We are thrilled to announce that Onoway Elementary School will be starting its very own Polar Bear Club this winter! The Polar Bear Club is a fun and invigorating opportunity for students to embrace the joys of outdoor play during colder weather while fostering resilience, physical activity, and a love for the great outdoors.
What is the Polar Bear Club?
The Polar Bear Club is a supervised program that encourages students to enjoy outdoor recesses even when temperatures dip below normal. At Onoway Elementary, we believe that outdoor play is vital for children’s health, well-being, and social development—even during Alberta’s colder months!
Guidelines for Participation
Participation in the Polar Bear Club is completely optional, and students will need parental permission to join. Here are the key details:
- Eligibility: Students must dress appropriately for cold weather to participate. This includes winter boots, snow pants, warm coats, mittens/gloves, scarves, and toques.
- Temperature Threshold: Outdoor recess for the Polar Bear Club will proceed as long as the temperature (including wind chill) does not drop below -35°C. (AP750 states an indoor recess is in effect at any temperature below -25°C including the wind chill.)
- Supervision and Safety: Staff members will supervise all outdoor activities to ensure students stay safe and comfortable. Students can opt-out and head indoors if they feel too cold.
Why Join the Polar Bear Club?
Participating in the Polar Bear Club has numerous benefits, including:
- Increased physical activity during the winter months.
- Building resilience and appreciation for outdoor environments.
- Developing social skills through team play and cooperative activities.
How to Enroll
If you would like your child to participate in the Polar Bear Club, please complete and return the attached permission form to your child’s homeroom teacher.
We are excited to see our students embrace this unique opportunity to enjoy winter to its fullest. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the school office at 780-967-5209.
