Proposed K-8 Catchment Change for Riverview School
The Brandon School Division Board of Trustees has received a request to change Riverview School from a Kindergarten – Grade 6 school to a Kindergarten – Grade 8 school. It is the intent of the Board of Trustees to provide the community the opportunity to give their perspective regarding the potential change.
To ensure that all voices are heard, and the best decisions are made, we are conducting a survey to gather your valuable opinions and insights regarding this proposed catchment change. Your feedback and insights will help us understand the potential impacts and benefits of this expansion.
Brandon School Division has made similar transitions at George Fitton School, Green Acres School, Valleyview Centennial School, and Betty Gibson School. Former and current administrators have provided some insights regarding the transition process which are summarized below under the headings of Benefits and Challenges.
It should be noted that building improvements such as a larger gym would not likely be approved by the province in the near future.
Survey Link: Proposed Riverview School K-8 Catchment Change
Should you require this survey in an alternative format, please email: info@bsd.ca for assistance.
Benefits
- Lessened anxiety for students as they did not need to attend a new school for only two years before moving on to high school
- Increased sense of belonging
- Previous connections (peers and staff) already established in K-6
- Picking up students for various reasons was easier for parents
Challenges
- Having furniture and spaces conducive to this age group
- Additional considerations to put in place, such as sports team, Grade 8 celebration, student council, yearbook
- Increased demand on playground, library, and gym spaces with additional students
- Will take time to accumulate age-appropriate resources such as library books
- K-6 gym did not meet the standards for Grade 7-8 sports programs
- If small numbers of students, can limit opportunities in extra-curricular opportunities versus larger schools
- Different curriculum resources required for courses such as Physical Education, Art, Science, etc.
- Lack of changerooms for older students
- Washroom availability
Proposed Revised Catchment Areas
- Proposed Riverview School (Grades K-8) Catchment Map (opens in new tab)
- Proposed King George School (Grades K-8) Catchment Map (opens in new tab)