Island Pacific School is an independent school for students in Grades 6-9. The teachers working here understand the important role middle school plays in the lives of students. We know this period of human development is marked by unparalleled physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth. We understand that our students enter IPS as children, but they graduate as young adolescents—ready to meet the challenges of high school when they leave. We are proud to be an International Baccalaureate (IB) candidate school that focuses solely on the middle years program (MYP). The world recognized IB-MYP standard for teaching excellence brings our small Bowen Island School into a global educational community of more than a half-million people. This complements a well-established academic program that exceeds B.C. Ministry curriculum requirements. Hiking, cross country skiing, and ocean kayaking expeditions extend classroom learning beyond the walls of the school. Monthly cultural excursions to museums, theaters, and galleries are planned throughout the school year to do the same. Our school community extends well beyond Bowen Island. We attract a small number of international students who live with local families, but most of our students either reside on the Island or commute daily from the communities of North and West Vancouver. All of our students graduate in the knowledge they have learned to make a difference, not only in their own personal lives, but in the lives of others as well. Courses in practical reasoning, philosophy, research methods, and fine arts expand students' intellectual and creative horizons. Science fairs, essay competitions, ultimate tournaments, and independent Masterwork studies enrich the program for every student.