10 GOOD REASONS WHY IT IS
IMPORTANT FOR PARENTS AND ISLANDERS TO SUPPORT THE CORTES ISLAND SCHOOL.

Reason # 3.
Children learn important social skills in school, as well as teamwork, tolerance and respect for diversity.
As was noted in Point 2, discussed last week, the very real possibility exists that our Island's public school could be closed, or the number of teaching staff reduced to levels that will sharply diminish the quality of education offered on Cortes. Our public schools represent society's finest meeting place. There are no other places in Canada where people from diverse backgrounds regularly come together for a significant period of time during which they must learn to work together, respecting the differences among them. Cortes School allows our children to escape the natural isolation that occurs as a result of our rural location. Practicing social skills, improving the level of physical and intellectual tolerance and forging friendships with other kids otherwise out of reach helps build a better sense of community.Many island residents came here by choice, and our public school represents a unique opportunity to improve the choices we offer our children. In the name of choice, the greatest educational gift we can offer our children is the freedom to choose between more than one social alternative.Public school reduces educational and income inequalities. When schools segregate a community along social, economic, religious or cultural divides, the potential exists to tear apart the social fabric.Islanders unable to afford the time, or cost of private education deserve a local public school for their children. The ultimate cost of having to move away to provide for their children's future will change Cortes forever. The choices we make today will have long term consequences for tomorrow's students and their families.The choice, and voice in deciding the future of this important cultural and educational institution rests with every parent and every islander.If you are not already actively doing so, please consider supporting our Cortes Island School.


Cortes Island Parent Advisory Council
c/o Cortes Island School

Box 179

Manson’s Landing, B.C.

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