Secondary
Compare schoolsGaribaldi Secondary School
24789 Dewdney Trunk Rd, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 1X2 · Maple Ridge
Rating
4.1
5-year avg
N/A
Rank
132/252
Quick take
School review information
Garibaldi Secondary is a school of contrasts. While its overall provincial rankings are low and it lacks a dominant sports culture, it is a hidden gem for students seeking rigorous academics through the IB program or those passionate about the arts and trades.
Editorial review summary
Publicly available parent and alumni discussions indicate a divide between the school's general community reputation and the actual experiences of its students. Historically, the school has battled a negative 'bad rap' in the broader community, which some attribute to its lack of dominant sports programs compared to neighboring schools. However, families and students directly involved in Garibaldi's IB and Fine Arts programs report highly positive experiences. Reviewers frequently praise the dedicated teachers, the exceptional theatre and music programs, and the strong trades training options. For students engaged in these specific pathways, the school is highly recommended by former attendees.
Common positives
- Only public school in Maple Ridge offering the full IB Programme (MYP and Diploma).
- Exceptional Fine Arts programs, particularly in theatre, music, and video production.
- Strong trades and vocational partnership programs (e.g., Electrical, Carpentry).
- Dedicated teaching staff for specialized academic and arts tracks.
Common concerns
- Low overall Fraser Institute rating (4.1/10) with a history of fluctuating scores.
- Lacks the strong, high-profile sports programs found at some neighboring schools.
- Lingering negative community reputation, though often disputed by actual students.
- Occasional minor security and safety incidents reported in local news.
Who this school may fit
Families should look past the overall rating and community rumors to evaluate what Garibaldi actually offers. If your child is academically driven and interested in the International Baccalaureate program, or if they are drawn to theatre, music, or vocational trades, this school provides excellent, specialized opportunities. However, if your child is looking for a traditional high school experience centered around competitive athletics, other schools in the district might be a better fit.
Ratings and data
Academic information
Garibaldi Secondary School has a Fraser Institute rating of 4.1/10, ranking 132 out of 252 schools in British Columbia. Its historical ratings have shown significant fluctuation (2.8, 4.3, 4.4, 1.8, 4.1). Despite these lower overall metrics, Garibaldi stands out academically as the only public high school in Maple Ridge to offer the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme for Grades 11-12, as well as the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Grades 8-10. The school operates on a linear schedule to support these rigorous academic tracks. Students enrolled in the IB program often experience a high standard of instruction and successfully transition to top universities, contrasting with the school's broader statistical averages.
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
Common questions
Where is Garibaldi Secondary School located?+
Garibaldi Secondary School is located at 24789 Dewdney Trunk Rd, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 1X2 in Maple Ridge.
Does Garibaldi Secondary School have after-school pickup options?+
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After-school programs and classes near Garibaldi Secondary School
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What this page covers
Garibaldi Secondary School school information
Garibaldi Secondary School is a secondary school in Maple Ridge. This page brings together school ratings and rankings, school programs, 0 after-school options, nearby tutors, and kids classes so families can compare the school and after-school fit in one place.
Sources & data context
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Fraser Institute · 2020 report
The rating dataset used here covers 2018-2019. 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.