FOCUS PROGRAM APPLICATION PROCESS 2025-2026
Elementary Focus Program Application Process:
HWDSB elementary schools offer a wide range of learning opportunities to prepare students for success in high school and beyond.
In fall 2025, the Elementary Focus Programs listed below will be accepting applications for the 2026-27 school year. Students currently learning in these programs do not need to reapply.
For more information about the application process. Here are some important dates for
2026-27 applications:
- October 27, 2025: Application form opens
- November 28, 2025: Application form closes
- December 15, 2025: Families notified of application outcome
- January 12, 2026: Deadline for families to accept or decline application outcome
Families interested in learning more about the Elementary Focus Programs are invited to watch a pre-recorded informational video: https://youtu.be/dBRKZ7QCd70
Hockey Academy
Mandarin Language Transition Program/中英文过渡项目
SAGE – Scholastics, Arts and Global Education
SAGE Quest
R.A. Riddell Sport Academy
Grade of Entry
- Basketball Academy: Grade 5- Program begins in Grade 6
- High Performance Program: Grade 6- Program begins Grade 7
- Hockey Program: Grade 6- Program begins Grade 7
- Mandarin Language: JK or SK- Program begins SK or Grade 1
- SAGE: JK or SK- Program begins SK or Grade 1
- SAGEQuest: Grade 5- Program begins in Grade 6
Applicants will be placed into programs by:
- Review of all applications
- Random selection process creating a list for each school
- Siblings placed if space is available prior to random selection
- Current HWDSB students are offered places first, followed by out-of-board students
- Schools will manage any waitlists by schools
One system application point where families will be asked to:
- Provide basic personal information and their child’s OEN
- Select the program
- Indicate if there is a sibling already in the program
- Answer two open response questions
- Why are you interested in having your child in the program?
- How can the school best support your child?
- Site-specific questions
- Acknowledge that families provide transportation
- Provide information related to the program
Questions? Please email [email protected]
Updated on Monday, October 20, 2025.