Registration is open for new Preschool and Kindergarten Students

Registration is open for New Preschool and Kindergarten Students

Please go CES school’s website to register your child.

https://www.westwind.ab.ca/studentregistration/new-students

Changes to the Program:
Three years ago Alberta Education changed their funding and program mandate for Pre-
Kindergarten programming for children ages 3 years 8 months to five years of age.  During the
transition period, Westwind has tried to maintain consistency for children and families.
However, with increasing student needs and reduced funding, our Early Learning Program
(previously known as Preschool) had to be adapted. Students will now be admitted into the
program based on need first, as identified through a screening and assessment process.
Needs for four year-olds can range from mild, moderate to severe.  Community Play Partners
(children without identified needs), will then be invited if space and staffing is sufficient to
support additional children.  This will be determined from year to year in later September,
after priority placements have been completed.

The purpose of the program will be to prepare children who would not otherwise be prepared
for kindergarten. Early Learning programming will support children by providing hands-on, play
based, developmentally appropriate activities where children can engage with peers and
develop in areas that include: social/emotional skills, cognitive skills, physical/motor skills and
speech/language. 

Booking a Screening Appointment:
If you feel your child has any delays in the skills described above, please register your child
through your school website registration link. If you are unsure, we encourage you to register
your child so a screening can take place. Registration will open on March 1.
You will be notified within 2 weeks for a screening appointment. If your child requires a full
assessment after the screening, you will be notified by one of the SLP team members for an
assessment time. The SLP will then be able to inform you after the assessment if your child
qualifies for Early Learning Programming.

Westwind will offer two different Early Learning Programs by age groups as defined by Alberta
Education:

 Children who turn 3 years old by Dec. 31 of the current school year (this program is for
children with severe delays only).

 Children who turn 4 years old by Dec. 31 of the current school year (this is for children
with mild/moderate and/or severe delays and include delays in speech/language,
behavior or have a current medical or physical diagnosis).

Fees: 
All fees will be collected in the fall. The Early Learning Program is:
 At no cost for students with severe needs.
 $100 for the year for students with mild/moderate needs.
 $1000 for the year for Community Play Partners.