Rocky View Schools (RVS) is seeking input to help shape attendance areas for the division’s three newest schools slated to open September 2014.
The consultation process will begin on Jan. 30 and parents in Airdrie and Chestermere are urged to get involved in determining the attendance areas for the new grades 5 to 8 school in the Airdrie community of Sagewood, grades 9 to 12 school in the Airdrie community of Prairie Springs, and Kindergarten to Grade 9 school in the Chestermere community of Kinniburgh.
The date, locations and times for the sessions are available at www.rockyview.ab.ca
“I would encourage people to be get involved and learn about how attendance areas are (determined) and learn the projections on enrolment,” said Superintendent of Schools Greg Bass. “It’s really about kick starting the process.”
Bass added he wants the community to know RVS is open to feedback on any issues of concern.
RVS will host a series of school-based meetings in January and February aimed at educating the affected parents of the factors influencing attendance areas, including student transitioning, transportation and staffing.
In addition to having the opportunity to ask questions and participate in small groups discussions, residents will have the chance to provide input through an online feedback forum.
RVS hopes to gain insight into and identify community needs and priorities through the online forum available on RVS’ website at www.rockyview.ab.ca
Residents will be given a second and third opportunity for input in April and May during two area-based meetings.
Residents will also be invited to make formal presentations to RVS board, according to John Wheatley, RVS’ director of facilities planning.
“Providing stakeholders with multiple avenues to get involved in attendance area discussions helps us develop alternatives that acknowledge the diverse interests of our school communities,” explained Wheatley.
“New schools are approved because our communities are growing. Integrating these facilities into our operations can be difficult and we encourage participation in the consultation process to develop an understanding of the transitions required. We consider our stakeholders’ input to be invaluable and want to ensure these schools’ attendance areas, which will be presented to the board of trustees for final approval, are supported by our public.”
The consultation process will likely be completed in the spring, as the board will make a decision on attendance areas in June.
Details of the consultation process will be made available as dates are set on RVS’ website under “Quick Links/Attendance Area Consultation,” accessible at www.rockyview.ab.ca
Parents and students affected by the attendance areas are encouraged to return often to the attendance area consultation folder on the website, as important information pertaining to the community consultation will be posted as it becomes available.
Residents with questions regarding RVS’ community consultation can contact Wheatley at [email protected]
