Cortes Island School: Rooted in Land, Learning, and Community

Cortes Island School is a remote K–12 school located on the traditional territories of the Klahoose, Tla’amin, and Homalco Nations. With ~80 students, we’re an ecologically minded school that reflects the diversity and spirit of the island. About 30% of our students are of Indigenous ancestry, and our growing relationship with Klahoose First Nation enriches our curriculum and culture.

We host the Cortes Island Academy (CIA)—a Grade 10–12 program exploring climate, art, and political imagination—adding depth to our multi-age structure and expanding opportunities for rural learners.

Our dedicated team of 11 staff members—including teachers, support staff, and specialists—work collaboratively to foster strong foundational skills through literacy, numeracy, and place-based learning. We’re building a model for rural education rooted in reconciliation and connection to the land.

For more information, check out our Student Achievement Plan in the Resources section.