Child Care

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why did the school district initiate the REIQ process for child care providers?

  In alignment with updates to provincial policies and regulations, the school district initiated the Request for Expressions of Interest and Qualifications (REIQ) process to identify qualified third-party providers to operate on school district property. This approach supports our goals of expanding access to affordable, high-quality child care while promoting inclusivity, advancing Indigenous reconciliation, and aligning with our Child Care Policy and Strategic Plan.

• How did the school district ensure that third-party child care providers were informed about the transition to the new Request for Expression of Interest and Qualifications (REIQ) process?

  In June 2024, the school district formally notified all third-party child care providers operating on district property of the transition to a Request for Expression of Interest and Qualifications (REIQ) process for third-party child care operations. This notification included the conclusion of existing agreements in June 2025 and was issued individually to all providers in July 2024, ensuring current providers had clear and sufficient notice of almost one full year. 

  All existing third-party child care providers were eligible to participate in the bidding process, which opened in October 2024. The bidding process followed best practices and included clear articulation of submission and evaluation criteria. The District evaluated all proposals based on the REIQ criteria to identify successful proponents to provide services starting July 1, 2025.  

• How were the successful providers selected?

  The REIQ submissions were evaluated based on criteria such as vision and philosophy, organizational experience, commitment to diversity and inclusion, financial stability, and partnership experience.

  As is our standard practice, unsuccessful applicants will have the opportunity to participate in a debrief through the evaluation team to provide them feedback on their application.

• What will happen to my child care services if my current provider is ending their service in July 2025?

  Families will need to speak directly with their current provider about their operations and specific timelines for their programming currently located on school district property.

• Will I be able to transition from the existing child care provider to the new child care provider?

  For information about registration with the new provider, families must contact the new child care service provider directly. The school district does not manage child care registration for third-party providers.

• What if my child is already registered with an existing provider that is continuing to operate on school district property?

  If your current provider has been selected to continue operating on school district property, you may not need to re-register. Families should confirm with their child care provider regarding any updates or changes to their registration process.

• Does the school district generate profit from child care services?

  No. The school district does not generate a profit from leasing property to third-party child care providers. The fees charged for the use of school district property are set to cover only the direct and indirect costs incurred in making the space available for child care programs.

  For more details, read Policy F-302-Use of School Facilities for Child Care Programs.

• What will the child care fees be?

  Fees are determined by individual providers according to the specific requirements of their programs.

• Will there be any changes to the hours of operation for child care services?

  Hours of operation will vary by provider and site. Families should contact their provider directly for details about specific programming and hours.

• What happens if I am unable to secure a spot with the new provider at my preferred location?

  While the District works to expand access to child care, availability may vary by site. Families are encouraged to contact other nearby providers or explore additional child care options within the community.

• Will the new providers accommodate children with diverse needs?

  All selected providers are committed to promoting inclusivity and meeting the diverse needs of children and families. Families are encouraged to reach out to providers directly to discuss their child’s specific needs.

• How can I stay updated on the availability of child care spaces and other relevant information?

  Updates will be shared on our website and directly by child care providers as information becomes available. Families are encouraged to regularly check these sources for the latest details.