March 31, 2025

Starting in September 2025, Cardinal Collins Catholic High School will move its early dismissal day to Thursday. This change ensures that all schools within Edmonton Catholic Schools follow a consistent schedule for instructional time, staff collaboration, and professional development.

For over 15 years, all schools in the Division have followed a Thursday early dismissal schedule, with Cardinal Collins being one of the only exceptions. This schedule change aligns our school with Administrative Procedure 130 – School Year Calendar, which sets scheduling requirements for all Division schools.

We understand that changes to school schedules may require adjustments for some students and families. We are committed to working with our school community to support a smooth transition.

For more information, please read the FAQ below. If you have additional questions, please contact our school administration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Cardinal Collins moving early dismissal from Friday to Thursday?

This change aligns Cardinal Collins with all other ECSD schools, which follow a Thursday early dismissal schedule. For over 15 years, our school has been one of two exceptions. Moving to a Division-wide schedule ensures consistent instructional time, staff collaboration, and professional development in accordance with Administrative Procedure 130 – School Year Calendar.

Why does Edmonton Catholic Schools have early dismissals?

Early dismissals provide dedicated time for teacher collaboration and professional development, directly benefiting students. Teachers use this time to plan lessons, review student progress, and participate in training to improve instruction. It also allows educators to collaborate across schools, ensuring consistency in curriculum and student support. By aligning early dismissals across all schools, Edmonton Catholic Schools ensures equitable access to professional learning to enhance classroom teaching, which benefits all students.

Why does the Division set school schedules?

Edmonton Catholic Schools sets schedules to ensure consistency, equity, and alignment across all schools. A standardized schedule allows for coordinated professional development, system-wide planning, and efficient use of resources. It also ensures that all students receive the required instructional time and that staff have equal opportunities for collaboration and training. Division-wide scheduling supports long-term planning for families, staff, and school operations.

What if this change affects my schedule and I miss more school?

Students may miss class for a variety of reasons. Our staff are experienced in helping students manage their academic responsibilities, and they will continue to provide support to ensure students can keep up with coursework and assignments. 

This schedule works well for me. Why is it changing?

We understand that students and families have built routines around the current schedule, and adjusting may take time. This change, beginning in September 2025, ensures consistency across all Edmonton Catholic Schools and follows Administrative Procedure 130 – School Year Calendar. Aligning schedules across the Division allows for equitable access to instructional time, teacher collaboration, and professional development. We recognize that this may be an adjustment and are committed to supporting students and families through this transition. If you have specific concerns, we encourage you to reach out to our school administration.