Elementary Programs Introduction: Grades K-8
The Elementary Campus, K to 8, is located at 4828 W. Saanich Road, only a kilometer north of the main SIDES location.
During normal school hours, please direct any queries to 479-7125 . Click here for elementary staff locals.The South Island Distance Education elementary program matches the BC Ministry of Education curriculum and includes current and relevant supporting resources. Because we are a BC public school, there is no cost to bC residents for the program.
Click here to view a brief video of what the SIDES elementary program is all about.
SIDES Program Options
To meet the needs of all students, SIDES is continuing to offer a variety of program options. SIDES teacher will be happy to work with you and your child in planning a program that assures a successful learning journey.
* Structured Program: using Ministry-approved learning materials provided by the SIDES teacher.
* Unstructured Program: using learning materials that you choose in collaboration with the SIDES teacher.
* Blended Program: using both Ministry-approved learning materials as well as learning materials of your choice, in collaboration with the SIDES teacher.
SIDES Weekly Classes (on-site classes)
SIDES will be offering weekly classes for students from Grades K through 7. These classes will be held Tuesday morning for a five-week period each term, covering various aspects of the curriculum including P.E., Art, Music, Drama, Science, and French.
Virtual Classes
SIDES will be offering virtual classes in a variety of curricular topics. These classes provide an opportunity for your child to chat live, via the computer, with his/her teacher and classmates. These classes will be held throughout the year on a variety of topics including: writing skills, computer skills, book club, story time, spelling bee, author visit, and more. Students can check their email and SIDES On-Line for the Vclass topics and schedules.
SIDES Activities
SIDES will be offering a variety of activities throughout the year. A community-based activity will be held approximately once a month. These activities will include our Terry Fox Run and Corn Roast, skating, bowling, the SIDES Talent Show, and the Victoria Symphony Concert, along with participation in programs at Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary, Goldstream Park, The Centre of the Universe, local museums and more.
SIDES Support for Learning
SIDES offers Support for Learning funds for each student enrolled by September 30th. The intent is to provide additional methods of support for student learning. This support can be paid only to an approved vendor or organization. The Support for Learning activities:
- 1) must align with grade-appropriate learning outcomes and student learning plan, as approved by a SIDES teacher.
- 2) need to be documented on a “Support for Learning Authorization” form.
- 3) can be the loan of a SIDES computer.
All elementary programs include:
A feeling of belonging
* guidance and support from BC-certified teachers
* frequent contact with teachers and classmates through email, phone, face-to-face meetings, and virtual 'live' classrooms
* opportunities for students to participate in group activities such as educational outings, school picnics, talent shows, bike rodeos, and more.
Support for learning
* all learning materials are provided, covering all subjects
* ongoing feedback and evaluation of student work
* assessment of student progress through formal reporting as required by Ministry guidelines
* an Individualized Learning Plan that best suits student needs, including a plan for those students with special needs, learning challenges, and exceptional abilities
* a flexible program to accommodate student needs, learning styles, and home situations
* a program for those travelling the world or living temporarily away from home
* support for the use of technology for communication and learning
* financial support for approved Fine Arts, Physical Education, Technology and/or educational activities that support the Prescribed Learning Outcomes in the student's Individualized Learning Plan. This support may include the loan of a computer
Kindergarten to Grade 4
* the program is made up of thematic units called modules that cover all subject areas, except Mathematics, which is a separate program
* each unit includes a module guide for the parent, outlining each day of learning
* a variety of resources relating to each theme are provided with each module. These resources include textbooks, storybooks, non-fiction books, and CDs
For Grades 5 to 7
* the program consists of separate learning materials for each subject area
* learning modules are provided for Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, Math, French, and Art
* Spanish Level I is now offered!
* the modules include clearly-laid-out lessons and assignments electronically on SIDES Online. Students are encouraged to participate in a virtual class with their Spanish teacher bi-weekly.
For more information, please go to the elementary FAQs section.
Please click here if you wish to speak to a SIDES Elementary teacher via telephone or e-mail.
