Update on Proposed High School Shuttle Service for French Immersion Students - June 2, 2025
Earlier this spring, we invited families to apply for a shuttle service to J.H. Picard Catholic School for French Immersion students in Grades 10–12. This proposed expansion aimed to make J.H. Picard more accessible for families by offering additional pick-up and drop-off locations at Holy Cross and St. John XXIII Catholic Schools, as well as two northside community transit stops.
Unfortunately, we did not receive enough interest to proceed with the service for the 2025–2026 school year. A minimum of 12 students per route is required to operate a shuttle, and only three applications were submitted.
We sincerely thank the families who applied or shared feedback.
We remain committed to supporting French Immersion and will offer the shuttle service opportunity again for the 2026–2027 and 2027-2028 school years.
Details from the 2025–2026 Shuttle Proposal
Shuttle Locations and Schedule
- Holy Cross Catholic Elementary/Junior High School: 7:50 AM
- St. John XXIII Catholic Elementary/Junior High School: 7:35 AM
- 97 St. & 157 Ave. (Eaux Claires Transit Centre): 7:30 AM
- 66 St. & 140 Ave. (near Londonderry Mall): 7:47 AM
The shuttles will return to Holy Cross, St. John XXIII, and the northside locations at approximately 4:00 PM. Ride times are estimated to range from 30 to 50 minutes each way. A monthly bus pass, costing $57, will be required.
Why Expand Shuttle Service?
This expansion reflects feedback from last year’s online questionnaire, where families shared that reliable transportation was a key factor in continuing French Immersion. By expanding shuttle service, we aim to make J.H. Picard Catholic School more accessible for families exploring high school options and making it easier for students to continue with French Immersion.
How to Apply
Students must also be registered at J.H. Picard for the 2025-2026 school year to be eligible. If you have already pre-enrolled at another high school and would like to switch, please contact your current school.
Please note that we require at least 12 students per bus to operate the service. Applications close Friday, May 30, and families will be notified in early June regarding the status of the service.
Visit ecsd.net/apply-for-transportation to complete the application for the 2025-2026 school year.