BCBusiness

I N D E P E N D E N T S C H O O L S S P E C I A L F E A T U R E (from music to science), teach students about coding, research skills, leveraging apps and digital design. "They're encouraged to experiment, build and problem-solve, seeing firsthand how technology can be used creatively to bring ideas to life," he says. But, increasingly, there are many conversations about AI and digital responsibility. "Our goal is to graduate students who aren't just comfortable using technology," Slinger says. "They're innovators, ethical creators and critical thinkers, ready to navigate and shape a rapidly evolving world." Slinger notes that Urban Academy's approach to AI combines technical fluency and human readiness. The school teaches students to understand AI, question how it's used and explore how to responsibly use it to solve real-world problems. However, like anything "brand new," it is also approached with a commitment to ensuring students are operating responsibly in this space. "We see the rise of AI and emerging technologies not as a challenge to react to but as an opportunity to prepare students to lead in a rapidly evolving world," says Slinger. "Equally important, we focus on the skills AI can't replicate: critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, empathy and ethical decision-making." For Urban Academy, Slinger notes, adaptation isn't enough. "We're committed to equipping students to be future-ready," he says. "The rapid pace of change in our world demands a model that combines technical knowledge with a resilient and adaptable character, and that's exactly what we're building." SOUTHRIDGE SCHOOL "Southridge School in Surrey uses technology to enhance learning in ways that are purposeful and age-appropriate," says Renee Lepp, the school's director of enrolment. Students are introduced to digital tools in Junior School, with all students from grades 5 to 12 equipped with school-provided devices. "We also maintain a cellphone-free school environment to support focus, connection and well-being," Lepp adds. "Technology is used to enhance learning, not replace human interaction, keeping relationships and community at the heart of the Southridge experience." That human interaction is a foundation of Southridge's philosophy. "Since 2008, Southridge has been a Canadian leader in Harkness learning, and we remain the only school in the country to fully implement this method across a Senior School curriculum," says Laura Holland, Senior School principal. Every day, students and teachers gather at a large round table for student-led, discussion- based learning, with intentionally small class sizes that promote meaningful engagement. "Education is moving from content delivery to skill development—critical thinking, problem-solving and adaptability," says Holland, adding that, with Harkness learning, students are practicing thoughtful dialogue, collaboration and empathy, building skills that technology can't replace. In that sense, AI is both a tool and a topic to learn about at Southridge. "Students are taught to use emerging technologies thoughtfully and ethically, while also engaging in conversations about digital citizenship, critical thinking and taking personal responsibility," says Lepp. "Our approach balances knowledge with character, preparing graduates who can navigate the future with kindness, intelligence and integrity." MULGRAVE SCHOOL "Technologies such as AI have become a necessary skill for both students and teachers," says Fareed Teja, director of information and learning technology at Mulgrave School Southridge School

• Cover