Relay

I would like to share my experience as a parent of a former student at Elkridge Elementary School. While the school may have strengths in academic programming, our family's experience raised serious concerns about equity, inclusion, and the overall treatment of students from diverse racial backgrounds.During the one year my daughter attended, we observed patterns that suggested unequal treatment. As a Black family, we felt that our concerns were not taken seriously, and that our child was not given the same level of support or encouragement as some of her peers. It seemed that students from certain backgrounds — particularly white students — were prioritized and better accommodated.We were also troubled by the lack of diversity among the teaching and administrative staff. With a staff demographic that appears to be overwhelmingly white, it was difficult not to feel that cultural understanding and sensitivity were lacking. This became especially apparent in how behavioral or academic concerns involving students of color were handled.Additionally, many staff members live in the surrounding neighborhood, which may contribute to an insular environment. This can sometimes create unconscious bias, whether intentional or not, especially toward families who are new, different, or from underrepresented communities.Due to these challenges, we ultimately decided to move our daughter to a different school where we felt she would be better supported and valued. We hope that Elkridge Elementary — and the broader school system — takes steps to invest in diversity training, inclusive hiring practices, and open dialogue with families of all backgrounds.Every child deserves a fair, respectful, and welcoming educational experience. We sincerely hope that improvements can be made so that future students and families do not face the same challenges.This country has the potential to be truly great — but only if we continue to confront and eliminate racism in all forms, including in our schools. Our children deserve better, and we can all do better.

All three of my children attended AES and absolutely loved it! The teachers and staff are so dedicated and genuinely care about the students even after graduation! My only complaint is the drop and pick up congestion. I wish the parents cared more about following the rules and not parking in front of the no parking zones in front of the library. It inhibits cars from pulling into the car rider pick up line and buses pulling in. Also parents park, then walk their child across the street making it dangerous to pull out. Why not just use the car rider loop?

My son attended this school for three years under the leadership of his teacher and later Teaching Principal, Ms. Gayle Hyde. Before Ms. Hyde’s arrival, the school was struggling — lacking programming, motivation, structure, and growth opportunities for students. Through her dedication, leadership, and innovative teaching style, she brought life back into the school.She introduced programs, organized fundraisers, created opportunities for students, and worked tirelessly to build the school into something families could feel proud of — often with little to no support from superiors or fellow staff members. Much of the positive growth and energy seen within the school can be credited to her hard work and commitment.It is deeply concerning that Ms. Hyde was not asked to return. In addition, there are unresolved concerns regarding fundraiser proceeds that were reportedly intended for student programs and equipment, yet families have not seen those promised improvements take place. Tuition costs have increased without noticeable improvements in staffing, programming, or resources.The school continues to operate with minimal staff, creating concerns for both student learning and staff wellbeing. Furthermore, there appears to be a lack of inclusiveness and transparency from the board and administration.My child remained enrolled largely because of Ms. Gayle Hyde’s exceptional teaching style, leadership, and genuine dedication to her students. With her departure, I no longer feel comfortable continuing my son’s education at this school. Unfortunately, based on my family’s experience and ongoing concerns, I would not recommend this school to others.

This school is more of an International school than a Canadian school when majority of their staff and teachers are international temporary workers. Their teachers are recruited from out of the country and are hired as teachers but with no BC teaching license. They leave every year making it a high turnover rate school. Less than half of the staff are Canadian and Canadian certified teachers. A fellow parent and I transferred our kids to another school with a more stable Canadian certified and consistent staff.

This school is involved in a lawsuit for a teacher drugging students with melatonin for months without parental consent.