Get Ready for Kindergarten at a Kickstart Event

Monday, Feb 02, 2026

Grand Erie District School Board is hosting a series of regional interactive events over the coming weeks to help families with little learners prepare for successful starts to school in September. Kickstart to Kindergarten aims to connect families with educators and resources in preparation for the milestone.

“Grand Erie’s early-years staff thoughtfully plan these events and connect families with community resources to support a smooth and confident start to school,” said JoAnna Roberto, Director of Education. “Kindergarten in Grand Erie is a vibrant, welcoming experience grounded in learning and exploration where our youngest students strengthen problem-solving skills, build meaningful relationships and gain a new sense of themselves in the world.”

By registering for the event nearest them, families will secure a timeslot to connect with community partners including the LookSee developmental screening. Early connections with these resources can significantly benefit families who may wish to participate in further screening through the Lansdowne Children’s Centre or Haldimand-Norfolk REACH before their child begins Kindergarten. Families are welcome to visit a Kickstart event on a drop-in basis, but registering for a timeslot ensures they make the most of their visit. 

"By attending an event, families will discover the active, inclusive learning environments that our schools provide, with the intention of fostering creativity, curiosity and a lifelong love of learning," said Lisa Munro, Associate Director of Curriculum and Student Achievement. “This is a great first step on the journey to starting school."

Kickstart events are open to all families with a child starting Kindergarten in September at a Grand Erie school. For more information and to register for an event near you, please visit the Kickstart to Kindergarten page.

Kickstart Events:

  • Burford District Elementary School: February 10
  • Major Ballachey Public School: February 17
  • Walter Gretzky Elementary School: February 25
  • Thompson Creek Elementary School: March 5
  • Jarvis Public School: March 23
  • Walsh Public School: March 25

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