WHAT MAKES OLYMPIC HEIGHTS UNIQUE?: ~ Parents, communities and educators working together in the best interest of all children is a primary learning goal of the Calgary Board of Education and the staff of Olympic Heights Elementary School. Through this goal it is our intention to make each child’s learning experiences enriching and deeply satisfying.
Our Uniqueness ~ Three Learning Communities: Our school is organized into three learning communities (Kindergarten – grade 6): The Oval, Canada Olympic Park and Nakiska. Within each learning community, there are six to nine classrooms. This organization offers three main advantages: it reduces the anonymity that occurs within large schools; it provides opportunities for older and younger children to work together; and it creates a sense of belonging for the children. The large multi-purpose room has been named the Plaza to represent a gathering place.
Our Uniqueness ~ Inquiry Learning: Rich and engaging educational experiences that entice children into learning, to formulating important questions they want to seek answers to, and to being active participants in learning are presented. Quality standards for each child to achieve are set. Working alongside of experts deepens children’s learning experiences. There is a seamless approach in taking up inquiry topics. There are definite times throughout the day devoted to specific subjects; there is also time devoted to inquiry learning where the meaningful connections of subjects occurs. Technology, creative arts and literature are often infused in the inquiry studies.
Our Uniqueness ~ Peace School International: We are one of the members of the Peace School International organization. We are committed to fostering peace and resolving conflicts with peaceful resolution strategies.
Our Uniqueness ~ Global Citizenship: Our school has a beautiful blend of thirty-one cultural groups which increases our understanding of our global world and enriches our studies as we embark on international studies connected to the new Social Studies curriculum.
Our Uniqueness ~ Links with the University of Calgary: Participation in the U of C Masters of Teaching program presents an exciting venture for both experienced teachers and for the university students who get “real” experiences working directly in the school environment.
Our Uniqueness ~ Our School’s Three Pillars: In meeting the needs of the individual student, our school expectations emphasize socially responsible behaviour that includes respect for the rights and well-being of others, property and self. Discussions with children center on our three pillars.
Our Uniqueness ~Curriculum Breadth: Classroom teachers are responsible for teaching the core curriculum as well as creative arts and health. Specialist teachers are responsible for teaching physical education, music and French. A full-time resource teacher and an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher help meet the diverse learning needs of children. A technology specialist and part-time teacher librarian collaborate, plan and team teach with classroom teachers in deepening our inquiry studies.
Our Uniqueness ~ Diverse Opportunities: There is a deep commitment to environmental studies, to daily physical education and to the infusion of technology and creative arts. Extra-curricular activities provided in these areas nurture children’s imagination and develop their skills and talents.
Our Uniqueness ~ Parent Involvement: Parents play a vital role in all aspects of our school. On a regular basis, parents can volunteer in classrooms and the Discovery Centre. All parents are members of our School Council and Parent Association. The School Council is the advisory group and the Parent Association is the fundraising group.
Our Uniqueness ~ Student Leadership: Older students are provided with many opportunities to develop their leadership skills and to contribute their skills and strengths to our school. Opportunities provided include telephone monitors, technology monitors, equipment monitors, physical education leaders, patrols, recycling club and environmental club.
