Dear Banff Trail School Families,
It has been uplifting seeing students eagerly engaging in a variety of learning experiences over the past few weeks, as they become more accustomed to life in a new classroom. Complementary experiences have also begun, as our School Council offered a ‘Welcome Back’ gathering, and grade 4 students went on the first field trip of the year!
This week, our school will host our first round of learning conferences of the year. Although we are only about four weeks into the school year, these conversations serve an important purpose. While teachers have begun to learn about your child through daily classroom interactions, routines, and early learning activities, no one knows your child better than you do. These meetings provide an opportunity to share information that may help us better support your child throughout the year, whether that relates to their interests, strengths, learning preferences, challenges, motivations, or experiences outside of school. For some students, these discussions can also help establish a shared understanding of approaches, accommodations, and supports that will make learning as accessible and successful as possible.
Research consistently shows that strong partnerships between families and schools contribute positively to both student learning and well-being. For example, this recent paper speaks to how students whose parents are involved in their schooling are more likely to have higher grades and test scores, attend school regularly, have better social skills, show improved behavior, and adapt well to school, regardless of family income and demographics. One of the reasons these relationships are so important is that they allow parents and teachers to develop a common understanding of a child's needs and strengths, while working together toward shared goals. At the upcoming conferences, as appropriate, teachers may share some initial observations from these first weeks of learning, helping to shape next steps for the months ahead. Overall, though, everyone at Banff Trail School looks forward to welcoming families over the next couple days for this opportunity to further deepen relationships. Whether this is your first conference at Banff Trail School or one of many over the years, thank you for taking the time to connect with your child's teacher; these conversations help lay the foundation for a productive and supportive learning relationship throughout the year.
For your consideration:
Grade 3-5 Clubs: Club forms were sent home today with all grade 3-5 students (Thursday, September 24). Note that club signup is first come, first served, and many fill up very quickly. You can also download the form Clubs Grade 3 5 Signup 2026 27. A reminder that grade 1-2 clubs will be available for signup in April.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: As we approach the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (September 30), consider taking some time as a family to learn about the experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Even simple conversations can help children build understanding, empathy and respect. Here you can find the federal government’s dedicated page to the day.
Spirit/Theme Day: A reminder that our next spirit/theme day will be on Tuesday, September 29th. We invite all students, parents and staff to wear orange in recognition of Orange Shirt Day (which complements the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation).
Biking and walking around the school: I am always happy to see the many parents and students who bike and walk around the school area, notably during dismissal and entry. We want to model excellent road safety for all students, and as such would appreciate your help in encouraging proper use of crosswalks. We want to ensure that everyone arrives and leaves school safely!
School Drills: Each year, all CBE schools are required to conduct 6 fire drills, and 2 lockdown drills. We successfully completed our first fire drill last week. The two lockdown drills are conducted with the assistance of the Calgary Police Service, who ensure that the process is optimized.
CBE Sessions-Student Well-Being: The Calgary Board of Education invites all parents and guardians to join a live online series on supporting child and youth well-being. The series is hosted by the Recovery Alberta Community Education Service (CES) Program in collaboration with local experts from the Calgary community. Information can be found here.
Upcoming Dates:
Thurs, Fri September 24, 25: Learning Conferences
Tuesday, September 29: Spirit Day: Orange Shirt Day
Wednesday, September 30: School Closed in recognition of Truth and Reconciliation Day
October 5-30: Grade 3-5 clubs
Monday October 12: School Closed for Thanksgiving Day
Wednesday, October 14: School Council, 6:30pm
Monday, October 19: Non-instructional Day (school closed for students-Referendum Day).
Wednesday, October 21: Take Me Outside Day
Have a wonderful weekend with the family,
Ryan Turner
Principal, Banff Trail School