In 1993, Shambhala School was founded by parents and teachers to provide a high quality education in a caring, nurturing environment. They created a place where the inherent goodness of every individual is recognized and students experience genuine delight in learning. Shambhala School is a non-religious school that believes all students possess natural intelligence and curiosity as well as a desire to belong to a harmonious community. Racial, cultural, and religious diversity is welcomed by students and faculty alike. Taking its name from a mythological kingdom where citizens experience life through kindness and respect, the school and its teachers create an uplifted academic and social environment that encourages exploration, community, and the joy of learning. It is the goal of every faculty member to help students reach their full potential through the development of intellect, intuition, compassion, humour, and self-confidence. With approximately 160 students, Shambhala School offers an enriched curriculum in grades pre-primary through 12. As the school continues on a path of steady growth, it does not waiver from the commitment to small, intimate classes that allow for significant one-on-one interaction between student and teacher. By keeping class sizes small, the school provides a safe and friendly environment where students and their families form an integral part of a community. Academic and Social Environment School faculty work closely with students and parents to ensure that each child has the opportunity for significant and meaningful involvement in the learning process and the social environment of the school. Class sizes generally range from 12 — 20 students, allowing for individual attention and hands on learning, both in classes and through field trips. A wide range of subjects is offered at all grade levels. Treasuring the magic and openness of childhood, Elementary students' mastery of academic skills is nestled in a friendly, supportive environment in which both academics and personal growth are woven together into a fully integrated whole. Students experience knowledge as a natural part of their lives and develop a foundation for a lifelong love of learning. Junior High and High School students experience the challenge of a high quality academic curriculum within an intimate and safe environment. Students and teachers develop a close working relationship in which exploration and discovery is a common journey. The Shambhala School maintains a high academic standard that meets and exceeds Nova Scotia Department of Education requirements and held its first grade 12 commencement in 1998. Since that time, students have attended a wide variety of universities all over the world. Enrichment Students at the Shambhala School develop a well-rounded outlook on the world. Combining strong academics with a focus on the inner child through arts, sports, and academic enrichment is central to the school's philosophy. Art in everyday life, and its expression through visual, musical, dance, and dramatic means are woven into the daily routine of classes up to grade 6, and are explored though subject oriented classes in grades seven through 12. Students have the opportunity to discover and refine their creative abilities. Regular participation by students in physical education, sports, and martial arts promotes healthy living, and helps centre the mind and body. Drawing from the Shambhala tradition, the school invites students from grades seven to 12 to begin each day with a brief period of meditation and yoga. These activities help students to centre themselves and create a "fresh start", which provides a natural transition from non-school to school activities. Younger students share a similar experience through movement activities, which take place along with singing, verses and games each day in morning circle. Students in all grades end the day with classroom chores and closing activities that vary according to grade level. Extracurricular Activities Along with regular school activities such as field trips and guest speakers, students have the opportunity to attend special events such as plays, concerts, and gallery exhibits. Additionally, the school plans camping trips where students can experience both a better understanding of the natural world and participate in environmental awareness activities. Athletics is supported and encouraged by the school and in the past has included ski trips, organized wrestling, basketball and lunchtime and after school intramural programs. The Shambhala School participates in tournaments with other independent schools in areas such as basketball, volleyball, badminton, and track and field. Parent Participation The Shambhala School welcomes and encourages parental involvement in school activities and events. Parents who are able to become involved in the school are rewarded through witnessing the growth of their own children within the school environment. Parents who are at least periodically involved with school activities also find they develop working relationships with faculty, which greatly facilitates the continuation of the learning process at home.