​Apologies in advance for the length of this message but I do ask that you take the time to read its entirety.

Welcome to the first official day of learning of the 2022 year. Our teachers have reached out to you with information on what to expect for learning experiences for your children. While paper-based learning options are available for all classroom tasks, some Grade 3-5 families have the option of choosing either virtual or learning packets as a preferred format. We ask that these families confirm with their child’s teacher prior to coming to the school for pick-up(if needed).

Our 1^st pick-up times for work packets at the school started last night and will continue this week during the hours of 8:30am-3:30pm. If these hours do not align well with your schedules, we encourage you to reach out to your child’s teacher or the front office (453-5409).

Although distance learning is not the preferred method of schooling, the Garden Creek staff are remaining positive and choosing to see this scenario as an opportunity to promote independent work and student ownership. We encourage families to try and keep a positive and resilient mindset as well!

As with previous distance learning scenarios, it is important that families and teachers keep an open line of communication in order to make this format work. Our teachers will be continuing with daily check-in opportunities. If faced with what feels like an overwhelming expectation of school work, we ask that families keep an open-mind, remain solution-driven, and make every effort to reach out to their child’s teacher for clarification/support.

With an uncertain end-date to distance learning, it is suggested that families do their best to maintain a level of engagement between their child and the school. Garden Creek believes that the mental health and well-being of your child depends greatly on their ability to connect with the school while maintaining their identity as a Creeker. By establishing daily school routines, parents/guardians can make all of the difference in making the best out of distance learning. Of course, not all family circumstances are the same so be sure to ask your teacher for advice in finding attainable and manageable alternatives.

Finally, keep in mind that even with your best efforts, student progress will still have its hurdles. Rest assured that upon your child’s return to Garden Creek, their teacher will re-evaluate their current levels of understanding and teach them where they are in their learning.

Thank you once again for your patience, understanding, and flexibility!

 Alex Yaychuk

Acting Principal​