About Us

History

In 1959, a group of parents in Glamorgan decided to form an educational program to meet the needs of their children, themselves and their community. The program, the South Richmond-Glamorgan Community Kindergarten, was formed and has evolved into the Glamorgan Community Kindergarten Society. In 1973, the program moved from the Glamorgan Community Centre to Glamorgan School where classes were held in Room 1 until June 2009, followed by a move to Glamorgan Church in Fall of 2009. Incorporated as a Society in January 1974, when Alberta Education began funding Kindergarten programs, it continues to be operated by parents for children who will be 5 years of age by February 28th of each year.

The Glamorgan Community Kindergarten enjoys an excellent reputation in communities surrounding Glamorgan, as well as throughout the City. Typically, one half of our registrants are from within the area of Glamorgan, demonstrating our vast appeal. Our excellence is due to the continuity and dedication of our Teacher, Val Driedger, our Program Coordinator, Louise Hardy, and the commitment of our Board of Directors and LAC over the years.

 

Mission  Statement

Glamorgan Community Kindergarten Society provides children with the necessary skills to succeed in their lifetime pursuit of education.

We believe early childhood is a significant period in human development; therefore we specialize in offering a quality program to this age group exclusively.

We believe learning is most effective through interaction with the environment; therefore we offer endless opportunities for children to explore the world using their five senses.

We believe parents are primary agents in their child’s development; therefore we actively encourage parent involvement in the classroom and in decision-making.

We believe a positive self-concept is critical for success; therefore we create a nurturing and supportive atmosphere for all children.

We believe teachers are the vital link between our program and our children; therefore our teachers are qualified, enthusiastic, and informed about recent developments in education.

We believe a community focus is essential; therefore we support local efforts and utilize community resources.

We are ready to accept the challenges of the future so that children can continue building solid foundations at Glamorgan Community Kindergarten

 

Program Coordinator

Mrs. Louise Hardy first became involved with the Glamorgan Community Kindergarten when her daughter was enrolled in the program. Louise has stayed involved with the Kindergarten since that time, either on the LAC (Local Advisory Committee) or Board of Directors, seeing her other two children enjoy the program as well. In 1994 Louise was hired by the Board of Directors to be the Program Coordinator. She is responsible for all administrative functions and sees to the smooth operation of every facet of the Kindergarten. Holding her Bachelor of Education Degree, she has previously taught kindergarten, as well as various elementary grades, and when needed, Louise will still substitute for our Kindergarten.

 

Teacher

Mrs. Val Driedger brings to our Kindergarten a wealth of experience. She obtained her Bachelor of Education Degree in Edmonton at the University of Alberta and taught with the Edmonton Public School Board for 11 years before moviing to Calgary in 2001. Her Special Education Degree has provided her with a unique background which includes teaching preschoolers with special needs, teaming with a wide range of professionals and education support staff, and providing inclusive education in her kindergarten, grade one and grade two classrooms. She is a wife to Kevin and mom to three kids, Jennifer, Ben and Alison. She is an avid reader, downhill skier, mountain biker, piano player, and general life enthusiast! Feel free to come and meet Val at any time during the day in our classroom.

 

LAC

The Local Advisory Committee (LAC) is a volunteer committee made up of the Teacher, Program Coordinator and current parents.  They assume responsibility for the decision making involved in the day to day operation of the Kindergarten program.  Every parent is eligible to volunteer for a position on the LAC.  Each incoming LAC member will be provided with an orientation specific to the position s/he has chosen.  The LAC meets approximately once per month throughout the school year.  Everyone is welcome to attend any meeting, but please notify the hostess ahead of time.

 

Board of Directors

Our program operates as a non-profit, volunteer Society.  The Board of Directors is made up of former, present and future parents who assume legal responsibility for the operation of the program.  The Board provides continuity from year to year to ensure smooth operation and long range planning.  The Board consists of a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Directors, LAC Chairperson and Program Coordinator.  The Secretary and Treasurer also serve on the LAC.