Central Okanagan chooses school for kindergarten program

Bankhead Elementary will be the site for the Seamless Day Kindergarten pilot program in the Central Okanagan School District.

The District 23 board of education announced that on Wednesday night.

“The Board of Education is happy to see this expanded childcare support for families in our fastgrowing region,” said Moyra Baxter, Chairperson for the Board of Education. “We know that safe, inclusive learning spaces and care from trusted educators will foster student success.”

The pilot program is being expanded next year from the current four schools, to 25. The program uses certified early childhood educators to provide before- and after-school care in kindergarten classrooms as well as support learning alongside the classroom teacher. The initiative will use existing classrooms at Bankhead Elementary outside of school hours.

“We are glad that local families will get the value of the Ministry of Education expanding this successful pilot program,” said Kevin Kaardal, Superintendent of Schools/CEO. “It is great news for early learners to have a seamless day so they can continue to learn, play, and grow in their new school, beyond the regular school day.”