École H. S. Grenda Middle School opened September, 2021. In the opening year, we were delighted to welcome two grades of students (grades 6 and 7) from our Lake Country feeder schools, Davidson Road Elementary, Oyama Traditional, and École Peter Greer. Nestled amongst orchards, parks, and lakes, the school has been built to embrace the natural beauty that surrounds it with its large windows and wide open spaces. In the 2022 - 2023 school year we expanded to include grades 6 to 8 and this will be our final school configuration.
School Organization & Structures
Upon registration, learners are welcomed into one of the 4 learning communities (Ocean, Lake, Waterfall, Creek) at HMS. Each of these learning communities are comprised of grade 6, 7, and 8 students , support teachers, and classroom teachers. Students start their day in community in mixed grade groups and are regrouped multiple times during the day depending upon students areas of strength and growth, students areas of passions, and grade level areas of study. It is common for students to be in mixed grade groupings for inquiry projects, exploratory courses, and integrated studies. Community teachers take the lead role in their academic areas of expertise and work collaboratively to design high level tasks that develop students' competencies and foundational skills. As students are in their most formative years, we believe and research supports, that when students are in community they are able to develop a strong sense of belonging, build healthy trusting relationships, and continue to grow both intellectually and socially.
Sample Student Timetable
Each community at HMS has a general timetable for the school year that includes dedicated time in the gymnasium, exploratory rooms, and community. Below is a sample schedule for the upcoming 2024 - 2025 school year. Each communities timetable allows for extended time blocks for students to engage in deep learning through inquiry while developing their foundational numeracy and literacy skills.
Passion Exploration
Every Wednesday, students at HMS are regrouped into their Passion Exploration groups. Twice a year students have the option of choosing an area of passion to study. These choices are developed from data that has been collected about areas of study they would like to explore. Below are some photos of some of the amazing passions students are engaged in. Passion selection booklets are shared with students and families so that they can see the upcoming offerings at HMS.
Exploratory Experiences
Students have the opportunity to explore a variety of Exploratories which may include Food Studies, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, and Outdoor Education. Below are a few photos of students in action.
If you would like to learn more about HMS, please do not hesitate to email the principal, Mr. Rob Aviani (rob.aviani@sd23.bc.ca) or the school's inbox (hms@sd23.bc.ca).