On behalf of the staff at University School, I am delighted to welcome all students and families to the 2025–2026 school year. As the new Principal, I am truly excited to be joining this wonderful community and to begin this journey together. We are eager to reconnect with our returning students and to warmly welcome those joining us for the very first time. 

The year ahead is filled with opportunities for every student to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Together, we will embrace challenges, celebrate successes, and cherish the moments that shape each child’s unique learning journey. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated staff, supportive families, and incredible students to make this a memorable and inspiring year for all. 

School Start-up Information 

Tuesday, September 2, 2025 is the first day for students 

New Bell Times

Lunch and Recess Schedule – Grades 1 - 6 

• Recess: 9:56am -10:10am
• Lunch: 11:44am - 12:20pm
  o   Staggered lunch breaks during this time 

Grade K - 6 Students

Grade K - 6 families can expect an email from their child’s teacher(s) by the end of the day on Thursday, August 28 welcoming students to a new school year, as well as explaining the details of the first few days including: 

• meeting spots for the first day
• lunchtime
• materials to bring
• any other pertinent information to ensure a smooth start 

Kindergarten Staggered Start

Tuesday, September 2 

• Kindergarten AM – Students whose last names begin with A-H attend
• Kindergarten PM – Students whose last names begin with A-M attend

Wednesday, September 3

• Kindergarten AM – Students whose last names begin with I-Z attend
• Kindergarten PM – Students whose last names begin with N-Z attend

Thursday, September 4

• All Kindergarten students attend
  o   Kindergarten AM group - 8:00am - 10:52am
  o   Kindergarten PM Group 11:38am - 2:30pm

Friday, September 5

• AM Kindergarten attends only

Structures & Routines

As we begin a brand-new school year, there is so much to look forward to! At the same time, we know that moving from the relaxed days of summer into the routines of a full school day can be a big adjustment for some students. Our teachers will be introducing classroom routines and structures designed to support students’ well-being and learning. 

Families play such an important role in this transition, and we encourage you to establish positive routines at home—such as regular bedtimes, healthy morning habits, time for reading, family activities, physical exercise, and thoughtful management of screen time. Throughout the year, we will continue to share resources and strategies to help support these areas.

As the new Principal, I look forward to meeting students and families, building strong connections, and working together to ensure this year is filled with joy, growth, and meaningful learning experiences for every child. 

For updates on key dates, announcements, and helpful resources, please check our school website or reach out to the school office at 403-777-6240. 

Thank you for trusting us with your child’s learning journey. We are excited for a wonderful year ahead. A year filled with discovery, success, and special moments we will celebrate together. 

Jennifer McTighe 

Principal University School