What Are Junior High Schools in Calgary?
Junior high schools in Calgary serve students in grades 7 to 9. These schools help kids move from elementary to high school. Students are usually between 12 and 15 years old. Junior high schools in Calgary offer more subjects than elementary schools. Students change classrooms for different subjects. They have different teachers for each class.
Types of Junior High Schools in Calgary
Calgary has many types of junior high schools. The main ones are public schools. The Calgary Board of Education runs these schools. They are open to all students. They follow the Alberta curriculum. These junior high schools in Calgary are free to attend.
The Catholic School District also runs junior high schools. These schools teach Catholic values along with regular subjects and welcome students from all backgrounds. Many families choose them for their values-based approach.
Private schools Calgary also offer junior high programs. These schools charge fees. They may have smaller classes. Some follow special teaching methods. Others focus on certain subjects like arts or sciences. Private schools must still teach the Alberta curriculum.
Charter schools are another option for junior high. These are public schools with special focuses. They may teach in unique ways. They don’t charge fees. But they often have waiting lists.
Programs in Junior High Schools in Calgary
Junior high schools in Calgary offer many programs. Regular English programs are most common. French Immersion lets students learn in French. Late French Immersion starts in grade 7 for students who didn’t take French earlier.
Many junior high schools have special programs. Some focus on:
- Fine arts (music, drama, art)
- Sciences
- Sports
- Languages
- Traditional learning
These programs help students explore their interests. They can guide students toward future careers. Not all junior high schools in Calgary offer all programs. Parents should check what each school provides.
Daily Life in Junior High Schools in Calgary
The school day usually runs from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Students take core subjects like:
- Math
- Science
- English Language Arts
- Social Studies
- Physical Education
- Health
They also take optional classes. These might include:
- Art
- Drama
- Music
- Foods
- Woodworking
- Computers
- Second languages
Junior high schools in Calgary organize students differently than elementary schools. Students move between classrooms. They have lockers for their things. They follow timetables with different subjects each period.
How to Choose Junior High Schools in Calgary
Choosing the right junior high school is important. Most students go to their designated school. This is based on where they live. But families can also apply to other schools if there’s space.
When picking junior high schools, think about:
- Location and transportation
- Programs offered
- Teaching approaches
- School size
- Extra activities
- Support services
Visit schools during open houses. Talk to teachers and principals. Ask other parents about their experiences.
Registration for Junior High Schools in Calgary
Registration for junior high schools in Calgary usually starts in January. For public schools, parents register online. They need proof of address and the child’s birth certificate. For students changing schools, records from their old school help.
For special programs, there may be extra steps. Some need applications or interviews. Others might need tests or auditions. Private schools Calgary have their own registration processes. Check their websites for details.
Support in Junior High Schools in Calgary
Junior high can be a big change for students. Schools offer help during this time. Most junior high schools have:
- Guidance counselors
- Learning support teachers
- Peer support programs
- Homework clubs
- Mentoring
These supports help students adjust. They also help with learning needs. Students with special needs get extra support. English language learners get help too.
Activities in Junior High Schools in Calgary
Junior high schools offer many activities outside class. Sports teams are popular. They include:
- Basketball
- Volleyball
- Track and field
- Soccer
- Badminton
Clubs focus on interests like:
- Robotics
- Coding
- Yearbook
- Environment
- Leadership
- Chess
These activities help students make friends. They build skills beyond academics. They make school more fun and engaging.
Preparing for High School
Junior high schools in Calgary help students get ready for high school. They teach study skills. They help students become more independent. In grade 9, students take Provincial Achievement Tests. These check their learning in core subjects.
Teachers help students with picking courses for high school and explain different paths students can take. This helps with future planning. Some junior high schools arrange high school visits. These help students feel more comfortable about the change.
Parent Involvement
Parents stay involved in junior high schools in Calgary. Schools have parent councils. These groups help make school decisions. They raise funds for extra programs. They organize events.
Parents can volunteer in many ways. They can help with:
- Field trips
- Special events
- Fundraising
- Clubs and teams
Schools share information with parents through:
- Online portals
- Emails
- Newsletters
- Parent-teacher conferences
Conclusion
Junior high schools in Calgary offer many options for students. Each school has its own strengths. Families can find schools that match their needs. The right junior high school helps students grow academically and personally.
Junior high is an important time in education. It builds the foundation for high school. Junior high schools work hard to support students during these years. They provide quality education in a supportive environment.
Whether public, Catholic, charter, or private, junior high schools prepare students for future success. Take time to explore options. Visit schools. Ask questions. This helps families make the best choice for their children’s education.
