Early Learning
Early Learning
Supporting lifelong learning through early childhood programs for young children and families.
Supporting Children in the Early Years
The early years, from birth to age 8, are a critical time in a child's development, laying the foundation for lifelong learning, health, and well-being.
During this formative period, children benefit immensely from rich, engaging experiences that nurture their physical, social, intellectual, and emotional growth. School District No. 67 is proud to offer programs that support children and families during these important years.
StrongStart
Welcome to StrongStart
The Early Learning program is designed to work in partnership with families and caregivers, their children, an Early Childhood Educator, and community partners to support children's early learning and development.
Community partners include School District No. 67 (Okanagan Skaha), Child Care Resource and Referral, Interior Health, Speech and Language, Supported Child Development, and other community agencies.
StrongStart is a free program for adults and their children from birth to age 5. The program provides opportunities for children and caregivers to learn together through play-based activities in a welcoming school environment.
The program is funded by the Ministry of Education and Child Care and sponsored by School District No. 67. It operates in cooperation with KVR Elementary, Columbia Elementary, Queen's Park Elementary, and Summerland Elementary.
Provincial Support
School District No. 67 gratefully acknowledges the financial contribution of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Education and Child Care.
StrongStart Resources
StrongStart Locations
StrongStart Locations
KVR Elementary
Days: Monday to Friday
Hours: 8:45 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Principal: Ms. J. Wingham
Early Childhood Educator: Kierstin DeRosier
Phone: 250-770-7697
Email: [email protected]
Columbia Elementary
Days: Monday to Friday
Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.
Principal: Mr. D. Tenisci
Early Childhood Educator: Chrissi Travers
Phone: (250) 770-7676 Ext. 6489
Email: [email protected]
Summerland Elementary
Days: Monday to Friday
Hours: 8:45 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Principal: Mr. S. McIntosh
Early Childhood Educator: Louise Watt
Phone: (250) 770-7671 Ext. 6629
Email: [email protected]
Queen's Park Elementary
Days: Monday to Thursday
Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Evening Program: Wednesdays, 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Closed: Fridays
Principal: Ms. J. Hicks
Early Childhood Educator: Fiona Nicholson
Phone: (250) 770-7680 Ext. 6018
Email: [email protected]
Ready, Set, Learn
Helping Your Preschooler Prepare for Kindergarten
Welcome to Ready, Set, Learn. This program is designed to support families as they help their preschoolers get ready for school.
As your child's first and most important teacher, you play a primary role in preparing your child for school. Your child's entry into Kindergarten is an important milestone, and getting off to a positive start can make a significant difference in future success throughout the school years and beyond.
Many factors contribute to a child's readiness for school, including:
- Confidence and self-esteem
- Positive relationships with friends and peers
- Language development
- The ability to communicate thoughts, needs, and ideas
- The ability to follow instructions and routines
- An environment that encourages creativity, motivation, cooperation, and persistence
Elementary schools throughout School District No. 67 invite families and children to visit their school and learn more about Ready, Set, Learn and other early learning opportunities, including StrongStart. Families are encouraged to contact the elementary school closest to their residence to confirm attendance at their school's Ready, Set, Learn event.
Ready, Set, Learn Brochure
Learn more about the Ready, Set, Learn program and how it supports families in preparing children for kindergarten.