The Early Learning Program is a Ministry of Education initiative that brings full-day kindergarten to Ontario starting in September 2010 with full implementation by September 2015. There are two components to the program — the Core Program which represents the full-day classroom component and the Extended Day Program which represents the before and after school program.
In the Core Program certified teachers and registered early childhood educators work together to deliver the Full Day Kindergarten Program. Students receive instruction and play-based learning with both the teacher and the early childhood educator. The students develop their capacity in language and mathematics, and build a strong foundation for future learning. In addition they engage in healthy physical activities and enjoy arts education. Full Day Kindergarten offers students the opportunity to develop skills to become more comfortable in social settings and to interact with their peers and the adults who guide them. The Extended Day Program is led by registered early childhood educators.
In September 2010, 1,319 children were enrolled in full-day junior kindergarten and senior kindergarten at the following 22 OCDSB schools:
Arch Street Public School, Bayshore Public School, Blossom Park Public School, Cambridge Street Community Public School, Carson Grove Elementary School, Century Public School, Convent Glen Elementary School, Featherston Drive Public School, General Vanier Public School, Glen Cairn Public School, Grant Alternative School, Greely Elementary School, Jockvale Elementary School, Manordale Public School, Metcalfe Public School, North Gower/Marlborough Public School, Pinecrest Public School, Queen Elizabeth Public School, Robert E. Wilson Public School, W.E. Gowling Public School, W. Erskine Johnston Public School, and York Street Public School.
In Phase 2 the program will expand to include the following seven schools:
Bells Corners Public School, Connaught Public School, Dunlop Public School, Fallingbrook Community Elementary School, Munster Elementary School, New Stittsville School (opening in September 2011), and Robert Hopkins Public School.