Rating
2.9
5-year avg
2.7
Rank
994/1032
2026 report · 2024-2025 school year
Quick take
School review information
Lena Shaw Elementary is a deeply caring, community-centric inner-city school that goes above and beyond to support the holistic needs of its students. While its Fraser Institute academic ratings are among the lowest in the province, the school shines in its provision of wrap-around services, early learning programs, and unique technological opportunities like the Innovation Lab. It is an environment where social-emotional growth and community aid take precedence.
Editorial review summary
Publicly available parent reviews for Lena Shaw Elementary are limited on traditional review platforms, so signals are drawn primarily from community discussions, news, and PAC updates. Parents and community members highly praise the school's wrap-around services and dedicated staff. Initiatives like 'The Lena Shawp' (a free clothing and mutual aid program), the Walking School Bus, and the annual City Dream Centre back-to-school event (providing free backpacks and supplies) are deeply appreciated by families. The active Parent Advisory Council (PAC) and the school's strong community partnerships, which bring in programs like Clubhouse 36 and the Cmolik Innovation Lab, create a welcoming and highly supportive environment for vulnerable students.
Common positives
- Exceptional wrap-around community support, including breakfast/lunch programs and a free clothing initiative ('The Lena Shawp').
- Home to the Cmolik Foundation Innovation Lab, providing students with access to advanced technology and STEM tools.
- Offers robust early learning programs like StrongStart and the JustB4 pre-K pilot.
- Partnerships with organizations provide excellent extracurriculars, such as the Clubhouse 36 after-school program.
- Active PAC and community initiatives like the Walking School Bus ensure student safety and engagement.
Common concerns
- Very low academic ranking, with a Fraser Institute score of 2.9/10 (ranked 994/1032).
- Located in a densely populated, higher-needs inner-city neighborhood, which may present socioeconomic challenges.
- Resources and staff attention are heavily directed toward basic needs and social-emotional support, which might detract from advanced academic enrichment.
Who this school may fit
This school is highly recommended for families who value a nurturing, inclusive environment with strong community support systems and innovative extracurriculars. However, families who prioritize high standardized test scores and traditional academic rigor may want to explore other options or be prepared to heavily supplement their child's academic learning at home.
Ratings and data
Academic information
Lena Shaw Elementary's academic performance, as measured by the Fraser Institute, is significantly below the provincial average. The school holds an overall rating of 2.9 out of 10, ranking 994th out of 1,032 schools in British Columbia. Its historical performance shows some fluctuation, with a recent five-year average of 2.7 and a peak rating of 4.5 in recent years before settling back to 2.9. As an inner-city school serving a densely populated urban neighborhood, Lena Shaw places a heavy emphasis on wrap-around support, social-emotional learning, and community aid. While standardized test scores are low, the school provides unique educational opportunities, such as the Cmolik Foundation Innovation Lab, which offers students hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology similar to an MIT Fab Lab.
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 Lena Shaw Elementary located?+
Lena Shaw Elementary is located at 14250 100a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3T 5W9 in Surrey.
Does Lena Shaw Elementary have after-school pickup options?+
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What this page covers
Lena Shaw Elementary school information
Lena Shaw Elementary is a elementary school in Surrey. 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
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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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.