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27 | Thursday, October 20, 2016 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com education Your child your choice: finding the right school Young people today face many opportunities, influences and challenges. With the rapid pace of technology, the constant impact of social media and the increasingly competitive post-secondary and employment landscape, the decision to choose the right educational partnership is more important than ever. The Oakville Independent Schools (OIS) provide a wide range of educational options for families to choose from. The 11 member schools share a commitment to educational excellence in safe, supportive environments and emphasize the development of lifelong values. OIS schools serve students of all ages, skill levels, and incomes offering a variety of educational programs. Each school has its own mission and philosophy and is uniquely positioned to address individual educational goals and needs. In addition to offering enriched programs in the arts, music, athletics, and languages, independent schools also have the resources and facilities necessary to support continued advancements in learning. This includes the autonomy and flexibility to engage new technologies, explore innovative approaches to education, to guide and encourage students to take risks, confront new challenges, and to explore their passions and develop both confidence and resilience. Each member of the OIS strives to admit students who will benefit the most from its particular program. Finding the right school often depends on finding the right match between your child's talents and interests and a school's mission and philosophy. When parents begin looking for an independent school, they are often looking for an environment that offers a well-rounded experience. The members of the OIS offer programs that develop character and intellect together and provide hands-on learning experiences such as field trips, extracurricular activities, leadership training and guest speakers. Although admissions schedules vary, most schools encourage families to begin the process in early fall of the year preceding enrollment. The first step often starts with attending an open house. To assist families in their search, each member of the Oakville Independent Schools is holding a Fall Open House on Sat., October 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is a great way for families to explore the many educational options available to families in the Oakville area in one day. Visit www.educationoakville.com for school profiles with direct links to individual school websites, practical information about how to choose a school, the admissions process, open house details, and a map with school locations. Making choices for your child's education can be one of the most important decisions a parent can make, and it can be a challenging task. Just as every child is a unique individual, each school has something different to offer. Deciding what your child needs and what matters most are key steps in choosing a school with the best fit for your child. This article was provided by Oakville Independent Schools which represents: Appleby College, Chisholm Academy, Dearcroft Montessori School and West Wind Montessori Jr. High, Glenburnie School, King's Christian Collegiate, MacLachlan College, Oakville Christian School, Rotherglen School, St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School and Wildwood Academy. For more information visit: www.educationoakville.com Advertorial Thinking about your child's education? THE IS YOURS 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. CHOICE Oakville Independent Schools provide unique educational experiences that enrich students' lives. Our schools prepare students to embrace innovation, confront new challenges, explore their passions, and develop confidence and resilience. Visit our schools on October 22nd to explore how an independent education can benefit your child. ALL SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE Saturday, October 22, 2016 Choose an Oakville Independent School. To learn more, and to access a map of school locations, visit www.educationoakville.com