Prairie Waters Elementary Exploring Alternating Full-Day Kindergarten: Parent Survey Now Open

EducationKindergartenParenting
Written By Kim Soderberg McRae
Take the Survey

Prairie Waters Elementary is exploring a move from half-day Kindergarten to a full-day program on alternating days, and families are invited to share their thoughts. Rocky View Schools (RVS) uses Administrative Procedure 211 to guide this process, and parent feedback is essential.

Who can provide feedback?
Families with children ages 0–4 who live in the school’s attendance area. Not sure if you live in the area? Check with the RVS Attendance Area Map.

How to share your input:
Complete the survey for your school by January 31. You can also attend one of these information sessions:

  • In-person: Jan. 21 at 7 p.m., Prairie Waters Elementary (201 Invermere Drive, Chestermere)

  • Virtual: Jan. 22 at 7 p.m., via Zoom (passcode: PWE)

Why it matters:
The school can only switch to alternating full-day Kindergarten if approved by the Board of Trustees. The process:

  1. Parents raise the idea with their school council and principal.

  2. Public engagement gathers feedback from families of children ages 0–4. At least 65% of respondents need to be in favour for it to move forward.

  3. The principal recommends next steps to the superintendent, who may take it to the Board for approval.

  4. If approved, the program could start as early as the next school year.

Things to consider:

Benefits

  • More time for play and learning

  • Fewer weekly bus rides for long commutes

  • Some kids may feel more ready for Grade 1

  • Fewer daily transitions and simpler drop-off/pick-up

Challenges

  • Full days may feel long for some five-year-olds

  • Short attention spans can make longer days tricky

  • Playtime may be reduced in favour of academics

  • Some kids may experience separation anxiety

Parent feedback shapes the decision, if you have a child entering Kindergarten soon, now’s the time to have your voice heard.

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Kim Soderberg McRae
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