Calgary is a city that takes great pride in its education sector, offering a comprehensive and award-winning system that caters to the needs of every student. The city caters to the educational needs of both parents seeking a new school for their child and students in search of the best educational opportunities, ensuring that there is something for everyone. In this article, we will explore the different types of schools available in Calgary and how SGG Real Estate Group can help you find the perfect neighbourhood based on your educational needs.

Early Education Options

Preschool education for three and four-year-olds is not mandatory in the Province of Alberta. However, many parents opt for formal education during this stage, and Calgary has a plethora of options available. Preschools are generally run by community associations or private teacher/owners, with tuition and program fees set by individual operators and are not subsidized. Programs are usually half-day in nature, available several times a week.

The Calgary Board of Education (CBE): Providing Inclusive Education to Students Across Calgary

The CBE is the public school board that operates programs from Kindergarten to Grade 12 in 220 schools throughout the city. CBE schools offer a variety of focused curriculums such as science, athletics, arts, or languages, with immersion instruction available in English, French, Spanish, German, and Cantonese. Online instruction is also available for students. The CBE is committed to inclusive education for all students, with Special Education instructors employed on an as-needed basis. Bussing is provided for 37,000 students from neighbourhoods where a school facility is not within reasonable walking distance. Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate programs are offered at selected high schools.

Calgary Catholic School District (CCSD): Delivering Quality Education Rooted in Faith

The CCSD is a separate school board offering Roman Catholic education in Calgary and surrounding areas. Instruction in immersion languages such as French is also available. Schools accept students from K-Grade 9 or Grades 7-12 in one facility, with Bishop Carrol offering a self-paced program for independent learners to earn their high school diploma. CCSD schools compete with schools in the public system in inter-school athletics in the City of Calgary and provincially.

Harnessing Specialized Learning: Charter Schools

Charter schools are publicly-funded independent schools granted a fixed-term charter to provide educational programming in a specific discipline. Calgary has several charter schools offering traditional learning, girls-only programs, science and technology, and gifted education programs. Some schools mandate that students wear uniforms, and school fees are higher than in regular public schools. Enrolment is not dictated by geography, and often a waiting list exists for charter schools.

Private Schools in Calgary: A Closer Look

Private schools in Alberta are funded in part by the province but mostly by students, with tuition and other education fees charged by each school. There are two types of private schools in Alberta - accredited and registered. Students at accredited private schools are required to write provincial exams, and teachers must be certified by the province of Alberta. Registered schools are not governed in this way by the province and do not receive funding. Specialized programs offered for student success include French & Spanish Immersion, International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, and National Sport School.

Final Thoughts

Calgary offers a wide variety of school options for students and parents, each with their own unique benefits and challenges. It is essential to consider each option carefully before making a decision. At SGG Real Estate Group, we understand the importance of selecting the right neighbourhood based on your educational needs. Our experienced agents can help you find the perfect location based on your school preferences, ensuring that you and your family enjoy a quality education in the vibrant city of Calgary.