NEWS FROM THE DEN

Dear Elementary School Families,

I hope this message finds you well and thriving. As we step into February, we embrace a month filled with learning, growth, and community spirit.

Celebrating Kindness and Friendship:
February is the perfect time to focus on kindness and friendship, especially with Valentine's Day approaching. We will be organizing various activities that encourage students to show kindness and appreciation to their peers, teachers, and families. This aligns with our ongoing commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive school environment.

Black History Month:
Throughout February, our school will be engaging in meaningful activities to honor Black History Month. Students will have opportunities to learn about influential Black leaders, innovators, and artists who have made significant contributions to our society. We encourage families to have conversations at home about the importance of diversity and inclusion.

Winter Weather Reminders:
As the winter season continues, please ensure your child comes to school dressed appropriately for the weather. Layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots are essential for outdoor play. In the event of severe weather, we will communicate any school closures or delays promptly through our usual channels.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Together, we create a nurturing and dynamic learning environment for our students.

The Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) returning student registration process for 2025-26 takes place Feb. 10-24, 2025. Through the online form, all families will confirm the school and program their child will attend next year or advise the Division if they aren’t returning. For students who want to attend a non-designated school next year, these requests must be submitted through the returning student registration process—acceptance is based on available space.

On February 10, the parent/guardian on file in PowerSchool identified as the Permission Click contact for each pre-kindergarten to Grade 11 student will receive an email through Permission Click with a link to the form. If your family hasn’t received any Permission Click forms this school year, contact the school office so we can investigate any technical issues before registration season.

Is your child turning five on or before Dec. 31, 2025? If so, it’s almost time to register for kindergarten.

Kindergarten registration opens for the 2025-26 school year on Feb. 1, 2025.

To help families prepare, Elk Island Public Schools has put together an online EIPS Kindergarten Tool kit to make the transition as smooth as possible. The kit includes information on registration, important dates, programming options, what to expect, eligibility, how to find your designated school, transportation and more.

Report an Issue

If you notice any concerns related to our school grounds or facilities, please feel free to report them directly to Strathcona County using the link above. Your vigilance helps us maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.

Heritage Hills Elementary has visitor parking located on the north side of the parent drop and go. Parking is also located directly on Heritage Hills Drive. Please refrain from parking in the staff parking lot or parking and getting out of your vehicle if using the parent drop and go. A steady flow of vehicles in the drop off areas ensures access to all and a safe drop off area for all students.

At Heritage Hills, we believe that respect is foundational to creating a positive and nurturing school community where everyone feels valued and heard.

Respect means treating others with kindness, listening actively, and appreciating the differences that make each of us unique. We encourage students to practice respect in their interactions with peers, teachers, and everyone they encounter.

At home, you can support this value by:

• Model respectful behavior by showing kindness and listening to your child.

• Encourage gratitude by helping your child write thank-you notes or acknowledge others’ efforts.

• Set expectations for respectful communication, both at home and online.

• Discuss respect for diversity by celebrating differences and teaching empathy.

Together, we can help our students develop a deep understanding of respect and its importance in building strong relationships and fostering caring environments.

Thank you for your continued support in fostering these values in our students.

EIPS’ Annual Education Results Report 2023-24 is now available online. The report details how EIPS is doing relative to Alberta Education’s performance measures; how it’s supporting students to achieve the best possible outcomes; and its successes, challenges and priority strategies moving forward. A brief overview of the report is also available.