Ecole St. Mary Hosts Open House to Showcase Facilities

Ecole St. Mary High School in Prince Albert is set to welcome prospective students and their families during its annual Open House on March 6 and 7, 2025. The event aims to provide an in-depth look at the school’s facilities and offerings, with Principal Dwayne Gareau leading the initiative.

The Open House will commence at 6:30 p.m. each evening, following an introductory address by Gareau in the school’s gymnasium. Doors will open at 6:15 p.m., allowing attendees time to gather before the tour begins. “We’ll present some key information about our philosophical principles and how the school operates, followed by guided tours of our various facilities,” Gareau explained.

During the tours, staff will showcase the school’s diverse spaces. Gareau emphasized the importance of exposing students to all areas, noting that “one interested student might be super excited to see one area. We show everything because some might not even know what they’re interested in.”

The Open House typically draws a significant number of visitors over the two days. Gareau highlighted the event’s role in easing the transition for both students and parents. “Transitioning into high school can be daunting, especially for families with their first child entering this phase,” he said. The event serves to alleviate some of the uncertainty surrounding this change.

Students and families often have varying comfort levels when it comes to exploring a new school environment. For some, it may be their first visit, while others may be familiar with the building. Gareau remarked, “Some will want to see the building again, while it’s a new experience for others. We aim to support everyone through this transition.”

Ecole St. Mary, situated in a city with multiple high school options, understands the importance of choice. “We respect that families are making decisions based on what’s best for them and their students,” Gareau noted. He believes that having different educational paths available allows families to find the right fit for their children.

Gareau added that the ability to choose not only applies to schools but also to classes and educational approaches within those schools. “It’s essential to have options because different students have different comfort levels and interests,” he said. This variety encourages students to be more engaged and motivated in their educational journeys.

The Open House offers an invaluable opportunity for families to ask questions and connect with school administration. Tours are typically led by Gareau alongside Vice Principals Jason Bourdon and Lydia McLeod. “Building those connections right away is important,” Gareau stated. It provides families with immediate access to school leaders, making it easier to establish rapport.

While the majority of attendees are Grade 8 students transitioning to Grade 9, Gareau indicated that the event also attracts older students and newcomers to the city. “Occasionally, we see Grade 10s, 11s, and 12s, who may be considering a shift in their educational direction,” he explained.

The upcoming Open House at Ecole St. Mary High School promises to be a welcoming and informative event for prospective students and their families, serving as a critical step in their transition to high school.