In Nanaimo-Ladysmith all Kindergarten students follow a gradual entry process.  This can be frustrating for students and families as they are eager to begin their Kindergarten year but beginning the year gradually enables us to have time to get to know each student and their family.  We will start off with "welcoming conversations" where we have the chance to meet with each family and student individually.  This time gives us the opportunity to welcome you to Chase River and get a chance to know you better.  Below is a brief outline of the gradual entry process:

• Tuesday, September 2nd - Kindergarten students DO NOT attend

• Wednesday (3rd) to Friday (5th) - Welcoming Conversations with each family (sign up sheet at WTK event on May 14th) 

• Monday (8th) and Tuesday (9th) - all students will attend 1/2 days (groups and times to be determined- please check emails for updates)

• Wednesday (10th) - students will be placed in classes and attend all day moving forward

Prior to meeting with us, please make sure you have filled out our Kindergarten Questionnaires that will be EMAILED TO YOU PRIOR TO OUR WTK EVENT IN MAY and again in  JUNE! (you don't have to fill it out twice). This also helps us to get to know your child before our meetings and how we can help them have a successful first year of school. Please feel free to share anymore information with us during our "welcoming conversations" as things can change over the summer break.  

Starting Monday, September 8th, all Kindergarten students will gather around the back of the school under the kindergarten area.  Your kindergarten teacher(s) will meet you here at the bell.  Please follow the arrows.  We will meet here, during gradual entry, every morning and at pick up, until Wednesday, September 10th.  Don't worry, we will show you where your child's new pick up spot is on Wednesday!

👈 Here is our gradual entry schedule. We will notify parents during our "Welcoming Conversations" which group your child will be in.  This does not mean your child will be with that teacher for the year.