Briar Hill Families
What a wonderful stretch of weather we’ve been enjoying—seeing everything turn green has been a welcome reminder that spring is here and our school community is thriving alongside it.
A big thank you to everyone who supported our recent Used Book Sale. Through your generosity and the incredible efforts of our volunteers, nearly $4,000 was raised to support our school—an outstanding example of community in action.
We also celebrated our recent Briar Hill Values Awards, recognizing students who are demonstrating what it means to be resilient, caring, connected, and curious. We are proud of all our students—those recognized and those who continue to grow in these important ways every day.
For families who would like a closer look at learning and school life at Briar Hill, we also share regular updates and highlights on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briarhillschool/
Nathan deBoer
Principal
🛝 After School Supervision Reminder
Families are always welcome, and encouraged, to enjoy time together on the playground or field after school, it’s wonderful to see our community connecting in these spaces.
Please note that the Briar Hill Children’s Program uses these areas for students registered in before and after school care. Program staff are only able to supervise students enrolled in their program.
At dismissal, we ask that students be picked up at the bell and if families choose to remain on school grounds, children should be supervised by their parent or caregiver.
Thank you for helping us keep all students safe while supporting shared use of our spaces.
📞 Phoning Home During the School Day
During the school day, if families or students need to get a hold of each other those messages are able to go through the office. Students may use the office phone if needed.
Reminder, personal devices (phones and smartwatches) are not to be used to contact home during the day, and we ask that after-school plans be arranged in advance.
Thank you for your support.
📝 K–6 New Families
We would love your help spreading the word about Briar Hill School! Our students are known, supported, and encouraged to grow, and many families find us through personal recommendations.
We currently have space available in Kindergarten and are welcoming new registrations for K–6, both in and out of area. Families are welcome to reach out to the office to arrange a private tour of the school.
If you know anyone exploring school options, please encourage them to check out Briar Hill!
📚 Class Lists for the 2026–27 School Year
In May, we begin the thoughtful and collaborative process of creating class lists for the upcoming school year. This process is carefully designed to support both individual student success and positive, balanced classroom environments. Our staff dedicates significant time and consideration to ensure each placement reflects the best possible fit for every learner.
When creating classes, we consider a range of factors, including:
- The complexity of individual and group learning needs
- Academic, social, and emotional development
- Alignment between teacher strengths and student needs
- Positive peer groupings and supportive friendships
Student voice is also an important part of this process. Each student will be invited to identify 2–3 peers who help them stay focused, engaged, and successful at school. You may wish to have a conversation at home about who your child feels are positive learning partners within their grade.
Given the many factors involved, we are unable to accommodate requests for specific teachers. We are confident that this comprehensive process allows us to make the best decisions for all students.
If there is important information about your child’s learning needs that you would like us to consider, please email Mr. deBoer by May 15 at nadeboer@cbe.ab.ca.
🏫 School Council Meeting
All BHS families are invited to attend our next School Council meeting. This is a great opportunity to stay informed, share your ideas, and contribute to the ongoing growth of our school community.
🗓 Date & Time: Thursday, May 7 at 12:15 p.m.
📍 Attend: In person or online via [Meeting Link: HERE]
Topics include:
- 2025–26 School Planning Debrief [SlideshowHERE]
- 2026–27 Enrolment Update
- AGM Parent Spending Feedback
Your voice matters—we hope to see you there!
📅 Upcoming Important Dates (April–June)
May
- May 6 – Volunteer Tea (8:50–9:50 a.m.)
- May 6 – Kindergarten Orientation (6:00 p.m.)
- May 7 – School Council Meeting (12:15pm)
- May 14 - Healthy Hunger (order Healthy Hunger HERE)
- May 15 - PD Day (No Students)
- May 18 - Victoria Day (No School)
- May 20 – Grade ½ Spring Concert (6:15 p.m.)
- May 28 – Pizza Lunch (Order Pizza Lunch HERE)
June
- June 1–3 & 8–9 – Lacrosse Residency
- June 4 – Fun Lunch (order Healthy Hunger HERE)
- June 10 – Welcome to Kindergarten
- June 18 – Pizza Lunch (Order Pizza Lunch HERE)
- June 19 – Grade 6 Farewell
- June 24 – Sports Day
- June 25 – Report Cards available on MyCBE
- June 26 – Last Day of Classes for students
