As the final graduating class of Rossland Secondary School (RSS) made its exit last week, the Neighbourhoods of Learning (NOL) committee and Red Mountain Academy confirmed its plans to open an independent school in Rossland this fall.
“As a community we have adamantly expressed a demand for what the NOL has now produced,” said Mark Impey, chair of the Academy, in a letter circulating to Rossland homes. “Let’s make it happen.”
The Red Mountain Academy has committed to enrolling its nine international students, but to move forward, the independent school needs to have a minimum of 33 students from grades 8-12 enrolled by June 25.
“Rossland can make this happen (now) if the Red Mountain Academy contribution aligns with the expressed community interest,” he said.
The independent school would operate with an inquiry-based, personalized learning approach with teachers “on the ground” to work with students, said NOL committee chair Aerin Guy, to the Rossland News. “Such a school would offer a full-course program available to all learners, not just Rossland or Academy students, including a graduation program.
“There will be sports teams associated with the school, if the numbers permit it, as well as all of the other things people expect from a high school.”
After investigating an alternative to sending grades 10-12 students down the hill to Trail’s J.L. Crowe Secondary School, NOL secured partial government funding for its independent school.
There is an extra tuition of $1,000 per year to attend the school, although the fee will be waived to students with financial need.
“In subsequent years as our school grows, the cost for local students may lessen,” said Guy. “We’re looking to the community for an expression of interest, because we are moving ahead even if there are only eight kids.”
For those considering registering email info@redskiacademy.com for an application before Wednesday.