FAQ

Q. What is the difference between Distributed Learning and Homeschooling
A. Homeschoolers register with a school but are not required to follow the Learning Outcomes set by the Ministry.  A homeschooling student does not receive regular assessment, report cards, and cannot get a Dogwood Diploma.  The funding for a homeschooling student is approximately $175 per student.
A DL student is an enrolled student.  While there are some accountability issues associated with being enrolled, a DL student also receives much more support from the school.  The school provides educational material and services for the child, regularly assesses the student, provides report cards three times a year and grants a Dogwood diploma to graduating students.

Q. How is BVCDL accountable to the Ministry?
A. BVCDL must provide a program that meets the learning outcomes of the provincial curriculum.  It's important to note that there is substantial flexibility in how to meet these learning outcomes, especially in the elementary years.
We must also provide a BC certified teacher who develops a SLP (Student Learning Plan) for all students, who supervises that student, and provides regular assessment of that student's work. 

Q.  What is the difference between a public school and an independent school DL program?
A. An independent school is funded at 50% of the base rate for a student in that school district.  With this reduced funding comes the ability to offer "faith-based" curriculum and instruction.  A public school, by law, is unable to provide this service.

Q. What is different about your DL program?
A. We seek to offer parents flexibility in their approach to education and curriculum. We work closely with parents to develop a plan that will work for your child. We have experienced staff who are able to implement such a plan. Because we are small, we can offer this indivicual help to all of our students.

For local students, we encourage our students to interact with our Bricks and Mortar program by attending field trips, playing on sports teams, participating in musicals, and using the library. 

 
Lastly, as a independent Christian school, we seek to implement a Christian perspective in the material that students are learn.  We also seeks to develop the whole child, educationally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Q. Do I have to have a computer?  Does my child have to take online courses?
A.  A computer is important for the program.  If you do not have a computer, one can be loaned to you by the school.  As well, we are able to pay for part of your internet access.  Presently, very little of our K-7 program is delivered electronically.  We do however, communicate with parents and students (where appropriate) via email and other technology.  We are currently working on developing more technology for delivering of courses at the upper levels.

Q. What does BVCDL provide for parents who enrol their children?
A.  As stated above, we provide parents with an educational program that seeks to deliver material from a Christian perspective.  We provide parents with a Christian BC-Certified teacher to guide their academic pursuits.  We provide the opportunity to use some of the resources associated with our Bricks and Mortar program.  Because we are only funded at the 50% level, there are limits to what we can provide, but we do our best.

Q.  What are the requirements for enrollment?
A. For full-time enrollment, there are two main requirements.  Firstly, you must agree to the princples and foundations of our school.  In essence this means agreeing to provide your child with a Christian education throughout the curriculum..  Secondly, a parent must understand and agree with the requirements of a DL program as outlined by the ministry.

For cross-enrolled students, students must sign an agreement with BVCDL, stating they understand the requirements of the course.

Q. How do I get to the Home page
A. Click on the logo on the top of the page.

More Questions? Ask Us!