Approximately 1,285 children are expected to begin kindergarten in Prince Edward Island next week. Although most kindergarten classes follow the provincial school calendar, parents are advised to call their kindergarten to confirm when classes begin.

Another 21,000 students are expected to enter Grades 1 to 12. Classes for these students begin Thursday, September 6 and continue until December 21. The second semester runs from January 7 to June 25. The 2008 March Break will begin March 14 and end March 20. It will be followed by two additional school holidays, Good Friday which is March 21 and Easter Monday which is March 24, 2008.

Over 7,000 full and part-time students are expected to attend UPEI and Holland College this year. Holland College will hold an orientation for first-year students September 4 to 7 and classes will begin Monday, September 10. March Break is scheduled for March 17 to 21. Graduation ceremonies for most Holland College students are planned for May 22 to 25.

UPEI will hold New Student Orientation activities September 2 to 6. Classes begin Wednesday, September 5. The first semester ends December 17. The second semester runs January 3 to Aril 23. The second-semester break is scheduled for February 18 to 22. The UPEI Spring Convocation will be held May 10, 2008.

“This is a very exciting time for students as they begin new learning programs, meet new friends and establish new routines. It can also be a very anxious time for families, particularly for parents of young children who may be leaving familiar surroundings, going to a new school or riding the school bus for the first time,” said Minister Greenan. “By supporting our friends, neighbours and fellow employees during this transition period, we can help make going back to school a positive experience for everyone.”

For more back-to-school information, visit the Department of Education website at www.gov.pe.ca/educ and see background document "Did You Know?"