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Forest Grove Elementary

8525 Forest Grove Dr, Burnaby, BC, V5A 4H5 · Burnaby

Rating

5.7

5-year avg

6.2

Rank

572/1032

2026 report · 2024-2025 school year

Quick take

School review information

Forest Grove Elementary is a community-focused school with a strong emphasis on nature and unique educational offerings. Its edible garden and Mandarin Language Arts program set it apart from typical elementary schools, supported by a highly dedicated parent community. However, recent slight declines in academic ratings and potential district budget cuts to specialized programs are factors to consider. It is a solid choice for families who value an active PAC, environmental education, and a green neighborhood, provided they are proactive in engaging with the school administration.

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Editorial review summary

Public parent discussions present a mixed but generally engaged picture of Forest Grove Elementary. Many parents praise the school's beautiful, green campus and the highly active Parent Advisory Council (PAC), which organizes numerous events, hot lunches, and fundraising drives. The unique Mandarin program and the edible garden are frequently highlighted as major positives. However, online forums and social media groups show polarized views regarding school administration; while some parents report quick and supportive responses to behavioral issues, others have expressed frustration over how conflicts and bullying were handled. Additionally, parents have actively rallied to protect school programs from district budget cuts, demonstrating a strong, advocacy-minded community.

Common positives

  • Unique Mandarin Language Arts program (currently serving enrolled students)
  • Edible garden program providing hands-on agricultural and culinary learning
  • StrongStart Centre on-site for early childhood learning
  • Highly active PAC that organizes community events and diverse after-school programs
  • Beautiful, nature-surrounded campus in a family-oriented neighborhood

Common concerns

  • Fraser Institute ratings have trended downward recently (from a peak of 6.9 to 5.7)
  • District budget deficits threaten the future intake of the Mandarin program and other extracurriculars
  • Mixed reviews regarding the administration's handling of student conflicts and bullying
  • High demand for before- and after-school childcare can lead to waitlists

Who this school may fit

Families looking for a school with a strong sense of community, robust after-school activities, and unique programs like gardening will find Forest Grove Elementary appealing. It is highly recommended to tour the school, speak directly with the administration about how they handle student well-being, and confirm the current status of the Mandarin program if that is a priority for your child.

Ratings and data

Academic information

Forest Grove Elementary currently holds a Fraser Institute rating of 5.7/10, placing it at a provincial rank of 572 out of 1032 schools in British Columbia. The school's performance has seen some fluctuation over recent years, with a rating history showing 5.5, 6.9, 6.8, 5.9, and most recently 5.7. The previous 5-year average rating stands at 6.2, indicating that while recent scores have dipped slightly, the school generally maintains a moderate academic standing. The school participates in standard provincial assessments and has historically offered unique learning opportunities like the Mandarin Language Arts program, though parents should note recent district budget constraints may impact future intakes for specialized programs.

Sources include Fraser Institute data and InsideVan School Guide summaries. Ratings do not represent the full quality of a school.

School-run details

Special programs

Mandarin Language Arts Program (Note: District budget discussions may impact future intakes)Edible School Garden Program (in partnership with Sprouting Chefs)StrongStart Early Learning CentreExtensive After-School Programs (Musical Theatre, Young Rembrandts, Parks & Rec sports)Creekside Youth Centre Pre-teen Drop-in

Common questions

Where is Forest Grove Elementary located?+

Forest Grove Elementary is located at 8525 Forest Grove Dr, Burnaby, BC, V5A 4H5 in Burnaby.

Does Forest Grove Elementary have after-school pickup options?+

InsideVan currently tracks 0 programs that explicitly serve this school and 1 nearby after-school options.

Are there tutors near Forest Grove Elementary?+

InsideVan currently lists 1 nearby tutor or academic enrichment options that may work for families around this school.

Are there kids classes near Forest Grove Elementary?+

InsideVan currently lists 6 nearby kids class or activity options.

After school

1

pickup or nearby

Nearby tutors

1

nearby options

Nearby classes

6

nearby options

After-school pickup

See pickup and nearby options first

0 explicitly serve this school, plus 1 nearby within 3km.

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What this page covers

Forest Grove Elementary school information

Forest Grove Elementary is a elementary school in Burnaby. This page brings together school ratings and rankings, school programs, 1 after-school options, nearby tutors, and kids classes so families can compare the school and after-school fit in one place.

Sources & data context

AI research sources

Researched: 2026-09-28

The AI summary uses public sources. Public parent commentary is separate from parent reports submitted to InsideVan. Ratings and history are supplied by our database.

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Check programs, admission requirements, and day-to-day arrangements with the school.

Fraser Institute · 2026 report
The rating dataset used here covers 2024-2025. The five-year average belongs to that historical report, not the five years ending today.

Academic ratings do not capture the whole school experience, including belonging, support, or fit for your child. A nearby care provider does not necessarily offer school pickup; confirm with the provider.