​Place-based outdoor learning is an important component of each child's educational program at OTS. Pictured is a student outside an insect trap known as the Malaise Trap. Using a Malaise trap, a tent-like apparatus, Oyama
Traditional School will collect hundreds of insect specimens for a scheduled 2
week period (Sept. 19 - 30, 2016).  The specimens caught will then be
analyzed and DNA barcoded at Centre for Biodiversity Genomics, and then the school will receive a report. It will
highlight insect diversity at OTS as well as notable finds, and make comparisons between
schools and the other sites across Canada.

​STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education is an important area that fosters personalized learning at OTS. Pictured is a student-designed Lego Robotic forklift with the forks themselves designed by the student and printed with a 3D printer!!!

​Place-based learning at OTS involves learning across the curriculum - the local history, Okanagan Aboriginal culture and language, as well as scientific investigations involving the local environment - all developing 21st Century Learning within our students. Pictured are Primary students on a recent field trip to the salmon hatchery at Mission Creek Park, augmenting their classroom learning with first-hand research on site!

Pictured are some grade 3 math students in the gym
learning estimation strategies. They used base 10 as a strategy and used sample sets of 10 (in the paper cups). Learning using
manipulatives like this is engaging as students get to represent their learning
in other ways than just pencil and paper. Learning the basic principles of
estimation is also a key 21 st Century numeracy goal. 

​OTS is on a journey to becoming a Leader in Me Lighthouse school! Every student has a leadership role, whether in the classroom, throughout the school or into the community! Led by a core Lighthouse Leader team, students apply for various "zones" of leadership such as House Team Captains, Friendship Leaders, Playground Leaders, the list goes on and on! Students at OTS are proactive, begin with the end in mind, put first things first, think "win-win", seek first to understand (then have the courage to say their own point of view) and work together by synergizing. The positive school culture that is emerging as a result is amazing!!!