Frequently Asked Questions
Whytecliff Agile Learning Centres
Langley & Burnaby, BC
Academic Program
What curriculum does the school follow?
We follow the regular New BC Curriculum — the same curriculum used in public schools across the province.
How is inclusive education integrated into the curriculum?
Our inclusive approach is woven throughout everything we do:
- Students are given choices in how they demonstrate their learning
- We work cross-curricular to combine topics and make learning meaningful
- Accommodations are relevant to each student’s learning challenges and diagnoses
- Students are taught customized strategies to overcome challenges
- Assessment is naturally woven into the learning process
- Students help direct their own learning plans
What is the staff-to-student ratio?
Our current ratio is about 1:5.33 and always less than 1:6. This small size allows us to truly know each student and provide highly personalized support.
What electives and higher-level courses are offered?
Electives (customized each year based on student interest): Photography, Electronics, Robotics, Foods, Coding, Art, Music, Woodwork, Outdoor Education, Work Experience, Youth Train in Trades, and more.
Higher-level courses we have offered include:
Chemistry 11 & 12, Physics 11 & 12, Life Science 11, Environmental Science 11 & 12, Anatomy & Physiology 12, Physical Geography 12, Geology 12, Earth Science 11, Science for Citizens 11, Specialized Science 12, Pre-Calculus Math 11 & 12, Foundations Math 11 & 12, Calculus 12, Workshop Math 11 & 12, Composition 11 & 12, New Media 11 & 12, Creative Writing 11 & 12, Literary Studies 11 & 12, English Studies 12, Career Life 11 & 12, 20th Century History 12, BC First Peoples 12.
Specific courses running each year depend on student interest and enrollment. We work hard to offer the courses students need for graduation and their post-secondary goals.
School Culture & Environment
How does the school foster a culture of inclusion and respect?
Our entire program is built around relationships and community. Every student and staff member signs an agreement that they will help others grow and feel safe. Staff intentionally design opportunities for connection, and we place strong emphasis on emotional and physical safety, inclusivity, and respect.
How do you prevent and address bullying?
We build positive mentoring relationships between students and staff. We use natural consequences and restorative practices rather than punitive measures. Because our community is small, staff know every student well and can address issues early and effectively.
Student Well-Being & Support
What mental health support does the school provide?
- A caring, respectful community of peers and staff
- A dedicated quiet space for emotional regulation
- A safe, welcoming, non-judgmental environment
- Wellness integrated naturally into our curriculum
- Flexible scheduling and self-paced coursework
Are there counsellors or psychologists on campus?
We do not have dedicated on-site counsellors or psychologists, but we have trained youth workers and all staff are compassionate, non-judgmental listeners. We actively help families connect with external counselling and psychological resources when needed.
Are there in-house specialists (speech therapists, OT, etc.)?
We do not have in-house therapists, but we welcome collaboration with any specialists already supporting your child. All staff receive ongoing specialized training to better support diverse learners.
Progress, Assessment & Graduation
How do you assess and track student progress?
Assessment is mostly formative and ongoing through conversations, self-assessment, demonstrations, and hands-on projects. We track progress through detailed case notes and emphasize the learning process over final products.
Are there regular parent-teacher conferences?
Yes. We hold scheduled conferences when creating IEPs and before each report card. We also send weekly updates and communicate monthly. Parents are always welcome to reach out for additional meetings (Zoom or in-person).
What kind of diploma do students receive?
The majority of students graduate with a regular Dogwood Diploma. In rare cases where an Evergreen Certificate or Adult Dogwood is more appropriate, we consult with families.
Where have alumni gone after graduating?
Our alumni have gone on to post-secondary programs at KPU, Douglas College, SFU, UBC, TRU, BCIT, Capilano University, and more. Many have also found permanent employment in trades, BC Ferries, construction, sales, landscaping, and other fields.
Admissions
What is the admissions process and how do you determine fit?
Families typically share recent IEPs, report cards, and psycho-educational assessments. We review these documents and often speak with previous schools. If it looks like a potential fit, we invite the student and family for a tour and conversation (in person or via video). Because we are a small, close-knit community, we consider how each new student will integrate with our existing group of learners.
Tuition & Financial Support
What are the current tuition fees?
Program fees range from $9,550 – $22,250 per year for BC students (current rate for 2026-2027 year). Fees vary depending on a child’s special needs designation, Ministry funding, and any additional 1-on-1 support required. Flexible payment plans are available.
Is financial aid or scholarship support available?
Yes, in some cases. We can help connect families with bursaries and funding through organizations such as the CKNN Kids Fund and Variety Club (especially for families earning under $75,000). We also assist with applications for other scholarships and donor-supported bursaries. A portion of fees may be tax-deductible in certain situations — please contact us for details.
Transportation
Does the school provide transportation?
We offer limited van transportation for families who truly need it. Staff pick up and drop off students, sometimes from home and sometimes at hub locations. Space is limited and priority is given to students who travel the furthest.
Family Engagement & Community
How are families involved in the school community?
Families are essential partners. We collaborate closely on IEPs and communicate about anything affecting a student’s well-being. We host events throughout the year so families can connect and support one another. Many families form carpool networks and lasting friendships through our community.
What extracurricular activities are available?
Activities are flexible and driven by student interest. We run various interest-based clubs and creative groups (such as games, music, art, drama, and more). We also do lots of spontaneous games, card games, creative projects, and regular field trips and outings based on what the students want to do. We’re always open to trying new things suggested by our community.
College, Career & Future Success
How do you prepare students for college and the workforce?
We offer campus tours (KPU, BCIT, SFU, etc.), dual-credit opportunities, career fairs, paid work experience, MyBlueprint career planning, guest speakers from many fields, a Graduation Capstone project, study skills support, and help with scholarships and applications.