The Fernie Academy earned the highest ranking among East Kootenay elementary schools on the Fraser Institute’s 2014-15 list. The Academy came in at 52 out of 944 private and public elementary schools across the province and received a score of nine out ten as the institutions are judged on Provincial exam results, grade-to-grade transition rates, and graduation rates.

Isabella Dicken came in at 688 out of 944, 636 spots below the Academy. Cranbrook’s Amy Woodland was the lowest ranked local elementary school in the region at 847th. In fact, the majority of the nine Cranbrook elementary schools landed on the bottom half of the annual rankings.

Private schools accounted for 80% of the report’s top 100 schools. The list from the Fraser Institute has been increasingly criticized by teachers and administrators for not portraying the reality of learning environments or focusing on personalized learning.

The Fernie Academy elementary division (K-7) is based on an entirely academic morning followed each afternoon by recreational and cultural pursuits. The school follows BC Curriculum and is staffed with highly qualified certified teachers and instructors. Through the variety of experiences at The Fernie Academy students are faced with many opportunities and challenges. Students, their families, and staff work together to create a positive and supportive environment where the children strive to develop their full potential. As a result, the community created within the school fosters a secure and inspiring learning environment and encourages students to aim for excellence in all aspects of their lives. The High School (Gr 8-12) offers a wide range of academic and elective courses including three languages and a full complement of fine arts and applied skills. All students enjoy a high level of daily activity with K-10 participating in daily PE.

To see the Frazer Institute’s 2014-15 list ranking CLICK HERE.