Welcome to Kindergarten: A Community-Centered Start with Lester B. Pearson
by Simone Viger
On a bright, sunny morning, the school yard outside LaSalle Junior School buzzed with excitement and anticipation. Families waited outside for the Welcome to Kindergarten orientation, a special event hosted by the school to help young students and their parents transition smoothly into K4 and K5.
On Monday, between 9:00am and 11:30am, we will be having our K4/K5 orientation.”
This event, described by organizers as a “salon de la maternelle”, was designed to give parents access to a wide network of community partners.
The goal: to share critical early childhood information in an inviting, collaborative setting—and to inspire a model that could be replicated in schools across the board.
A Warm Welcome and a Structured Start
Parents entered through the main office while students made their way into the Kindergarten entrance. Inside the gymnasium, tables lined the walls, each one hosted by a community partner offering tools and resources. Over 50 families attended, gathering materials, asking questions, and connecting directly with people who will be part of their child’s school journey.
During a short but informative presentation, families learned about:
- School hours
- Field trips
- Daycare options
- Health, safety and allergy protocols
- How to build a sense of community from day one
They also received tips on preparing children for school routines: how to open their own thermoses, maintain consistent sleep schedules, and develop confidence in asking for help or expressing their needs.
A Glimpse into Kindergarten Life
Down the hall, the Kindergarten classrooms were alive with activity. Children played with play dough, matched animal figurines, explored the kitchen play center, and chatted with new friends.
“What’s your name?”
“Can you find the green train for me?”
“Thank you for reminding me and using your words.”
Partners in School and in Community
The success of the orientation was thanks in large part to the strong support from community organizations who offered their expertise and presence:
Emily Miller – Lester B. Pearson School Board
“I’m the link between the family, the school-community.”
As the First School Transition Agent, Emily plays a vital role in helping children (and families) transition into the school environment from K4 through Grade 1.
“I’m here to create that foundational aspect for parents… so that they feel supported and loved.”
Astrid – CLSC School Nurse
“I’m here to explain the importance of vaccination, of vision, dentist, and everything that has to do with the health of our kids.”
Astrid visits the school twice a week to support both staff and families. Her presence during the year includes coordinating vaccination campaigns, answering health questions, and reinforcing nutrition and wellness practices.
Kendra Horn & Lane Champang – CLSC Programs (JED & Agit-Tôt)
“We work at schools, we work just to meet the child where the family needs us.”
Offering voluntary support to families, these programs adapt to family needs—whether through school-based group work or home visits—always focusing on early intervention and collaboration.
Martha Kadou – CLSC, Healthy Schools Approach
“It really is to support the schools… and what the parents and families speak.”
Martha helps schools promote healthy environments by supporting programming in areas like violence prevention, sexual education, and transitions from kindergarten through high school.
Montreal Public Health – Positive Mental Health Team
“Mental health is like a plant… you have to water it with good, healthy habits.”
This team emphasized that mental health begins early. Their work includes administering student well-being surveys, organizing emotional learning activities, and providing free bilingual resources for families and staff.
“Parent participation and involvement is key to educational success.”
Octogone Library – LaSalle Public Library
“Seeing the face light up on the parents… is one of the best parts of coming here.”
The library supports both French and English school communities with programming, literacy events, and outreach. Their message to families: your public library is here to support your child’s academic and personal growth from day one.
Maddie Petegrasso – Montreal Special Needs Family Organization (MSNFO)
“Our goal is to help families be aware that we’re here… to make integration into school easier.”
Maddie, who founded the organization after raising a child with special needs herself, now helps families access 100% free therapy services—from occupational therapy to ABA—so long as they qualify under low-income guidelines.
“My daughter actually attended Junior, 20 years ago… it’s come full circle.”
A Lasting Impression
As the morning wrapped up, each parent left with a gift bag, valuable insights, and a sense of belonging. From early screening resources to community contacts, the event reinforced a powerful message: no one is alone in this journey. Families, educators, and community partners are all in it together—ready to support the success of every child.
Welcome to Kindergarten at Lester B. Pearson isn’t just an event—it’s the beginning of a community.
