School's Out

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Finding the right school for your children is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent and can significantly influence where you choose to live.

As a family-friendly city recently ranked by the Economist Group as one of the world’s most desirable places to live based on high scores in health care, safety, and education, Calgary offers a variety of top-tier schools, including public, private, and charter institutions. Each option provides unique advantages depending on your family’s educational and real estate priorities.

Whether you’re moving to Calgary, relocating within the city, or looking to be closer to a specific school, this guide will help you navigate your options and make the best choice for your family.

Understanding Calgary’s School Options

Here in Calgary, we’re fortunate to benefit from multiple schooling options, which, though potentially overwhelming to newcomers or first-time school parents, provide valuable and diverse choices for families.

Calgary’s public school system is known for its strong academics and program variety. Public school eligibility is typically determined by catchment areas, which define geographical boundaries for enrolment.

While all public schools are managed by the Calgary Board of Education (CBE), it’s essential to note that differences exist between schools depending on the school’s administration and values, teachers, and parent and community involvement.

 
Additionally, parents may also apply for specialized public schools outside their designated catchment areas, including:

Catholic Schools

While, like the CBE, they accept students from outside attendance areas, priority is given to Catholic students and those living within designated boundaries.

Charter Schools

Calgary is also home to several charter schools, which are publicly funded but independently run by non-profit organizations and are not religion-based.

 
While they follow Alberta’s provincial curriculum, charter schools have greater autonomy in teaching methods and educational philosophies. Unlike most public schools, charter schools generally accept students from anywhere in the city and are a more affordable alternative to private education.

 

Private Schools

Calgary’s many private schools offer a tailored educational experience, often featuring smaller class sizes, specialized curriculums, and unique teaching methodologies. While private school enrolment is not dependent on location, tuition costs and admission requirements vary.

Considering Your Family’s Preferences and Needs

Choosing the right school goes beyond academics—it impacts your daily routine, where you may choose to live, and long-term family goals.

For example, if you feel strongly about your child attending a high-ranking public school, being able to walk to and from school, and building friendships in your local community, then deciding what area to buy a home in will be significant. In this case, you should sufficiently research public schools as part of your home search process. Also, remember that homes in desirable public school catchment areas often have higher property values and strong resale potential.

 
Alternatively, if your child will attend a private or charter school, the quality of the neighbourhood's public schools may be less of a factor in your decision. You may instead focus on home size, amenities, and commuting distance to your chosen school.

Other factors we advise all families to consider include:

Commute times – Will your child’s daily school commute be manageable?
Future flexibility – Are you prepared for possible school changes as your child grows?
Multiple children – Will all your children attend the same type of school, or will you need options for different educational needs?

Do Your Due Diligence

Balancing your housing needs with your child’s education can feel overwhelming. But when you have a clear understanding of Calgary’s school system and your family’s needs, you can make an informed decision while avoiding some common pitfalls.

Double-Check Before You Buy

Never assume buying a home in an area guarantees admission to a specific school. Even with public schools, always verify your child’s eligibility with your school of choice. Conversely, if there’s an alternative public school you want your child to attend, you may not need to live in the area for them to go there.

 

If possible, try things on for size

When making a move, not everyone has the luxury of time. But if you’re moving to Calgary from another city and have the option to rent before buying, this can help you ensure a school or neighbourhood you’ve researched is right for your family before committing to buying there.

 
On the other, if you’re contemplating moving closer to a desired charter or private school to reduce commute times, consider giving your child a year or two there to ensure the school is a fit.

 
If you’re moving within the city to be close to a specific school, schedule a meeting with the principal and tour the school.

 

Plan for the Future

Children’s educational needs—and family real estate needs—can evolve over time. Avoid overextending financially just to live near a specific school, especially when good alternative options exist.

 
Be mindful of compromising on home features, location, and long-term resale value when deciding to send your child to a charter or private school they’ve yet to attend.

In Summary

Moving with children involves many decisions, and school choices play a significant role in where you choose to live. By understanding Calgary’s school system and aligning your home search with your family’s priorities, you can make a confident and informed decision.

If you need expert real estate advice tailored to your family’s educational needs,

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School Resources

Here are some school resources and links to schools with notable reputations in each above-mentioned category. Please keep in mind this list is not exhaustive and that rankings change from year to year.

Sunalta School (Community: Sunalta – SW Calgary): Known for its exceptional academic programs and focus on holistic learning, Sunalta School is highly regarded for fostering a supportive and enriching environment for elementary students.

Auburn Bay School (Community: Auburn Bay – SE Calgary): Located in the family-friendly community of Auburn Bay, this school provides a vibrant atmosphere that emphasizes student engagement and community involvement.

Brentwood School (Community: Brentwood – NW Calgary): With a strong focus on academic excellence and community values, Brentwood School offers a nurturing and dynamic environment for young learners.

Chris Akkerman School (Community: Marlborough – NE Calgary): Located in Marlborough, Chris Akkerman School is renowned for its academic programs and dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
Popular Catholic Elementary Schools.

St. Joan of Arc School (Community: West Springs – SW Calgary): A well-loved K-9 school in West Springs, known for its close-knit community and nurturing environment, with a strong focus on academic and spiritual growth.

St. Isabella School (Community: Auburn Bay – SE Calgary): Located in Auburn Bay, St. Isabella is known for its strong academic and faith-based education, creating a supportive, value-centered environment for elementary students.

St. Luke School (Community: Brentwood – NW Calgary): Situated in Brentwood, St. Luke School is celebrated for its academic programs, active parent community, and supportive learning environment for younger children.

St. Rita School (Community: Rundle – NE Calgary): Found in the northeast community of Rundle, St. Rita School is known for its dedicated staff and strong focus on values-based education, creating a supportive and nurturing atmosphere.

Westmount Charter School (Community: University Heights – NW Calgary): Specializes in meeting the needs of gifted learners from Kindergarten through Grade 12, offering an enriched curriculum.

Foundations for the Future Charter Academy (FFCA) (Multiple Campuses): Provides a traditional learning environment with a focus on academic excellence and character development, serving students from Kindergarten to Grade 12.

Calgary Arts Academy (Community: Glenbrook – SW Calgary): An innovative public charter school that engages children through arts immersion to become confident learners and spirited citizens.

Connect Charter School (Community: Lakeview – SW Calgary): Focuses on inquiry-based learning, integrating technology and outdoor education for students in grades 4-9.

Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School (Community: Okotoks – South of Calgary): An independent K-12 school offering the full International Baccalaureate (IB) program, emphasizing academic excellence and character development.

West Island College (Community: Acadia – SE Calgary): A co-educational private school for grades 7-12, known for its rigorous academic programs and leadership development opportunities.

Webber Academy (Community: Aspen Woods – SW Calgary): Serving Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12, Webber Academy focuses on academic achievement and personal growth within a supportive environment.

Fraser Institute School Rankings – Annual rankings of Alberta schools.
Alberta Education - Find a School – Official school search tool.
Our Kids - Calgary Private Schools – Private school directory.