AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Rundle Academy & Rundle Studio vs. Meadowridge School

one-to-one comparison:

View Rundle Academy & Rundle Studio's full report
VS.
View Meadowridge School's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    4330 16 Street SW, Calgary, Alberta, T2T 4H9, Canada

    12224 240th Street, Maple Ridge, British Columbia, V4R 1N1, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1985

    1985

    Enrolment

    325

    660

    Grades

    4 to 12

    JK to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day, eSchool

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    Intellectual
    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
    Emotional
    The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    Intellectual
    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional

    Progressive, International Baccalaureate

    Curriculum pace

    Standard-enriched
    Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
    Accelerated
    The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).

    Academic culture

    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
    Rigorous
    A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.

    Avg. Class Size

    6 to 12

    16 to 18

    Special needs support

    Learning

    Gifted learner support

    Dedicated gifted school

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Play-based
    Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $19,200 to $21,400

    $28,400 to $38,400

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    9 to 12

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    36

    44

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    0%

    Day entry years

    4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Nov 01, 2021

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 4 - 12

    Yes: grades JK - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    information not available

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    Meadowridge is a school that intends to inspire and teach through direct, personal involvement. They don't just teach art, for example, they immerse students within it, including an on-site collection of works from an a-list of Canadian artists, including Tom Thomson, Kenojuak Ashevak, and Lawren Harris. The campus includes a forest, so the links between art and the environment are profound. Likewise, gardens and greenhouses provide an entrée to ecology and biology, and a design lab provides an entrée into technology and engineering. Those, and other examples, provide a unique balance between traditional learning and experiential learning. The buildings, the 27-acre campus, the proximity to Vancouver as well as a range of natural environments—all of it would rightly be the envy of any school. The ideal student is one who is curious, engaging, and prone to make use of the range of programs and opportunities that Meadowridge provides.
    Read The Our Kids Review of Meadowridge School

    Our Take

    Our Take

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Rundle Academy and Rundle Studio are both sister programs of Rundle College, which was established in 1985 and has rightly gained a strong reputation for offering quality academics and co-curriculars ever since. It offers Kindergarten through Grade 12, though is divided across three campuses: one for each of the primary, elementary, and high school programs. The school is able to provide a very broad range of programming while, at the same time, delivering a close, intimate student experience.

    The additional programs extend the offering in some key ways, though building on all the exising infrastructure, administration, staffing, and resources. Rundle Academy was created to support learners diagnosed with various learning disabilities, and provides student-centred instruction to meet their specific learning needs. Progressive classroom design is combined with a consistent, purpose-oriented architectural aesthetic.

    Rundle Studio is the online offering which, again, may be somewhat new, but nevertheless has a decades-long history of development to draw on. Parents and students who turn to Rundle are looking for an engaging, personalized learning. And that’s precisely what they find.

    View full report

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    Meadowridge is a school that intends to inspire and teach through direct, personal involvement. They don't just teach art, for example, they immerse students within it, including an on-site collection of works from an a-list of Canadian artists, including Tom Thomson, Kenojuak Ashevak, and Lawren Harris. The campus includes a forest, so the links between art and the environment are profound. Likewise, gardens and greenhouses provide an entrée to ecology and biology, and a design lab provides an entrée into technology and engineering. Those, and other examples, provide a unique balance between traditional learning and experiential learning. The buildings, the 27-acre campus, the proximity to Vancouver as well as a range of natural environments—all of it would rightly be the envy of any school. The ideal student is one who is curious, engaging, and prone to make use of the range of programs and opportunities that Meadowridge provides.

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    "Rundle Academy and Rundle Studio take pride in supporting learners to flourish in outstanding academic and extracurricular programs, specifically designed for students who have been diagnosed with a learning disability. All of our students benefit from small class sizes with highly trained staff, utilizing Individual Program Plans (IPPs) to support their learning. Our Academy students learn in person while the Studio is an innovative virtual program. NOTE: no direct support for students on the Autism spectrum."

    • Meeting the needs of students who have a diagnosed learning disability, with or without ADHD
    • Individual Program Plans (IPPs) for each student
    • Small class sizes
    • An energetic and dedicated team of educators
    • Premier academic program
    • Programs offered to further develop student leadership and character.
    • Co-curricular
    • Help our students to see what reaching their full potential looks like
    • Innovative, creative environment with personal technology devices provided to each student
    • Character development and citizenship is integrated into our curriculum

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    "Meadowridge is an IB Continuum World School supporting a growing community of learners from Junior Kindergarten through to Graduation. While we have enjoyed celebrating the outstanding academic results of our children, our greatest sense of pride comes from supporting their development into kind, morally bound, and critically thinking leaders in our society. We learn how to care for ourselves and others while embracing change and developing the confidence to not only meet the future but also to create it."

    • IB World School
    • Safe, caring learning environment
    • Coeducational
    • 100% post-secondary acceptance
    • International travel opportunities
    • Full-day Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten
    • Average class size of 16
    • Over 35,000 library resources
    • Fine arts, athletics & community service opportunities
    • Financial Aid & Student Scholarships available

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    "Our school’s mission, learning to live well, with and for others, in a just community, resonates with our community’s desire to do more. We are driven to have a profoundly positive impact on our world. We begin to accomplish this through a series of strategic and thoughtful experiences, often involving our natural environment, collaboration with our peers, and creative and critical problem-solving."

    Array

    What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What type of student is a good fit for your school?

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    "Meadowridge is a full IB continuum school from JK to Grade 12 and is nestled into the lush environment of Maple Ridge. Boasting 27 acres of land, the Meadowridge campus is home to a regenerative farm, greenhouses, gardens, a campground, and an outdoor cookhouse. Inside, the school's library holds more than 47,000 resources, there are many purpose-built classrooms and spaces, and various common areas for reading, studying, and collaborating."

    Array

    How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    "Meadowridge School began because of a group of parents decided against all odds to open an independent school in Maple Ridge, BC. This was in 1985, when Maple Ridge was seen as a small exurban community, more working-class than wealthy, with limited road and bridge infrastructures. Establishing a viable school in this area, at that time, was an audacious pursuit. These founding parents had the audacity - and the determination, hard work, and vision, too."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    If you have the opportunity to visit our schools or talk with a member of our community, you will invariably stumble upon the concept of R+. You may be wondering what R+ means, and in short, there is no definition, it is just, “The Rundle Way”.

    As we further explore what “The Rundle Way” is, it is the living embodiment of our values, Pathways to Learning, and the rich fabric of our Rundle program.

    At Rundle, our value statement is, “Together: Be Kind, Be Curious, Be Well”. We believe that these four values are the epitome of a fully realized, future-ready, person with passion and purpose. In our pursuit of these values, we are actively aiming for a pluralistic community who are committed to becoming a true culture of learning.

    R+ follows our uniquely developed Pathways to Learning model. At Rundle, the three distinct, yet intertwined, Pathways to Learning are character, academics, and co-curricular. In our schools, we will always believe, “character comes first.” We believe we have not done our job if our students do not develop an altruistic mindset with a view to making their communities, locally and abroad, a better place. We know we want our students to pursue any post-secondary learning of their choice, and to this end, academics are at the core of our program. Our faculty work with students to help them reach their individual potential and celebrate with them when they do. Finally, co-curriculars are the balance of our program. Rundle offers hundreds of outside-of-the-classroom experiences that allow our students to explore their passions and share their talents.

    Finally, the fabric of our Rundle program is steeped with a long history of school pride, engaged community members, and generosity. Over 2000 students have graduated from the Academy and College and our connected alumni network now extends around the world and across all industries. We often say, “Rundle is a K–Forever” program. The connections between our alumni, faculty, and staff remain strong and we continue to stay connected after graduation. We take great pleasure in celebrating our alumni’s success and we love to see where their journey takes them after Rundle. Our alumni’s contributions continue to enrich our school programs and our world!  

    Ultimately, R+ is a combination of all these factors. As much as we can aim to define it, it is when our values, Pathways to Learning, and fabric weave together as true excellence in each member of our school community, that we realize R+

    I invite you to further explore if R+ and Rundle is the right fit for your family and look forward to welcoming you to our Rundle community. 

    Sincerely,

    Jason Rogers Signature

    Jason Rogers
    Head of School
    Rundle College Society

    For those that I have not already met, my name is Scott Banack and I am the Headmaster at Meadowridge School. Having been part of the Meadowridge community since 2009, I have worked as a teacher, MYP coordinator, Middle School Principal, and most recently, the Deputy Headmaster. I have had the opportunity to work with many of the very dedicated and motivated Meadowridge community.

    Throughout my 20+ years of experience as an educator, I have been fortunate to work at some of the best schools around the world. I started my career in rural Alberta, before heading overseas to work as a teacher and administrator in Turkey, the Philippines, and Venezuela. My wife Stacy, a teacher at Meadowridge, and I decided to move closer to home after our son Ethan was born. That’s when we found Meadowridge and it has become such an important component of our family. We’ve brought both Ethan and our daughter, Adele, to Meadowridge and it has become their second home. Our connection runs deep, with great friends, colleagues, and peers. It is impossible to accurately describe in words, as this is a community that needs to be experienced to be truly appreciated.

    Our school’s mission, learning to live well, with and for others, in a just community, resonates with our community’s desire to do more. We are driven to have a profoundly positive impact on our world. We begin to accomplish this through a series of strategic and thoughtful experiences, often involving our natural environment, collaboration with our peers, and creative and critical problem solving. I am consistently impressed by our students not only for what they are able to accomplish, but the integrity, honor, pride, resilience, and compassion they display while reaching these great heights.

    I am energized by the thoughts of a new school year, filled with promise, excitement, nervous energy, and an eternal optimism. I look forward to building this community alongside all of you.

    Best regards,

    Scott Banack 
    Head of School

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Traditional

      MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

      Progressive


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Information not available

      MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

      International Baccalaureate


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.

      MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

      Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Not applicable

      MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

      Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Through our Pathways to Learning program, Rundle Studio encourages students to strive for success in academics, build solid character, and engage in co-curricular activities. Although we want students to achieve the highest level of academics, we believe that putting a focus on character development is paramount. Through social interactions, learning experiences, and co-curricular activities, students continuously develop their character. The Studio delivers curriculum from Alberta Education at grade level with no modifications.

      MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

      At Meadowridge our Mission, "learning to live well, with others and for others, in a just community" is woven into our everyday actions and interactions, both at the school and in the community at large. It acknowledges the importance of positive interactions with others and in seeking to better the community as we better ourselves. It looks beyond gender, nationality, culture and class. It guides staff, administration, students, and families to meet responsibilities and fulfill dreams. This atmosphere of respect combined with a challenging and enriched curriculum provides many opportunities for students to excel in the core academic subjects of reading, writing, math, science and areas of creative expression and original thought, such as performing and visual arts, athletics, clubs, computer science and drama - all of which foster a strong sense of personal and community pride and cause for celebration. We believe in the importance of celebrating our students’ individual and collective accomplishments as we strive for their highest level of performance, whatever their stage of development.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Mathematics


        Approach

        Approach

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Not applicable

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        Discovery Math


        Our take: math approach type

        Our take: math approach type

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Not applicable

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        Discovery Math turns traditional math on its head: it frequently begins by introducing a novel problem to students, and works its way back to “discovering” a method of solving the problem. The goal is to ground mathematical procedures and algorithms firmly in their applications, and to challenge students to think critically about how they might go about solving the problem right from the beginning. Generally associated with the “Chicago Math” movement and related Everyday Math textbooks (Grades 1 to 6), Discovery math spends less classroom time mastering established algorithms and more time getting students invested in and thinking critically about novel mathematical problems and concepts. In this sense Discovery Math aims to establish conceptual and applied understand before procedural understanding.


        What the school says about their math program

        What the school says about their math program

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Information not available

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Information not available

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Calculator policy

        Calculator policy

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Information not available

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Writing


        Approach

        Approach

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Not applicable

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        Process approach


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Not applicable

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        The process approach to teaching beginner writing aims to get students writing “real things” as much as possible and as soon as possible. The goal is to create the right environmental conditions to encourage a love of writing and a motivation to write well. With children invested in the writing process -- through assignments children find meaningful -- students are then given feedback on how they can improve.


        What the school says about their writing program

        What the school says about their writing program

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Information not available

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Not applicable


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Not applicable

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Information not available

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Not applicable

      • Fine Arts


        Approach

        Approach

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Not applicable

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        Equal Balance


        Our take: fine arts approach type

        Our take: fine arts approach type

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Not applicable

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.


        What the school says about their fine arts program

        What the school says about their fine arts program

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Information not available

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        Students learn through creative expression: they learn to understand and to analyze, to problem solve and to self-express, and they learn about themselves and about the world around them. So while they strum, or stroke, or sing, or sculpt, they learn a new way to express themselves and to convey feelings; students learn to become active meaning-makers, not passive recipients. By learning from the entire symbolic range, students evolve as both artist and learner of the arts. Through language and art, dance and movement, photography, film and multimedia, students learn to understand the essence of things – of people, culture, art, business, sciences, politics – and the nuances within them.


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Heavy integration

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        Medium integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Information not available

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        At Meadowridge, we teach our students to acquire, use, and share information in multiple forms and ways so that it becomes meaningful knowledge. When it comes to technology, every decision we make is based on learning, and that’s because technology cannot replace outstanding teaching or collaboration with other learners. We make sure that our school and our students control technology, and are not controlled by it.


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

      • Physical Education


        What the school says about their physical education program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Information not available

        MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

        In Physical and Health Education, students learn to appreciate the value of physical activity and develop the motivation for making healthy life choices. PHE is taught so that students learn about and learn through physical activity. Students develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes which contribute to a healthy and balanced lifestyle: a balanced lifestyle which includes a healthy body, mind, and spirit. PHE is a critical element of a well-rounded learner. All students in the PYP and MYP participate in PHE, and have additional requirements for physical and activity outside of their courses.

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Not applicable


      Our Take

      Our Take

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Not applicable

      MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

      Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Information not available

      MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

      Meadowridge’s Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten programs provide developmentally-appropriate learning opportunities for children to explore, socialize and grow in a safe and supportive environment. This takes place in a brand new, purpose built Early Childhood Education building. Children are active learners. In Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten children learn by exploration and problem-solving in a safe environment. Students learn through play and units of inquiry based on the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. This includes exploration into science, art, community, literacy, math, dance, athletics, technology, music, and more. Student develop skills through a hands-on activities where they can test, try, and engage.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Standard-enriched

      MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

      Accelerated


      Our Take

      Our Take

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.

      MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

      The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).


      What the school says

      What the school says

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Information not available

      MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture


      Our Take

      Our Take

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

      MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

      A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Information not available

      MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

      Our program challenges our students to find out more about their own beliefs, their own bodies, and society. When students graduate, they are equipped to deal with the complex realities of life, where critical thinking is at a premium. There are trained to question: how could this be better? In every unit of instruction, the children have a guiding question which they seek to answer. At the younger grades, the question is generated by the teacher, and smaller questions arise from the students. In older grades, we expect students to generate their own questions, and to personalize their learning.


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      "We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."

      MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

      MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.


      Secondary

      Secondary

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Emotional
      The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."

      MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."


      What the school says

      What the school says

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Information not available

      MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

      At the heart of all we do at Meadowridge is our Mission Statement, learning to live well, with others and for others, in a just community. We have created a just community within the school – one that is shaped by caring and trust, and also clarity of expectation and rules. We teach our students how to care for themselves, because a balanced and happy life is critical to their future. Students also learn to care for others, because a successful future is one in which common welfare is shared by all.

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:
    Resource Assistance:
    Withdrawal Assistance:
    Partial Integration:
    Full-Time Class:
    Forms of Support Environments Forms of Support Environments
    ADHD (moderate to severe)
    This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life.
    Learning disabilities
    Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)
    This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.
    Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
    This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.
    Dyscalculia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.
    Dysgraphia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.
    Language Processing Disorder
    This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
    Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)
    These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.
    Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit
    A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
    Developmental
    Autism
    Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).
    Asperger's Syndrome
    On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.
    Down syndrome
    his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.
    Intellectual disability
    This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).
    Williams syndrome
    This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
    Behavioral and Emotional
    Troubled behaviour / troubled teens
    roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.
    Clinical Depression
    This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.
    Clinical anxiety
    This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.
    Suicidal thoughts
    This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.
    Drug and alcohol abuse
    This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.
    Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
    This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
    Physical
    Multiple sclerosis
    This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.
    Cerebral palsy
    his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.
    Muscular dystrophy
    Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.
    Spina Bifida
    This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.
    Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)
    This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.
    Blindness
    Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."
    Deafness
    Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).
    Cystic Fibrosis
    Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.
    Multiple physical
    Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.

    Additional support

    Additional support

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    Information not available


    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Rundle Academy is one of the premier learning disability programs in Alberta, and provides exceptional educational opportunities for our students. Our individualized academic program encourages intellectual, social and personal growth of our students and is balanced by a variety of experiences in music, languages, technology and physical education. Our dedicated teachers utilize a variety of instructional approaches including assistive technology, differentiated instruction and assessment, and an intensive writing and reading program.

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    Information not available

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation


    What the school says

    What the school says

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    9 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    0%

    Day entry years

    4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Nov 01, 2021

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 4 - 12

    Yes: grades JK - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    Entrance exams required

    No

    Yes: grades K - 12

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    A Meadowridge student is one that seeks challenges in order to grow. We are not looking for perfect children, as they don't exist, but children who love to learn and explore the world. Children who are kind, willing to make mistakes and learn from them, and share their knowledge with others. From Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12, our students call Meadowridge home.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Visit the Admissions Portal, after you have attended a virtual information session and received an application code.

    • Create an account
    • Set your password
    • Start your application
    • Pay the $175 non-refundable application fee

    Attach supporting documents including:

    • a copy of the student’s psychoeducational evaluation and IPP
    • a copy of the student’s birth certificate or Canadian visa/landed immigrant form
    • a recent photograph of the student
    • the last two years of student’s final report cards
    • the most recent Provincial Achievement Test results (where applicable)

    Application Deadlines:

    • November 1: Siblings and Alumni Children
    • November 1: Early Decisions
    • After November 1: Remaining Decisions

    Applicants are accepted on an ongoing basis, but it is strongly suggested that applications be made in the fall as spaces are limited. Applications open each September for consideration for the following academic year.

    Rundle Academy has both university-track and non-university-track courses in its Senior High division. Therefore, SSAT scores are not required to ensure that students entering the Academy can complete a university-track program.

    We have two, one-time fees that are due upon initial acceptance. These fees help fund ongoing faculty training and facility improvements, program support, and enhancements which allow our faculty and staff to remain ahead of the curve on educational practices and trends. The chart below should help give further clarity around fee payments.

    Family Membership Fee

    A one-time, per family fee of $2,000 is paid upon acceptance for all new families joining Rundle. This fee is non-refundable, non-transferable and is separate from tuition payments.

    Student Facility Fee

    A one-time, per student fee of $2,000 is paid upon acceptance and applies to all new students of new families joining Rundle. All new families are required to pay this fee for each student joining Rundle. This fee is non-refundable, non-transferable, and is separate from tuition payments.

    MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL

    Our admissions process is set-up specifically to determine if your child and family are the right fit for Meadowridge. From inquiry to assessment, we strive to get to know each family and the potential of each child.

    There are tests and assessments but what it really comes down to is the fit. If your child will flourish at Meadowridge and your family will be an active member of our community is one of the most important factors for admissions.

    Not all children and families are the right fit for our school. Meadowridge is a challenging school. We offer a rigorous curriculum and have high expectations of our students, not just academically but intellectually and emotionally. We expect them to take our Mission to heart, "Learning to live well, with others and for others, in a just community".

    All Applicants:

    • Online Application Form completed 
    • Visit Us! Learn about our school and let us meet you at one of our Open Houses
    • Student Assessment/Observation
    • Family Meeting
    • Teacher Recommendation
    • Examples of student work/hobbies
    • Grade 1+ two report cards from previous years
    • Grade 6 to 11 SSAT

    Click here for a detailed list of requirements.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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