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Public education has many alternative programs, but most are essentially the same shirt in different colours: the same cut with slightly shorter sleeves or an extra pocket. You can get the curriculum in one of half a dozen languages, or with half a day of sports, extra art or religion. Very few programs differ in pedagogy, the philosophy of how the curriculum is delivered.

Progressive education is a philosophy that puts each student's needs and abilities first. Students take an active part in their own learning instead of passively receiving information from a teacher. Progressive educators believe education should be relevant and meaningful to students' lives and should build critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

In a progressive setting, students often work on real-world projects and collaborate with their peers. Teachers act as facilitators who help students explore and discover knowledge for themselves. Progressive education rests on the belief that every student can learn and grow, and that education should be personalized to each student's needs.

Yes. There are program fees to attend Caraway, plus fees for field trips and supplies. You can split all costs over the 10-month school year or pay them as a lump sum.

All supply and field trip fees are included in the amounts above. There is also a Community of Caraway Parents Society fee of $15 per year.

We offer subsidies to families who apply and meet the requirements.

Caraway parents are strongly committed to the school community. They serve on parent committees and our parent board. They help buy materials, support teachers with the classroom space, attend community meetings and actively facilitate in the classroom and on field trips.

Families enter a cooperative agreement to volunteer 2.5 hours per week per child, up to a maximum of five hours. This kind of real parent involvement is fundamental to our philosophy. It deepens families' understanding of the program's goals, and having parents and caregivers in the school brings many benefits.

Yes, siblings are welcome in Caraway classrooms. They must not disturb others' learning or damage classroom property or students' project work. Toddlers, for example, are very active and can't respect the space on their own, so please supervise younger siblings closely and clean up after them.

Taking risks in learning builds self-reliance and perseverance. Learning, grit and innovation come from overcoming failure and taking chances.

Yes! Nature Day programming is central to our goals. Nature is one of the best places to build resilience, problem solving, collaboration and healthy risk-taking. Time in nature also supports students' mental health, independence and care for the earth.

There is no yellow bus service to or from Caraway. Public transit is the only option.

No, we do not offer a lunch program. Families pack their own lunches.

Not at all! If you can bring your children to and from school, there are no boundaries.