What is FISA BC?

The Federation of Independent School Associations in BC (FISA BC) is a voluntary association of all major independent school groups in the province of British Columbia.

What kinds of schools are members through the membership groups in FISA BC?

All kinds. FISA BC encompasses special needs, university prep, religious, Montessori, and Waldorf schools. Sixty percent of independent schools have a strong religious connection.

How many independent school groups constitute the membership of FISA BC?

There are five groups. See “Member Associations” in the drop-down list under “Who Are We?” to see a brief description of each group.

If our school wishes to become a member of FISA BC, to which group would it belong?

If your application is accepted your school will be a member of the Associate Member Group (AMG), the group established for schools with no other provincial affiliation.

What are the requirements for schools for government classification?

Requirements for Schools

What is the cost of membership in FISA BC?

The current membership is $5.25 per pupil per year.

Our school wishes to learn more about FISA BC before we apply for membership. To whom would we speak?

Contact the FISA BC office and ask for the Executive Director, Peter Froese.

How is FISA BC governed?

Each of the five member associations chooses three persons to serve on the FISA BC Board of Directors. The Board meets nine times each year and governs the work of the Executive Director.

How do I start a new independent school?  

The Ministry of Education determines eligibility for independent school certification and operation. Information on how to establish an independent school, please visit this link: MoE Independent School