Teachers Welcome Incoming Students to Kinderfair

May 13, 2026 

Katie Julseth-White and Shauna Monkman start getting to know students and families months before the start of the new school year. In fact, transition planning for September 2026 has already begun for the two Kindergarten teachers. It’s part of Stitó:s Lá:lém Totí:lt Elementary Middle School’s goal to plan successful transitions for all students. 

“As Kindergarten teachers, we believe this is probably one of the most important transitions. Our focus is building strong relationships with students and families before school begins,” said Julseth-White.

Introducing students and families to the school and classroom routines early helps families feel welcome. Students come into the classroom with more confidence. This makes their transitions to full-time school a little easier. 

One of the ways schools in the Chilliwack School District do this is Kinderfair. Kinderfair is a day for students and families to visit their new school for hands-on activities and a school tour. At Stitó:s Lá:lém Totí:lt, incoming students make bracelets and special bags for the classrooms. These activities help build a sense of community for incoming students. 

Kinderfair runs at every elementary school in the district in May and June 2026. Find dates and times on the district website: https://earlylearning.sd33.bc.ca/kindergarten.

Children who are five years old on or before December 31 can register for kindergarten now. Learn more: https://earlylearning.sd33.bc.ca/kindergarten.