Kindergarten registration for the 2022-23 school year will open for all Rocky View Schools (RVS) families on Jan. 24, according to a press release from the public school division.
“Kindergarten is an important milestone for many children in their educational journey,” said Superintendent Greg Luterbach in the release. “The pandemic has created challenges for many families related to accessing programming for young children, making Kindergarten enrolment especially important at this time. Ensuring each child makes a successful transition from home to school is a goal for parents and teachers. RVS’ Kindergarten programs build on what children have already learned at home and in the community. Kindergarten supports the establishment of foundational early literacy and math skills and offers opportunities for students to develop social and problem-solving skills. It also supports the student in developing positive attitudes and behaviours towards learning and school.”
In RVS, Kindergarten is offered as a half-day program in most schools. According to the press release, select schools have a full-day Kindergarten program on alternating days.
Later in the spring, children will be placed in morning or afternoon programs based on circumstances outlined by parents and available space. Although registration will continue throughout the year, registering early helps families and schools plan for a successful transition and provides RVS necessary information to have teachers in place for the students.
“Kindergarten is the place children learn to play with others and use that play to explore their early interests,” said Associate Superintendent of Learning, Lori Meyer. “It provides a strong foundation for later learning and allows children to build self-confidence and a variety of skills that will serve them later in their educational journey.”
In 2020, RVS stated Kindergarten eligibility requirements changed to comply with Alberta’s new Education Act and Early Childhood Services regulations. The new standardized age of entry requires students to turn five years old by Dec. 31 of the school year they begin Kindergarten. This eligibility means children born between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2017, can register for Kindergarten for the 2022-23 school year.
All new registrations for Kindergarten must be completed through SchoolEngage – RVS’ online registration system. During operational hours, RVS states schools will allow access to a computer and assistance for families who otherwise do not have access to a computer. Parents/guardians can also visit the RVS Education Centre at 2651 Chinook Winds Drive SW in Airdrie for assistance. RVS no longer offers paper application forms.
Families can visit rockyview.ab.ca for more information about Kindergarten registration.
“We are excited to welcome an entirely new group of young learners to the RVS family when these kindergarteners begin in September,” Luterbach said.
