Kimberley Independent School

Where do I begin with how much we love this school? Our kids have been attending KIS for two years now. Every day there is something exciting happening that makes them happy to get up and go: swimming, climbing, gymnastics, outdoor adventures, music classes, skiing, science projects, special guests... The school community is wonderful and you can sense how everyone, from students, to staff, to the principal, to parents pitch in. And nothing beats starting your mornings with a daily assembly and the principal on guitar. :) Prior to this, our eldest child was in a top-rated public school in a big city. Although it was a fabulous school with excellent teachers, we found that there was very little one-on-one time because of the large class sizes. We'd find out about issues weeks or months after concerns were noted, be it related to learning or personal relationships (bullying). At KIS, we've found that any issues are quickly raised and the teachers make every effort to provide an environment in which each child can grow. The teachers truly care: on a Friday when we received some tough news, our kid's teacher called in the evening to make sure everything was okay and to reassure us. We feel we struck gold with this school in our little mountain town.

We are so grateful to have had KIS as an option in our community. The combination of small classes and incredible staff has served our child repeatedly over the last 5 years. One of the schools greatest assets in the last 2 years is Scott McInnis in the role of administrator, he cares. We love the schools focal point on the kids and how cohesive the staff are, it's obvious they all love working together. A happy staff = happy kids that enjoy learning. Thank you!

unique learning with small class sizes and lots of personal attention from teachers

My children have attended KIS for 6 years and it has been incredible. They have thrived in the small class sizes (max 16) and I cannot say enough about the incredible teachers, EA's and principal. The outdoor learning component, guitar classes and hands on learning means that my children look forward to going to school every single day. This school is full of heart and I am so grateful for the experiences my children have had.

Everything about this school has been a positive experience for our family. Our daughter has attended for 5 years and has had a great experience. The teachers are hands on and there is so much outdoor and experiential learning. The kids utilize their community and surrounding area as their classroom. The kids ski, bike, hike and in the fall and summer do a full day of learning outside every week. My daughter hates to miss school and is enthusiastic to go every day. The hands on parent involvement is a part of the reason we love it. Parents and their kids are encouraged to take ownership of their space. Every contribution made by parent, students and community members is recognized and appreciated by all the staff. Everyone who works at this school is here because they WANT to be and it shows. I cannot imagine a better place to prepare our daughter for high school. We are forever grateful.

What is exciting about KIS is that it provides opportunities and choice for families and their children. Ultimately, it is amazing that a community the size of Kimberley has educational options for students. When options are provided then more students needs are met. KIS, with small class sizes, is able to meet the needs of a great range of learning styles and this is a gift for all the children that attend. Students have exposure to many great learning experiences including an outdoor eduction program, multiple field trips, community involvement, and Flex-Fridays (where children have choice in the learning they would like to do). The staff are top notch and the principal is very committed to the school, it's staff and families.

A delightful, wholesome, balanced, supportive place to work for and a beautiful place to connect within the community of Kimberley.