Last updated: January 8, 2025
Edmonton Catholic Schools is offering a shuttle service for French Immersion students attending J.H. Picard Catholic School for the 2026–2027 school year. Families are invited to register their interest now. If enough students sign up, the shuttle will begin service in September 2026.
This is the second year of a three-year commitment to assess the feasibility of the shuttle. Last year, registrations did not meet the minimum requirement to operate from Holy Cross or St. John XXIII, but the Division remains committed to providing this option to interested families.
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. Students will need to pay monthly transportation fees, with an estimated cost of $50.
Why Expand Shuttle Service?
This expansion reflects feedback from the 2023-2024 French Immersion Division-wide Engagement, 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
- Apply online starting Monday, February 2
- Application deadline: Friday, March 13
- Families will be notified if the shuttle will run shortly after the application deadline
- We require at least 12 students per bus to operate the service
- Visit ecsd.net/apply-for-transportation to complete the application for the 2026-2027 school year.
Open House
Join us at J.H. Picard’s Open House on February 19 at 6:00 PM to learn more about the school and its programming. This is a great opportunity to see how J.H. Picard supports French Immersion students academically, socially, and culturally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can use the shuttle service?
The shuttle service is available for French Immersion students in Grades 10-12 attending J.H. Picard Catholic School. We are hoping the shuttle service will encourage more French Immersion students from Holy Cross, St. Cecilia, and St. John XXIII to consider continuing with high school French Immersion at J.H. Picard.
How does the shuttle work?
The shuttle operates as a dedicated high school route with set pick-up and drop-off points.
- Students meet the shuttle at one of the designated stops.
- The shuttle travels directly to J.H. Picard in the morning and returns to the same locations after school. (Please note: the shuttles from Eaux Claires and 66 St. make one additional stop before arriving at the school.)
What are the costs involved?
Students will need to pay monthly transportation fees, which cost approximately $50 per month.
How long will the rides take?
Ride times are expected to range between 30 and 50 minutes each way, depending on the pick-up location.
What happens if fewer than 12 students register for a bus?
If fewer than 12 students register for a bus, that route will not operate. Families will be informed in late March 2026 if their shuttle service will proceed.
Where can I apply for the shuttle service?
Starting Monday, February 2, applications can be submitted online at ecsd.net/apply-for-transportation using the transportation application form for 2026-2027 school year.
When is the deadline to apply?
The application deadline is Friday, March 13, 2026.
Who do I contact for more information?
If you have additional questions, please contact J.H. Picard Catholic School directly.