Many of you have asked me about my kids' school. Why traditional? What does that mean? Is it a public school?
Well, when Nathan was about to enter Kindergarten we knew for sure that we didn't want him going to the school closest to our home at the time. It was an 'inner city' school and we just weren't comfortable with the environment. So we decided to explore our options. Private was out of the question due to the cost, so the next few choices were: French Immersion, Traditional or an out of bounds school in the country. After attending an info session on the French Immersion program we had lots to think about. After a few discussions we decided we were not totally comfortable with Nate being taught in another language. We would have no idea what was being taught to him as we both only went to 11th grade in French. It would be cool to bilingual but at what cost? We were not convinced.
Then my friend (who's kids were in the traditional school) raved about how wonderful it was and that had my interest piqued. I had cousins who had attended with glowing reports as well. The school is a part of the public system and referred to as a 'school of choice'. My biggest reservation was the distance. The school is a good 20 minute drive away from town. But after the information night we had a great feeling about the school and structure. Next hurdle to be crossed was the waiting list......long story short, we camped out for four nights on a country road to be sure to get the kids enrolled!
So now we've been there five years and have not once regretted our decision. It's a great school and the kids are simply thriving.
Ten Tenets of Traditional
1. Consistent structured approach that maximizes class time.
2. A strong focus on academic achievement.
3. Teacher directed instruction.
4. Regular skills assessment.
5. An emphasis on solid literacy skills.
6. A regular homework policy.
7. A clearly defined code of behaviour.
8. A dress code.
9. A safe environment.
10. Parents as partners.
Any questions class? Please stand to ask your question!
4 comments:
That was really good info. I always kind of wondered about traditional schools.
Thanks, Rachel. That was good to get the low-down. We have one just starting up on a trial basis here in Victoria. We'll have to check it out this year.
I MISS YOUR SCHOOL!!! I wish we were still there! Even within Traditional it all depends on the staff what the school's atmosphere is like. So glad to hear you are enjoying it!
Where are your girls at this year Theresa?
We have a new principal this year and she has been amazed at the school so far. She can't believe that when she came to her first assembly she didn't have to quiet the students!
Yeah...I do love King...LOVE it!
My kids are thriving there.
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