Countdown to Kindergarten: School started early for Rainbow’s youngest students

School was off to an early start for Rainbow District School Board’s youngest students. Some 430 children beginning school this fall took part in the Board’s Kindergarten Camp, a five-day program that ran from Monday, August 23, 2021 to Friday, August 27, 2021.

Children spent three hours per day with qualified teachers and designated early childhood educators to get a preview of daily routines in preparation for school, including proper hand hygiene and physical distancing. Children also enjoyed activities through indoor and outdoor exploration and inquiry.

“Kindergarten Camp introduces children to Rainbow Schools and the wonderful experiences that await them in Kindergarten,” said Director of Education Bruce Bourget. “Children had an opportunity to become familiar with staff and surroundings, meet classmates, and get excited about school.”

“Children immersed themselves in sensory, socialization, problem-solving and fine motor activities,” said Algonquin Road Public School teacher Kathy Juhas. “And when the first day of school comes, they will see some familiar faces, which will help ease their transition from home to school.”

Three-year-old Aurora Boudreau from Algonquin Road Public School enjoyed the play centres. “I like squishing bouncy balls in the sand,” said Aurora. “And I like seeing some people.”

If you have not registered your child for school, there is still time to do so.

Please contact the Rainbow School in your area or visit rainbowschools.ca.

The first day of school is Tuesday, September 7, 2021.

There will be no early dismissal on the first day.

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Media Contact:

Nicole Charette, Senior Advisor,
Corporate Communications and Strategic Planning,
Rainbow District School Board, 705-674-3171, ext. 7217.

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Algonquin Road Public School student Kriyan Amin enjoys a sensory station with sand during the school’s Kindergarten Camp.

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Andi Spooner, a Kindergarten student from Algonquin Road Public School, enjoys an electronic version of  “Miss Spider’s Tea Party” by David Cook.

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Algonquin Road Public School Kindergarten student Lachlan Rivers builds a campfire with friends.

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Alexander Public School student Harrison Najgebauer enjoys some outdoor play with hoola-hoops at the school’s Kindergarten Camp.