Happy New Year, Ian Bazalgette Community.

We certainly hope that everyone had time to spend with friends and loved ones these last two weeks. The end of January marks the end of semester one, which means that Report Cards will soon be available for viewing. Updates on time of availability for Report Cards will be sent in the next Newsletter.

The end of January also marks an important point in the year for our Grade 9 students, with many High Schools offering Grade 9 Tours and Open House events to assist in making decisions about Gr. 10. As information is shared with us, we will pass on the information to our community. Remember that Assistant Principal Jamie-Dee Peterson is the main contact point regarding questions you may have related to transition to high school.

Upcoming Open House Events

Monday, January 29, 2024 - Forest Lawn High School

Monday, January 29, 2024 - Jack James High School 

Monday, January 29, 2024 - Lester B. Pearson High School

It is also important to note that winter weather is most often coldest during the months of January and February. Noting this, please remember the following:

Weather Reminders for CBE Families

Be Prepared for the Changing Weather Conditions

Calgary’s weather can include snow, cold temperatures and wind chill and that make getting to and from school challenging. Families are reminded to prepare and take extra caution during the winter months and periods of extreme weather.

CBE Schools Rarely Close Due to Snow or Cold Temperatures

All CBE schools will remain open to provide a safe, warm and secure environment for students.

Even with adverse weather conditions, assume that schools are open unless you hear otherwise from your school. Information regarding any school closures due to weather will be posted on the CBE websites and social media, and shared with local news media.

Be Prepared

Families should ensure they are prepared for all weather conditions.

• Children should be well prepared and dressed for the weather.
• Children will find it easier to walk through the ice and snow when school items and lunches are carried in a back pack.
• Children should not be left unattended at bus stops for any period of time, under any circumstances. They should have clear instructions on how long to await for the bus and what to do if the bus does not arrive.
• Families should ensure that they have back-up care arrangements if transportation is delayed. Children should have a warm place to stay before and after school (i.e. with a neighbour or a nearby relative).
• We respect parents/guardians right to make their own decisions about sending their children to school. If your child will not be attending classes please ensure you contact your school's attendance line to report the absence.

Transportation Delays

With changing weather conditions, roads may also be congested and slippery resulting in possible traffic and bus delays. Unusually cold or stormy weather can result in buses being delayed. Unexpected mechanical problems with the bus may also occur more frequently at this time of year. Children should be dressed appropriately for the colder weather as buses cool off very quickly.

We know the bus driver shortage this school year has had a negative impact on many families. We anticipate the shortage will continue throughout the school year. While we are working with our transportation providers for solutions, the snow and colder weather will make getting to and from school more challenging.

CBE Transportation does not adjust routes or bus stops due to weather conditions.

There are a variety of ways transportation providers provide real time route information for families. Note | In times when they are extremely busy, all service provider staff are dedicated to driving buses and they are not always able to accommodate this service.

• First Student, Southland Transportation, and Fenton use apps to post delays and messages. Learn more about how to download the app for your provider on our website.
• Calgary Transit service delays can be found on their website or their Twitter account (@calgarytransit).

Lastly, please see the latest School Newsletter under Resources.

The staff and I are looking forward to seeing students soon.

Steven Pike

Principal