A local elementary school opened its doors to the community for its JK open house and the principal reports it was a busy scene.
Principal Diana Bala said 50 adults and 41 children attended the recent open house at École St.-Jean Baptiste.
“It was a full house,” said Bala. “It felt really rewarding to see a good turnout for something like a kindergarten open house. It was a pleasure to meet the children and their families/new families and share a glimpse of the wonderful experiences their child will have with us next school year. We are excited to partner with parents in their child’s educational journey and look forward to creating a fun and engaging learning environment together.”
Bala said for a Kindergarten open house, the main messages are usually about creating a supportive and welcoming environment for students and parents. The school wants to emphasize it is “a safe and nurturing space where children will grow and thrive.” Bala said they want to make sure parents know that their involvement is valued and that everyone is there to support their child’s learning and development.
According to Bala, they want to express excitement for the upcoming school year and the activities, learning, and fun the children will experience.
“This helps set a positive tone and shows that everyone is eager for the journey ahead,” she said.
It is made known to parents they are always welcome to ask questions and stay involved.
“This could include how to communicate with teachers, important dates to remember, and any ways parents can contribute or support their child’s learning,” she told the RTT.
Bala said another purpose of the open house was to highlight the importance of the school community, including the connections between students, teachers, and families. She said it encourages a sense of belonging and togetherness right from the start.
Among those on hand at the JK open house were the Kindergarten teachers, administrative staff and support staff such as ECE and teaching assistants. Also there were volunteers from student council including president Lucas Lawrenson, Violet Rosati and Ethan Matenda. They helped give tours of the school, engaged with younger students to make them feel comfortable and helping with activities in the classrooms.
Parent council members such as president Laura Gauthier, Rebecca MacDonald and Kandice Cramer assisted as well. They helped welcome students and parents and assisted with check-in.
Michael Collins presented STEM programs to inspire children to pursue career fields such as science, technology, engineering and math.
Bala said they tried to promote other initiatives such as early literacy programs, arts and music, parent involvement programs and physical education and health programs.
“Many parents are interested in how schools incorporate physical activity and wellness into the day. We always highlight gym classes, outdoor play, and other wellness initiatives,” she said.
Bala also pointed out Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) programs at École St.-Jean Baptiste.
“It is important for our students to build emotional intelligence and resilience through school programs. We have programs that teach empathy, problem-solving, and conflict resolution that's a key for parents looking to support their child’s development,” she said.
JK enrollment is around 25 children right now.
École St.-Jean Baptiste is located at 365 Fryer St. For more information, visit https://saintjeanbaptiste.cscprovidence.ca/ or call 519-736-6427.
By Ron Giofu
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