For over 50 years, Kenneth Gordon Maplewood School (kgms.ca) has empowered K-12 students with learning differences like dyslexia, autism, ADHD, and anxiety in North Vancouver BC. With one of the lowest student-to-teacher ratios in the province, daily 1:1 Orton-Gillingham tutoring, a dedicated social-emotional learning curriculum, and small class sizes, our mission is to empower diverse thinkers, build confidence, and help students realize their dreams. Thrilled to be a Featured Charity for the BMO RUN4HOPE this year, we’re lacing up our running shoes for a transformative journey, fueled by a passion to make a lasting impact on the lives of our unique and inspiring students.
We invite you to read this inspiring testimonial from one of our accomplished graduates who is now embarking on a teaching career at Langara College, driven by a dedication to empower students with learning differences, mirroring the impact her KGMS teachers had on her:
“My name is Rose, and I attended KGMS from grade 6 to 12. My parents enrolled me at KGMS because I wasn’t getting the help I needed at my previous school, and I needed a fresh start. My experience at KGMS was incredible. I wanted to attend school every day, and I was excited to learn and grow. The teachers I had while there played a big part in that. They always ensured I had everything I needed to succeed, supported, and believed in me. I felt very supported in grade 12, and KGMS made me feel like there was no reason to worry about life after high school. I felt heard, understood, and respected, partly because teachers cared a lot about their students. I received a lot of support leading up to graduation day, including help with college applications and my final capstone presentation.
Currently, I’m studying Fine Arts at Langara College, which is very interesting. I have learned a lot about art that I didn’t know before. However, I plan to change my major in the new year to study Early Childhood Education and become a teacher. At KGMS, I had the chance to discover who I was. I learned how to self-advocate and verbalize my needs, which I find myself doing constantly at college. If someone were considering going to KGMS, I would tell them to do it because the school changed my life. It’s a very special place, and I was a very different person before going to KGMS. I didn’t really know what kind of learner I was and felt like I didn’t belong. But now, after attending KGMS for six years, I know who I am. I’m no longer afraid to take up space and be loud. KGMS has given me the confidence to help empower others with learning disabilities” – Rose D. – KGMS Class of 2023
As we lace up our running shoes for the BMO RUN4HOPE, we invite you to join us and support KGMS kids. Your participation can be the catalyst that propels our students toward success. Whether you run, walk, or contribute, every step counts in making a tangible impact on the lives of those who need it most.
Together, we can break down barriers, foster inclusivity, and empower every child to reach their full potential.
Thank you!
