Foothills School Division embraces diversity and inclusivity and strives to meet the needs of all learners. Our English as a Second Language (ESL) program strives to support and foster the rich and vibrant communities that are brought into each classroom and school through our cultural and linguistic diversity.

Support is offered to students who have a first language other than English. This support helps all learners in grades K - 12 acquire proficiency in English to allow them to integrate as quickly as possible into their grade level studies.

Families who speak a language at home other than English are requested to contact their child's school to ensure the school and classroom teacher(s) may plan for immediate programming targeted to each learner's language needs.

At the High School level, and before beginning his/her English Language Arts program, a student's English proficiency will be assessed to ensure placement at the appropriate level of instruction.  A five-credit course is earned for the successful completion of each level of the High School ESL Program -- levels 2, 3 and 4.  Students and their parents are encouraged to discuss this option with their respective school counselor.

Families new to Canada, where English is not their first language, are asked to register directly with their child's school and bring with them these required documents:

• Passport information
• Immigration documents
• Recent report card(s) from your child's former school

All inquiries about our English as a Second Language Program can be addressed by contacting our Curriculum Facilitator.

Foothills School Division offers a Preschool ESL Program available also to all young learners aged 3½ years by September 1st of the school year.   The ESL Preschool Program is found at the three Foothills schools offering Preschool: Big Rock School, Spitzee Elementary School and and Cayley School. 

Preschool is an Optional Program and each location charges a monthly fee. There is an opportunity to apply to Foothills School Division to help offset costs of the Preschool if families are experiencing financial difficulties and express a need.

Parents should register in person by visiting the Preschool. At the time of registration, please let the Preschool teacher know your child is an English as a Second Language learner.

Preschool inquiries can be addressed by contacting the Director of Early Learning.