Happy new year, BP families! 

We hope that you've all had a relaxing and rejuvenating winter break. We are back at it this week with lots of updates. Please take note of the items below. 

Semester 2 Option Classes 

Semester 2 option classes will change on January 28. Students wishing to change options may submit a request form (available in office from February 3). Please note that we may not be able to accommodate all requests due to balancing class sizes and class availability for the specific time block. Option forms are due to the office no later than February 12, and will require a parent/guardian signature. Students are expected to attend their classes as listed on their schedule until a change has been confirmed by the main office. 

Athletics Update - Volleyball 

We have had many students turn out for tryouts this week. Competition for team selection is high. As such, in order to be selected for the team, students must not only demonstrate the needed volleyball skills, but also represent the character, citizenship, and academic commitment reflected at BP.  Additionally, students are expected to consistently attend all practices and games.  

Phys Ed Artist In Residence Update - Green Fools 

We are excited to announce that our Physical Education department will be offering the Green Fools Circus program again  this year from April 7-11! This program aims to enhance students' physical skills, coordination, and teamwork in a fun and engaging environment. 

Green Fools bring joy to schools through Circus. Circus is a non-competitive, confidence building, and team building activity that allows students to set and achieve goals in a fun and healthy way! They teach a variety of circus skills including:  

  • Juggling: Ball, Club and Ring juggling  
  • Balancing: Stilt Walking, Slackline, Tight Wire, Rola Bola, and Walking Barrel 
  • Coordination: Diabolo Flower Sticks, Poi, and Plate Spinning  

Please note that a non-refundable fee of $15 will be charged to your MyCBE account for participation in the Circus Program. This fee covers the costs associated with equipment, instruction, and materials necessary for the program. Please reach out your child's PE teacher if you will be away that week for PE.  

Looking Ahead – Grade 9 Provincial Achievement Tests (PATs) 

Alberta Education has recently released its PAT dates for May-June 2025.  All Gr.9 students in Alberta complete standardized assessments in core subjects.  Test results do not comprise part of a CBE student report card, however individual results are communicated to families and recorded in the Student Official Record. PATs are used for schools and teachers to ensure teaching and learning excellence.  As a result, we work hard to prepare students for success.  

We request that families consider the following dates and plan family events, tournament participation, or other absences from school at alternative times.  Please ensure your child is present at school leading up to, and on the dates of PATs.  

Grade 9 

Wed. May 27               French Language Arts (Part A, Writing) 

Thurs. May 29             English Language Arts (Part A, Writing) 

Wed. June 11              French Language Arts (Part B, Reading) 

Fri. June 13                 Mathematics (Part A, Mental Math) 

Mon. June 16            English Language Arts (Part B, Reading)  

 
Tues. June 17             Mathematics (Part B, Problem Solving) 

Wed. June 18              Social Studies 

Thurs. June 19            Science 

French for Parents Classes 

Chinook Learning Services offers courses specifically designed for parents and caregivers of CBE French Immersion students. For Winter 2025, Chinook Learning Services is offering French for Parents – Level 1. 

This eight-week course will help parents of immersion students learn or refresh their French language skills, build their network of bilingual parents and support their children’s learning at home. 

Check out the course description at French For Parents Level 1 

Check out the course content at Outline French For Parents Level 1 

BelCanFran Student Exchange Opportunity 

Come learn about exchange opportunities to France and Belgium. This opportunity is offered to interested families through an external organization, BelCanFran. While not sponsored or overseen by the CBE, dozens of CBE students have benefitted from enriched French language and cultural opportunities by studying and living abroad.  If interested, please see attached and contact Lise or Ron May. BELCANFRAN Brochure 

* of note, their parent meetings will be held before our next scheduled BPPC meeting, so it will be best to connect with them directly.

Important Dates 

  • January 14/16- Grade 7 Outdoor Ed Snowshoe Trip 
  • January 16- BP hosts a Grade 9 Parent Information Evening on high school registration process. What to expect from grade 9 transition to grade 10. 5:30-6:30 PM in gym.  
  • January 21/22- Grade 8 Outdoor Ed X Country Ski Trip 
  • January 27- Report Cards go live on MyCBE, IPPs sent home 
  • January 27- WCHS Open House (4-6 PM) 
  • January 28- Semester 2 options begin 
  • January 28- Wellbeing Symposium for select students 
  • January 30- BP Open House for Next Year Prospective Students (6:30-8 PM) 
  • January 31- Non Instruction Day- No school for students 


Have a great weekend! 


Rishma Hajee 

Principal | Bishop Pinkham School