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More Frequently Asked Questions

June 12, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is it important for my child to attend their catchment area school?

Attending catchment area schools is beneficial because:

  • Children can walk or bike to school and stay with neighbourhood peers.
  • It ensures all schools maintain healthy programs and diverse offerings.
  • It supports small class sizes for better learning environments. 
  • Schools receive funding based on their catchment area.
  • It helps avoid extra expenses and resource strain.


Q: Can my child attend a school outside our catchment area?

Yes, you can apply but acceptance is not guaranteed. It depends on the school’s space and resources. The provincial guidelines prioritize:

  • Students designated for that school.
  • Students within Winnipeg School Division.
  • Students outside of Winnipeg School Division.


Q: Can my child visit open houses outside our catchment area?

Ideally, schools hosting information sessions should only host students from their designated feeder schools within the same catchment area, or those interested in attending for specialty programming. Visiting schools outside the catchment area is not encouraged to ensure proper alignment with divisional policies. 


Q: When can I apply for a School of Choice for my child?

First, all students must register with their catchment schools first BEFORE applying for a School of Choice. Applications for School of Choice are accepted for the next school year between March 3 and May 15, 2025. WSD will inform families of application results by the last week of the current school year, at the latest.


Q: How can I apply for a School of Choice for my child?

The School of Choice application process is different for students, depending on whether they live in Winnipeg School Division. 


Within-Division Students

Email a Kindergarten to Grade 12 Within-Division application form to schoolsofchoice@wsd1.org no later than May 15.
A printed copy can be dropped off at Superintendent’s Office, Winnipeg School Division, 1577 Wall Street East no later than May 15.


Outside-Division Students    

Email a Outside-Division application form to schoolsofchoice@wsd1.org no later than May 15.
A printed copy can be dropped off at Superintendent’s Office, Winnipeg School Division, 1577 Wall Street East no later than May 15. (Four signed copies of the form are no longer required.)
All School of Choice Applications are time-stamped and processed in accordance with provincial guidelines. 


Q: What vocational schools are available in Winnipeg School Division?

The division offers two vocational senior years schools:

  • Tec Voc: For Grades 9 to 12, providing outstanding vocational and academic programming.
  • R.B. Russell: For Grades 9 to 12, combining excellent vocational programs with rich academics.


Q: What are the options for alternative senior years programs in Winnipeg School Division?

Winnipeg School Division offers:

  1. Argyle Alternative School: For Grades 10 to 12 with a personalized, project-based approach, supported by Big Picture Learning principles. 
  2. Children of the Earth: For Grades 9 to 12 school focused on Indigenous ways of being, supported by Big Picture Learning principles.


Q: Are there any specialized language programs other than French for early and middle years students?

Yes, WSD offers language programs at:


Q: What international and sports programs are available for senior years students?

WSD provides:

International Baccalaureate (IB) Program at École Kelvin High School for Grades 10 to 12.

Hockey and Softball Academies at Collège Churchill High School for Grades 7 to 12.


Q: Are entrance exams required for my child to join specialized programs?

No, entrance exams are not required for any program. All learners are welcome to register for the program of their choice, such as French Immersion, Vocational, International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced Placement (AP), or others. Families are encouraged to review and understand the program's expectations before enrolling.


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