Steinbach Early Years Catchments (K-4)

Catchment Changes FAQ

What is a school catchment area?
A school catchment area is a defined geographic boundary that determines which schools students are eligible to attend based on their residential address. The Hanover School Division enforces strict catchment areas to ensure balanced enrollment and maintain the viability of all its schools.

Why are the Steinbach Early Years catchment areas being changed?
The catchment areas are being updated to create a designated catchment area for the new Parkhill School, opening in September 2025. With the addition of this new catchment, adjustments are necessary to ensure balanced enrollment across all Steinbach Early Years Schools.

When do the new catchment areas take effect?
The new Steinbach Early Years catchment areas will take effect for the 2025-26 school year.

Will my child be required to change schools because of these new boundaries?
Due to adjustments in all Steinbach Early Years catchment boundaries, some students will need to change schools, even if they are not assigned to the new Parkhill School.

How will I know if my child’s designated school has changed?
You should have received an email from the Hanover School Division on Friday, October 11, confirming your child’s designated school for the 2025 school year. If you did not receive an email, please contact us at steinbachcatchments@hsd.ca. Catchment maps are also available on the HSD website.

What is the process if my child needs to switch schools due to the new boundaries?
For children already enrolled in HSD schools, parents/caregivers will not need to request a transfer or submit a new registration. Parents/Caregivers can expect further communication in early spring 2025 as we prepare for this transition.

How will middle school catchments be aligned to the early years schools?
Parkhill School and Southwood School will feed into Stonybrook Middle School, while Elmdale School and Woodlawn School will feed into Clearspring Middle School.

Will my children currently in middle school (Grades 5-8) be affected by this change to Steinbach early years catchments?
These boundary changes will not affect current middle school students.

Can I apply for Schools of Choice?
Applications are subject to class size limits (a maximum of 20 students for grades K-4). Due to projected enrollment, approval of in-division applications is expected to be very limited, and requests will be denied if a grade is full. Please note that HSD does not provide bus transportation for students attending schools outside their designated catchment area. Students currently enrolled in Steinbach elementary schools through Schools of Choice will continue to have their placements honoured.

Will transition support be provided?
We recognize that this transition may be challenging for some students and families. Rest assured, school counsellors and staff will be available to offer support as needed. To help students adjust, school visits are being planned for spring 2025, allowing them to become familiar with their new schools.

What if my child has special needs?
We recognize that children with special needs may require additional support services to facilitate a change of schools. If you have concerns or questions, please contact the Student Services Department.

Will there be transportation provided to the new Parkhill School?
Yes, for students who are eligible for bus transportation. Eligibility will depend on the distance from your family’s home to the designated school. Based on this proximity, your child may now be in a walk zone. Information about bus routes and numbers will be provided closer to the school’s opening date.

Will the designated walk zones change?
Walk zones for Elmdale School, Southwood School, and Woodlawn School will not change. The walk zone for Parkhill School has not yet been established.

Who can I contact if I have questions about the new boundaries?
Parents can contact the Hanover School Division via email at steinbachcatchments@hsd.ca.