Open boundaries

The provincial government recognizes that children should be enrolled in schools that best fit their interests, skills and abilities. That's why the government has made it possible for students to attend any school they want, as long as there's space.

Creating more 'magnet schools'

Every child is unique. That's why the government is encouraging school boards to meet the diverse needs of their students by offering specialty programs or developing 'magnet schools' whenever possible. Some districts are already offering specialized programs, such as fine arts, international baccalaureate, Montessori, online learning, First Nations studies and Mandarin immersion. Opening boundaries for more school choice gives B.C. students more opportunities to excel.

Open boundaries mean greater school choice

Open boundaries give every child the chance to attend a school that suits his or her particular needs, anywhere in the province, as long as space permits.

Catchment areas protect local schooling

The government has amended the School Act to require school boards to establish catchment areas around schools in their districts. This means local children get first consideration for places at their neighbourhood school. After local children are placed, the school is open to any child from around the province.

• Choosing a School in British Columbia - A Checklist for Parents
• Developing More Choices Within the K-12 Public Education System
• Un plus grand choix
  au sein du système d’éducation publique de la maternelle à la 12e année
• Le choix d’une école en C.-B.
  Petit aide-mémoire à l’intention des parents