Several local groups and organizations are helping families during the ongoing teachers’ strike in Alberta. The strike, which began on October 6, has kept teachers out of classrooms across the province as talks with the government continue.
In Cochrane, while teachers wait to return to the classroom once a fair agreement is reached, several groups and organizations have stepped up to help families with children navigate these uncertain times.
The Cochrane Family Resource Network (FRN), which usually offers programs for children from birth to age six, has expanded its services to assist families affected by the strike. Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) is also available to help families find resources during this difficult time. More information is available through Cochrane Community Programs & Services.
The Spray Lakes Sawmills (SLS) Centre is offering day camps to help parents with childcare while schools are closed. The camps run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with before-care available from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and after-care from 4 to 5:30 p.m. They are open to children in kindergarten through Grade 7. More information is available through SLS Centre Day Camps.
The Boys and Girls Club of Cochrane and Area has extended its out-of-school care to run during regular school hours, helping children maintain a routine and stay connected. The extended hours, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., were made possible by flexible staff and support from local partners such as Village of Play and Tim Hortons Camp. More information is available through BGC Cochrane.
The Cochrane Public Library is offering school helper kits for students in Grades 1 to 9. The kits include a variety of tools to help children continue learning while schools are closed and are available to all families. Library members also have access to online resources, including BrainFuse Now and Solero. For more information, visit Library Homeschool Helpers.
