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Community & Culture

Island Pacific School uses the Grade 6–9 years to build confidence through independent research and public defence. Photo via Island Pacific School

March 4, 2026

When smart kids start playing small: How middle school shapes confidence

Brad Carter Community & Culture, Leadership & Philosophy, Student Life Bowen Island school, Island Pacific School, middle school academic growth, middle school education, private middle school BC, signs a child is unchallenged at school, social emotional development middle school, student engagement in middle school, supporting middle school learners, why middle school matters

The middle years shape a student’s confidence, ambition and voice, and the right environment can make all the difference

There is a quiet shift that often occurs in middle school and is rarely flagged during a parent-teacher interview.

It is not a crisis, a spike in behavioural issues or a sudden drop in grades. From the outside, everything looks fine.

It is something much more subtle: a slow lowering of ambition.

The child who once built elaborate projects hesitates. The student who once loved sharing their bold ideas becomes cautious. Participation narrows and the natural urge to take risks begins to fade.

In larger school environments, this is easy to miss.

By Grades 6 to 9, a student’s academic identity is taking shape. These formative years are when young people begin to understand who they are in a learning environment, whether they see themselves as leaders or followers, creators or consumers, or confident contributors or cautious observers.

They adapt to expectations around them. They learn what earns approval. They decide when to speak and when to stay quiet.

They adapt to the expectations around them. It works, and they get by, but it costs them their voice.

Shifting the middle school narrative

At Island Pacific School, a middle school serving Grades 6 to 9 on Bowen Island, the expectation is different. Students are challenged to think independently, speak publicly, defend their ideas and take meaningful responsibility for long-term work.

Through programs such as Masterworks, an eight-month independent project culminating in a public defence, Grade 9 students move beyond completing assignments to develop original work, articulate their thinking and publicly stand behind their ideas.

Confidence is not treated as a personality trait. It is treated as a skill, developed through practice.

Middle school is not a waiting room for high school. It is where habits, voice and academic identity take shape.

For families who sense their child is capable of more or quietly shrinking in a system that does not fully see them, it may be time to ask a different question about what these years are meant to build.

To register for the Mar 9 webinar at 7 pm, visit islandpacific.org/webinar-sign-up/

Because Middle School Matters
Island Pacific School is a co-educational IB World School on Bowen Island, B.C. For more than 30 years, it has focused exclusively on the developmental needs of students in Grades 6 through 9.

February 20, 2026

Why The Middle School Years Matter More Than You Think

A closer look at the subtle signs a child may need more challenge, connection and the right environment to grow.

Sometimes nothing is obviously wrong at school. Grades are acceptable. Teachers aren’t raising alarms. Your child says school is “fine.”

And yet, something feels different.

The child who used to come home full of questions now shrugs. Work gets done but without energy. Curiosity narrows. There’s no clear crisis but you can feel the flattening.

For some families, middle school is when that shift becomes visible.

These years, Grades 6 to 9, are not simply a bridge to high school. They’re a critical time of development when young people begin deciding who they are as learners and as people, when schools can either lose students or set them up for the rest of their lives.

At this time, if students feel unseen or unchallenged, they do adapt. They become efficient. They do what is required. They protect themselves socially. And yet from the outside, everything looks stable.

Inside, however, growth can quietly stall.

The right environment for growth

Island Pacific School is designed specifically for this stage of life. It’s not a scaled-down high school. It’s not an extension of elementary school.

Island Pacific School is a small, intentional community built exclusively for middle school students. Students are known well enough that changes are noticed early and addressed thoughtfully. Some students disengage because they are overwhelmed. Others because they are under-challenged. Both can look like indifference.

The job of the school is to understand which is which.

Students at Island Pacific School are encouraged and coached to think carefully, speak clearly and take increasing responsibility for their work within a structure of close relationships and consistent support.

In this smaller environment, away from the distractions of the city, students cannot disappear socially or academically. That visibility isn’t about pressure. It’s about belonging.

For families who sense that something in their child’s learning life has flattened, even if nothing dramatic has happened, it may be worth considering whether their environment fits the stage.

When “fine” doesn’t feel right

If you’re quietly wondering whether your child is thriving, or simply managing, this conversation is for you.

Join Head of School, Brad Carter, IPS faculty and current parents for a live online forum about the middle school years, where the conversation will cover how these years set students up for success in high school and beyond, what meaningful challenges really look like and when a change in environment can make sense. Bring your question, leave with clarity.

To register for the Feb 23 webinar visit https://bit.ly/4rm71M1 or through this QR Code:

To register for the Mar 9 webinar visit https://bit.ly/4kJp0to or through this QR Code:

Come visit us at Island Pacific School to learn more.

Book A Visit

May 21, 2025

What is Bring Down the Net?

Julia McCaig Academic Excellence & Achievements, Community & Culture BC school technology programs, Bring Down the Net campaign, cyber awareness week, digital literacy programs, internet safety education, responsible internet use, student-led initiatives, youth activism online

Saturday, May 31

Bowen Island Community School Field

Bring Down the Net is an exciting sports tournament hosted on Bowen Island by the Grade 9 students of Island Pacific School. The event is based around ultimate, creating a unique and engaging experience for participants and spectators alike.

The tournament aims to foster community spirit, encourage active participation, and develop sportsmanship among students. Teams will compete in a friendly yet competitive atmosphere, promoting collaboration, respect, and personal growth.

Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their skills, learn new techniques, and engage in healthy competition. Join us in celebrating the spirit of teamwork and athleticism at Bring Down the Net, where every point scored contributes to an unforgettable day of sports and camaraderie on Bowen Island.

The name itself symbolizes a meaningful concept: while sports such as volleyball, basketball, and soccer utilize nets that can divide players, Ultimate embraces inclusivity, ensuring that no barriers stand between participants. Join us in this extraordinary experience that not only emphasizes athletic skill but also celebrates unity and connection within the student community.

May 13, 2025

Community Talk: AI isn’t just changing the world—it’s changing our kids’ world.

Julia McCaig Community & Culture, Leadership & Philosophy AI in education, artificial intelligence awareness, BC school innovation, community education events, digital parenting tips, future of learning, student technology use, tech literacy for kids

May 29 | 6:30–7:30pm
Bowen Island Community Recreation Centre – Conference Room

What Every Parent Should Know About AI

AI isn’t just changing the world—it’s changing our kids’ world. From how they learn to how they’ll someday work, artificial intelligence is already reshaping the rules. But what is AI, really? How do we separate what’s hype from what’s real? And how do we talk to our kids—and our schools—about a technology that’s evolving faster than most of us can keep up?

In this relaxed, and jargon-free talk, we’ll break down what parents really need to know. You’ll learn how AI works in plain English, how it’s transforming education and the economy, and what it means for how our children think, learn, and grow. We’ll explore not just what AI is, but what it means—and how we can help our kids build the curiosity, wisdom, and skills they’ll need to thrive in a world where AI is part of everyday life.

This is your cheat sheet for the future—designed for parents who want to stay informed, not overwhelmed.

This talk is presented by Brad Carter, our Head of School. Brad leads AI-in-education initiatives for the Independent Schools Association of BC. A former Apple education executive and NoTosh consultant, Brad brings 25 years of global experience helping people and organizations navigate change. He’s a seasoned, dynamic speaker known for making complex trends clear, relevant, and engaging.

February 27, 2025

Owning Our Words

Julia McCaig Academic Excellence & Achievements, Community & Culture academic excellence, Blueprint For a Better World, community, cultivating humanity, culture, Dr. Ted Spear, education, educational innovation, equip, experiential learning, inquiry, Inspire, leadership, life-changing opportunities, middle school, middle school curriculum, middle school education, middle school students, responsibility, warranted confidence

Middle school students stand up and apologize for interrupting ? What’s that all about?

At Island Pacific School, learning isn’t just about mastering subjects—it’s about mastering ourselves. It’s about knowing how to listen, how to contribute, and, just as importantly, how to recover when we misstep.

That’s why, when a student interrupts someone—whether it’s a teacher or a classmate—they don’t just mumble “sorry” and move on. They stand up. They pause, acknowledge the interruption, and offer a simple, deliberate apology before sitting back down. It’s a small act, but one that carries real weight.

This isn’t about embarrassment or guilt—it’s about owning our actions. Words matter. Conversations are shared spaces, and learning how to respect them is just as important as learning how to speak up. By making this tiny but intentional gesture, students internalize something essential: respect isn’t just a concept, it’s a practice.

At IPS, we don’t just teach students how to think—we teach them how to move through the world with wisdom, courage, and integrity. And sometimes, that starts with standing up and saying, “I’m sorry, please continue.”

Find out more of what we are all about.

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February 20, 2025

Thirteen year old middle school students take a course in applied ethics? What’s that all about?

Julia McCaig Community & Culture, Leadership & Philosophy academic excellence, Blueprint For a Better World, cultivating humanity, culture, Dr. Ted Spear, education, educational innovation, equip, experiential learning, inquiry, intellectual curiosity, life-changing opportunities, middle school, middle school curriculum, middle school program, middle school students, teaching excellence

Thinking Deeply About Doing the Right Thing

We all want to do the right thing. We want our kids to do the right thing. But what does the right thing actually look like in any given situation? And why should we do it in the first place? These aren’t just abstract questions for philosophers in university classrooms—they’re real, everyday challenges. And at Island Pacific School, we believe middle school students are ready to take them on.

That’s why, in Grade 8, students take Senior Seminar, a course that introduces them to three of the most influential approaches to ethics—utilitarianism, Kantian deontology, and Aristotelian virtue ethics. They explore how each theory helps shape a moral compass and wrestle with one of the toughest questions of all: why be moral?

This isn’t a Ministry-mandated program. It’s a course Island Pacific School has developed and refined over the years because we believe ethical thinking isn’t just for college students—it’s for anyone who wants to navigate life with wisdom and integrity. The challenge is presenting these ideas in a way that respects students’ intelligence without oversimplifying the content. Our experience? Middle school students are more than capable of grappling with these concepts—and they love it.

Cultivating a moral sensibility is an essential part of a real education. And if you think 13- and 14-year-olds aren’t ready for it, we invite you to step into a Senior Seminar discussion and see for yourself.

Find out more of what we are all about.

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February 18, 2025

Middle school students clean their own school? What’s that all about?

Julia McCaig Community & Culture, Student Life academic excellence, Blueprint For a Better World, community, community service, cultivating humanity, culture, educational innovation, equip, experiential learning, leadership, life-changing opportunities, middle school, middle school education, middle school program, middle school students, responsibility, service, team, warranted confidence

No Janitors, No Problem: Taking Ownership of Our Space

At Island Pacific School, there’s no magical cleanup crew tidying up at the end of the day. The students clean their own school.

This is about responsibility, respect, and pride in our shared space. Sweeping floors, wiping tables, and taking out the recycling aren’t just chores; they’re a daily lesson in stewardship. Students learn that a community doesn’t run on the work of unseen hands—it thrives when everyone plays a part.

At Island Pacific School, we believe education isn’t just what happens in books. It’s about learning how to show up, contribute, and take care of what’s around you. Because when you’re responsible for cleaning your own mess, you think twice about making one in the first place.

Find out more of what we are all about.

February 11, 2025

Middle school students stand up at the beginning of each class? What’s that all about?

Julia McCaig Community & Culture, Student Life academic excellence, Blueprint For a Better World, community, cultivating humanity, culture, education, educational innovation, experiential learning, inquiry, intellectual curiosity, leadership, life-changing opportunities, middle school, middle school curriculum, middle school matters, middle school program, middle school students, responsibility, student life, warranted confidence

Standing Up for Something Bigger

At the start of every class at Island Pacific School, something small—but deeply intentional—happens. As the teacher steps into the room, students rise to their feet. It’s not about formality or obedience. It’s a signal, a ritual, a quiet but powerful moment that sets the tone: We’re here, together, for something that matters.

On the surface, it’s an expression of respect—an acknowledgment of the teacher’s role in guiding the learning ahead. But it’s more than that. It’s the beginning of a two-way exchange. The teacher meets each student’s eyes and says something simple but meaningful: “Thanks for being here. Thanks for bringing your heart and mind to this class.” It’s a recognition—not just of attendance, but of presence, of effort, of willingness to engage.

At its core, this small act embodies something much bigger: the shared purpose of education itself. Learning isn’t just about absorbing facts; it’s about refining our ability to think, reason, create, and act with intention. It’s about becoming fuller, wiser versions of ourselves. This daily moment, brief but deliberate, is a reflection of that commitment.

It’s easy to overlook something so simple. But like all great rituals, its power lies in its repetition. Day after day, class after class, students and teachers step into something greater than themselves. And that’s what makes it more than a routine—it’s a reminder of why we’re here.

Find out more of what we are all about.

April 4, 2024

Kari Marentette, Superhero

Julia McCaig Community & Culture, Teacher Features Bowen Island teachers, community school staff, education heroes, independent school leadership, inspiring educators BC, IPS faculty spotlight, Kari Marentette IPS, teacher appreciation stories

Embracing Adventure and Growth: A Journey with Kari Marentette at Island Pacific School

At Island Pacific School (IPS), education is more than just lessons within four walls; it’s about embarking on journeys of discovery and growth. For Middle School teacher Kari Marentette, every day is an opportunity to guide students through wild, fun, and wacky experiences that leave lasting impressions.

Reflecting on her tenure at IPS, Kari fondly recalls the vibrant spirit of dressing up in costumes for house lunches or ultimate tournaments. These moments, she emphasizes, are not just about fun but also about fostering camaraderie and school pride. One particular highlight was witnessing their students emerge victorious at Saber Fest in 2023, a memory that still evokes a sense of pride and accomplishment.

When asked about her affinity for teaching Middle School students, Kari’s passion shines through. “They’re still curious about the world,” she notes, highlighting the pivotal phase of self-discovery that defines the Middle School years. Guiding students through this journey, she explains, is immensely rewarding, fueled by their enthusiasm for learning and innate sense of fun.

What sets IPS apart, according to Kari, is its unwavering commitment to fostering relationships. “We take the time to truly know each student,” she emphasizes. With smaller class sizes, the school can tailor its approach to meet individual learning needs, celebrating the uniqueness of each student along the way.

School excursions play a pivotal role in enriching the educational experience at Island Pacific School She notes the value of experiential experiences, critical time spent learning outside the school, such as our camp, hiking and kayak trips and excursions.
Beyond mere trips, these excursions offer students opportunities to bond, create lasting memories, and explore new horizons. Whether it’s navigating the streets of Quebec or delving into the cultural tapestry of Vancouver, these experiences leave an indelible mark on students’ lives.

“The Quebec 2023 trip was amazing”, says Kari “It was so fun to travel with the students and see them in an out-of-school environment for an extended period of time. We created many memories and faced challenges that allowed us to bond as a group. I got to watch kids try escargot for the first time, watch them figure out how to lead us through the city using public transportation, and speak to people in restaurants in French.”

In addition to her role as an educator, Kari shares insights into the humorous side of school life through “Things Teachers Say.” From Jen’s cheerful “Hola Chicas!” to Adrian’s upbeat “Good news people, it’s time for class!” and Scott’s gentle reminder to “Be Kind!,” these phrases embody the ethos of positivity and camaraderie that permeates Island Pacific School.

Julia McCaig
Director of Community Engagement
Island Pacific School
[email protected]

March 6, 2024

The North Shore Student Experience: The Adventures of the 20-min Ferry Ride to Island Pacific School!

Julia McCaig Community & Culture, Student Life BC independent school life, daily student adventures, ferry ride to school, Island Pacific School experience, North Shore to Bowen Island, student commute stories, unique school journeys, West Vancouver education

At Island Pacific School, we believe in fostering independence, responsibility, and self-reliance from a young age.

One unique aspect of our school experience is the daily ferry commute for middle school students traveling from the North Shore to Bowen Island, where our school is located. This 20-minute ferry ride isn’t just a means of transportation; it’s an opportunity for our students to embark on a daily adventure. From the moment they step onto the ferry, they’re encouraged to navigate their journey with confidence, learning valuable life skills along the way.

Through this commute, students develop a sense of independence as they manage their time and resources effectively. They become responsible for their commute, ensuring they arrive at school punctually and prepared for the day ahead.

Moreover, the ferry commute provides a unique setting for our students to connect and bond with their peers. Starting from as young as 10-11 years old, they form friendships that last a lifetime, sharing experiences and creating memories during their daily travels.

Rest assured, the ferry commute is not only safe but also an enjoyable experience for our students. Under the supervision of our dedicated staff, they embark on this journey with excitement and enthusiasm, eagerly anticipating the adventures that await them on Bowen Island.

Casey James
Director of Communications
Island Pacific School
Email Casey