Dear Simons Valley School Families

Welcome to the 2025–26 school year! I hope you enjoyed a summer filled with moments of rest, fun, and time together with family and friends. It is with excitement that we open our doors to another year of learning, growth, and community. A very warm welcome goes to our new kindergarten students and to families who are joining the Simons Valley School community for the first time. We are so glad you are here and look forward to building strong connections with you as your child begins their journey with us.

This year, our whole school will continue to focus on well-being, creating a safe, caring, and supportive environment where every child can thrive. We know that students learn best when they feel valued, capable, and connected. 

As we step into the year ahead, I am excited about the learning, laughter, and possibilities that await our students. Together, with families, staff, and students, we will nurture curiosity, celebrate diversity, and build a community where everyone belongs. Thank you for entrusting us with the privilege of guiding your child’s learning.

Below are some important pieces of information.

Simons Valley School – Back to School Update

New School Times
A friendly reminder: the 2025–26 school year begins on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at 9:02 AM.

  • Morning: 9:02 AM – 12:13 PM
  • Lunch: 12:13 PM – 12:55 PM
  • Afternoon: 12:55 PM – 3:35 PM
  • Early Friday Dismissal: 1:05 PM (No lunch, snack only)

First Day Information

Meeting in the morning areas on the first day of school Meeting Areas and Grade Door Map 

  • What to bring on the first day
    • Backpack (labeled with student’s name)
    • Indoor running shoes (non-marking, to be left at school)
    • Healthy snack and lunch (nut-aware, as some classrooms are nut-free)
    • Water bottle (refillable, labeled)
    • Weather-appropriate clothing (jacket, hat, mitts, boots as needed)
    • Positive attitude and readiness to learn!

Traffic Safety Updates

The City of Calgary, in collaboration with SSTAG and Ever Active Schools, has made improvements to help keep our students safe:

  • Temporary curb extensions have been installed at:
    • Sandarac Dr NW (120m east of 14 St NW) – Completed
    • Sandarac Dr & Sandalwood Ga NW – Completed
    • Sandarac Dr & Sandstone Dr NW – Pending installation (expected before September)
  • Updated signage will be installed along school frontages in Sandstone.
  • Slope remediation is also taking place in MacEwan along a frequently used walking route. Paths are expected to remain open, though caution is advised. Learn more here.

Safety and Transportation Updates

As we begin a new school year, we want to ensure that all students arrive safely and smoothly each morning. Please help us keep drop-off safe for everyone by following these important guidelines:

  • Use the designated drop-off zone only — do not stop in crosswalks, bus zones, or staff parking lots.
  • Pull forward as far as possible in the drop-off lane to keep traffic moving.
  • Stay in your vehicle — students should exit quickly and independently from the passenger side. Please depart as soon as possible to make space for others.
  • Please note the daycare vehicle designate drop off zone located on Sandarac Drive (east of bus stop).
  • Do not U-turn or back up in front of the school.
  • Please do not enter the Sandpoint Park townhouses area.
  • Walkers should use sidewalks and crosswalks, following the directions of staff or patrols.
  • Arrive on time — doors open at 8:52 am and learning begins promptly at 9:02 am.

Your cooperation keeps our school community safe and respectful for all. Thank you for modeling safe and caring citizenship for our students.

Additionally, we were informed last spring that we will now have 5 buses.  Due to the increased number of buses and students along with safety considerations, the buses will arrive in the following formation (see attached picture below).  Please note that all of the exits will be blocked prior to 3:30pm or possibly sooner.  The parking lot is not available for families.  You are encouraged to use the kiss and drop area for drop off and pick up or park in the community and walk to and from school.

Bus Parking


Kindergarten Staggered Entry

Our kindergarten students will begin the year with a staggered entry. Families will receive specific details directly on Friday.

In addition, our School Council will host a Kindergarten Parent Welcome Meeting (with treats!) on Tuesday, September 2nd. This is coordinated with your student’s assigned staggered entry time.  See below for the times (9:02-10:10am, 10:50-11:58am, 12:39-1:50pm, 2:25-3:35pm). We will have some snacks and share some info about the school, the school council, and answer any questions.

We are excited to begin another wonderful year of learning and community together.

For all school information, please visit our website: simonsvalley.cbe.ab.ca.

With gratitude and anticipation,


Chris Hooper
Principal, Simons Valley School