The Foothills School Division (FSD) is excited to announce that registration for its Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten programs is now open. These programs are designed to foster early childhood development and prepare children for a successful educational journey.

To acquaint new families with the robust early learning programs at FSD, our elementary schools will be hosting a Ready to Learn Information Night on January 29, 2025. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the school, its programs, and meet the school’s leadership team. Please check your local school’s website for event details.

Junior Kindergarten (JK) is a play-based program that develops social skills, motivation to learn, language and numeracy skills. The additional bonus to our JK program is that students become acquainted with a school and its structures, fostering a readiness to learn as the child enters Kindergarten. Students who are enrolled in JK are a part of the school culture and resources including assemblies, concerts, library (learning commons), gymnasium, and educational expertise. The program is currently offered at select schools in High River, Okotoks, Blackie, and DeWinton, and is open to any young learner who is aged 4 by December 31, 2025. Younger learners with a demonstrated need may be eligible for Junior Kindergarten; please visit our website for details.

Kindergarten with FSD develops a child’s readiness to learn, growing upon their skills in literacy and numeracy, science, the arts, and more. Students will engage in play-based learning that incorporates several aspects of the curriculum into a single lesson, developing critical-thinking skills and a mind for inquiry. Plus, children who participate in FSD’s Kindergarten program will demonstrate a greater readiness to learn for when they enter grade 1. Learners who are age 5 by December 31, 2025, are eligible to enroll in one of our engaging Kindergarten programs.

FSD offers Kindergarten in every FSD community. Providing choice in education for the region, alternative Kindergarten programs include:

• Full Time French Immersion at École Percy Pegler in Okotoks and École Joe Clark in High River
• Part Time Explore: Nature Based Learning at École Percy Pegler
• International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program at Millarville Community School

While part time Kindergarten is offered at every elementary school, full time programming is available at Big Rock School, Dr. Morris Gibson, Westmount, Spitzee, Heritage Heights, C. Ian McLaren, Red Deer Lake, as well as at École Percy Pegler and École Joe Clark for French Immersion.

Parents can complete the quick and secure online registration at home. Digital copies of the child’s birth certificate or passport will be required as part of the process. If you encounter any issues or have questions while completing the forms, you can call the school’s office for assistance.

Foothills School Division is a place for all, offering pathways for all learners. We invite parents and guardians to learn more about FSD at our website at foothillsschooldivision.ca or call Division Office at 403-652-3001.

Media Contact:
Sara Fox
Manager of Communications and Community Engagement
communications@fsd38.ab.ca

Additional Information:

“Our Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten programs are designed to ignite a lifelong love of learning in our youngest students. We are committed to providing a nurturing and stimulating environment where children can develop essential skills and explore their natural curiosity. We believe that by investing in early childhood education, we are laying the foundation for future success and academic excellence.”
– Dinah VanDonzel, Director of Student Learning (JK-6) and Staff Learning

Media Release