Moving to a new town and deciding on schools can be STRESSFUL!

Fernie has a few options to chose from for Elementary School options, and without being too opinionated I’ll share with you what I know.

Kootenay Discover School offers different models of instruction for learners who are looking for alternatives to the Brick and Mortar setting.  Located just beyond the downtown section of Main Street in Fernie, this newly renovated building offers online and blended learning school.   Visit their website for more information:  https://www.sd5.bc.ca/school/kds/Pages/Kootenay%20%20Learning%20Campus.aspx#/=

SOPHIE MORIGEAU SCHOOL is Fernie’s Francophonie K – grade 7 school.  Sophie Morigeau School is committed to developing students’ cultural identity and promoting the development of a French-speaking community.  The school is located in Fernie’s Airport subdivision and is home to additional programming as well as Fernie’s best soccer pitch (according to ME anyway! 😉 Interested in learning more?  https://sophiemorigeau.csf.bc.ca/

The Fernie Academy is an independent school located on Main Street.  TFA offers learning for students K – 12, as well as specialized programs in Hockey, Volleyball and Dance.  For more information visit their website:  https://thefernieacademy.ca/

Ecole Isabella Dicken Elementary is Fernie’s largest school for students K – grade 6.  EIDES is currently renovating to add more classroom space, 80 student spots, I believe.  The school has two large playgrounds to accommodate primary and intermediate students respectively, and shares it’s field with Fernie Secondary School.  Isabella Dicken offers a Late Immersion Program for children grades 4 and up, in addition to it’s all encompassing athletic offerings.  EIDES has a phenomenal staff as well as excellent PAC support, and if you haven’t guessed it by now, is my family’s school of choice 😉 My two eldest daughters have moved onto Fernie Secondary, but both were enrolled in the French Immersion Program and played multiple school sports during their time at EIDES.  Between my three girls we’ve had a total of seven teachers there, and we’ve adored each of them – not to mention the top notch administrative staff!  Ok  – I should rein this in – if you would like to learn more, visit their website:  https://www.sd5.bc.ca/school/ides/Pages/default.aspx#/=

I have my fingers crossed for a Middle School in Fernie – we are in NEED of an auditorium and what better place than a new school!  Here’s some info on the potential of Fernie’s future middle school:  https://www.thefreepress.ca/news/school-district-envisages-high-capacity-middle-school-for-fernie/

I’ll save my secondary school information for another day. I hope this info helps you gather the information your looking for if you’re working on a decision.

~ Mariah.