Friday, Jan. 16, is the first day Markham families can sign up for Kindergarten and French Immersion at York Region District School Board schools. Here are six things to know before you register.
1. Kindergarten is for children turning four or five this year
Children who turn four or five in 2026 can be registered for Kindergarten starting Jan. 16. Teams of certified teachers and early childhood educators use exploration, play and inquiry to help children build the skills they need for Grade 1.
2. There are four ways to register
Families can register online, in person, by mail or by phone. The board's Kindergarten page at yrdsb.ca/kindergarten has the details, or you can contact your local school.
3. Line up before and after care early
Every YRDSB school offers before and after care programs. The board is urging families to check their school's website or its before and after care directory, and to contact providers early to secure a spot.
4. French Immersion has a firm window
French Immersion registration runs from Jan. 16 to Feb. 9, 2026. The optional program is designed for children whose first language is not French.
5. Know how the French Immersion day is split
In Grades 1, 2 and 3, all subjects are taught in French. From Grade 4 on, class time is shared equally between French and English.
6. Missed the information session? There are other options
The board scheduled French Immersion information sessions at French Immersion schools for 7 p.m. on Jan. 15, the day heavy snow closed schools across the region. Families who could not attend can listen to the board's Tune In YRDSB French Immersion podcast or watch its short video about the program. A list of program locations is on the board's website.
