Schools for Children in Grades 1-12 Educational opportunities are provided in many pre-schools, primary and secondary schools. The Eastern School District is the largest school district on Prince Edward Island. It has 43 schools serving more than 13,000 students in grades 1-12. The English-speaking public schools (grades 1-12) in Charlottetown are part of the Eastern School District. The Western School Board oversees 21 schools which are located in a more rural area of PEI. Each of the Western School Board facilities houses a fully-equipped computer lab and integrates technology into the standard curriculum. They also focus on the arts as well as offering a strong athletic program. In addition to the public schools, there are three private schools on the island. French-speaking public schools (grades 1-12) are provided by the Commission Scolaire de Langue Française. Kindergarten is publicly funded but delivered by private organizations. There are four private schools which are primarily operated by religious denominations. Higher Education The University of Prince Edward Island and Holland College, as well as several other institutions which cater to specialized training, are among those offering post secondary education. The University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) is a public liberal arts and science institution which is committed to encouraging and fostering critical, creative, and independent thinking. With a 200-member faculty, UPEI offers a blend of academic programs in Arts, Science, Education, Nursing, and Veterinary Medication to over 4,200 full- and part-time students. It also offers graduate programs in Veterinary Medicine, Biology, Chemistry, Education, and Island Studies. Internship and exchange programs are coordinated by the Center for Life-Long Learning are also offered at UPEI. About 40% of the Holland College students come from off of Prince Edward Island. One of the things that draw students to Holland College, which is a smaller institution than UPEI, is the variety of programs offered in a more intimate setting for learning. Among the programs offered include Adult and Community Education, Applied Sciences and Engineering, Education, Business, Culinary Arts, Computer Science, Media and Communication, and much more. |