Vancouver Wondertree: Frequently Asked Questions 1. How many students are at Wondertree Learning Centre? Our maximum number of full-time (Mon-Thu) learners is 24, as we maintain learner to LC ratio of 12:1. Part-time learners would be included in our two day a week Kindergarten program, as well as our one day a week Blended Program for home-based learners. 2. How many staff members are there? Staffing may vary depending on the number of registered learners. Generally our staff consists of:         *Brent Cameron: founder         *Verena Gibbs: Vice- Principal         *Older Group Learning Consultant: Verena Gibbs with Owen Thomas         *Younger Group Learning Consultant: Kate Blyth         *Kindergarten Learning Constulant: Cara Felde         *Blended Coordinator: Jennifer Engracio         *Office administrator: Amalia Cook         *Numerous mentors, support staff, volunteers 3. Who are mentors? And where do you find them? Mentorship is an integral part of our program. We are all mentors because we all have something special to share. Mentors can be parents who wish to share a talent or hobby (sculpting, experimental film, feltmaking, woodworking). Some are volunteers from the community who want to share their passions with others. Others are hired by the children for their specific skill or ability. Mentoring happens every day at Wondertree; whether it is supporting someone with a math assignment, or teaching them electric guitar. 4. What ages are the kids? We support learners from ages of 5 - 13. Every year is different, and so the numbers of specific age groups fluctuates. Generally, the children enjoy the mixed age environment, and the freedom to build friendships with a variety of kids. 5. How are you funded? We are a recognized Group 1 Independent School, which means we receive partial funding from the government. We are also a federally recognized charitable organization, and have non-profit status. Full time tuition for the 2007-2008 learning year is $500/month.  Kindergarten (part-time) tuition is $250.   (Note: Tuition will increase for the 2008-2009 year) 6. What parent/family contributions are expected? Being an active and supportive role in the child’s learning is the most important contribution. We require each family member to contribute  4 hours/month (or a total of 20 hours a year) of volunteer services at Wondertree. This volunteer commitment can be anything from tidying up the art room, to managing our recycling, to helping in the office! For every skill, there is a task at Wondertree! 7. What kinds of outings do you go on? Every year is different, depending on the interests of the kids. Past outings have included: EA Sports (to find out how they make video games), plays on Granville Island, bowling, swimming, snow tubing, visiting Xenia on Bowen Island, exploring China town, Imax movies, Science World, Eagle watching in Brackendale, building cobb structures at UBC to name a few. We also go on community camping trips, which are loads of fun! 8. How will my child do when they move on to highschool? Generally, our learners do well academically. Many are beyond their peers in some subject areas, on par in some areas, and somewhat below in others. Learners who have been at Wondertree for a number of years are often confident, self-assured, and motivated learners who have a strong sense of self and take responsibility for their life-learning journey. 9. What is the “ideal” student for Wondertree? First and foremost, it is important that families have a good understanding of our philosophy, and believe in the inherent right of the child to guide their own learning. We support all types of learners. Often learners who are motivated, enthusiastic and responsible do well. We believe that when a community of adults is supportive, committed and open to the child’s learning needs and passions, then amazing learning unfolds. 10. What is the admissions process? We encourage families to start by visiting our website. The next step would be to visit the centre, either during the day while in session, or at the end of the day. From there, learners are welcome to spend a whole day, or partial day; it is an opportunity for both the learner and Wondertree staff to get a sense of the learner’s needs. The next step would be to register for a two week trial. At the end of the two weeks, the family, learner and staff meet to reflect on the process and decide whether Wondertree is in the best interest of all involved. 11. What are your suggested readings? SelfDesign by Brent Cameron Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) NonViolent Communication by Marshall Rosenberg Field Day by Matt Hern Sudbury Valley School Model Works by John Holt Works by Joseph Chilton Pierce Works by John Taylor Gatto Works by Alfie Kohn          12. How do I get more information? Visit our website: www.wondertree.org  Or contact us for more information at: Call: 604 224 3663 Fax: 604-224 3662 Email: info@wondertree.org