Getting a Broader view of BC's Education System

I'm starting to get a more realistic view of how the schooling system works. I spent Wednesday at an Alternative School called Glacier View which is fantastic. The students are not obliged to attend classes, but are encouraged to come for at least half a day each day. The students are there because they couldn't fit the normal system there were either too disruptive, not socially adapted or just didn't fit the conventional learning style. The learning pace is intended to meet each individual's needs.

The students I saw were intelligent people. Who often felt they weren't as smart as the kids in regular schools but I don't agree. These students are the real ones, they already each have a story to tell and so much to give. Wednesdays are workshop days where there are lots of activities, and in the afternoon's I've joined a Social Justice course with a group of 8 students who each have their own views on the topics discussed which lead to rich debates. I plan to spend each Wednesday at this school, creating some workshops in the morning and attending Social Justice courses in the afternoon.

At the moment there are strikes across BC, so I decided to hit the road and travel for a week. At the moment I am in Victoria meeting with University students who are part of 'Underground Curriculum' - A student led, non credit group who are trying to improve their own education and provide a platform to share ideas, skills and information to other students and the general public. It is great to meet these young people who are passionate and motivated to help change our society.

Tomorrow I'm heading off to Salt Spring Island to meet with the Superintendent and see how their schools function. After that, Vancouver and then to see Quest - a university offering quite a unique way of teaching.