KVR Today

    KVR offers students a wide range of exploratories in: art, band, computers, drama, home ec., leadership, and tech ed.  The building is made up of 3 levels: a large multi-purpose room, 2 computer labs, a large shop room, and a large atrium entranceway.  The middle school philosophy was adopted by the district in the early 1990's to ease students transition into high school.  Grade 6 students are taught mainly by division teachers, receiving most of their instruction in their home room divisions,  while grade 8 students are taught by a variety of teachers, and often move to different classrooms.    

    KVR Middle School is a bilingual school for students in grades 6 - 8.  The school district's French immersion program begins as late immersion in grade 6, and continues through to grade 12. Parents wishing to enroll students in this program should contact the office. 
 

O'Connell Elementary School

Kettle Valley Railway Station ©2005 Okanagan Historical Society

KVR LEADERSHIP

    Good citizenship and student leadership are highly valued at KVR Middle School. Leadership is expressed in many forms.  In class, it is shown by doing one’s best in all aspects of school. Special  opportunities for the development and expression of leadership skills are made  available through the school leadership program. Involvement in the clubs,  teams, and activities give students opportunities to be school leaders. Students are encouraged to get involved and make a  commitment and contribution to their school!

There are lots of opportunities for students to get involved!
    

KVR HISTORY

    Located on Jermyn Avenue, near downtown, KVR was the first middle school built in Penticton.  During 1996, construction began and the new building replaced O'Connell Elementary School. The school name was chosen by the board of trustees, because the school was  located near the old Kettle Valley Railroad line.  The library was named  after the late, Dan O'Connell, to honor his leadership in education.  Mr.  O'Connell was the elementary school principal in Penticton from 1928 - 1960.  

    When KVR first opened its doors in September 1997, Mr. John Laidlaw was the principal. Both staff and students faced challenges in the initial months of operation, as construction continued and resources were limited.  Both grade 6 and 7 French immersion students remained at Wiltse Elementary, while grade 8's remained at Penticton Secondary School until classrooms were finally completed. In the first years of operation, KVR staff began building community within the school and strived for providing students with high quality education. Today, the building remains as one of the largest middle schools in the district.