Join us on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at Lumen Christi Catholic Education Centre!
Help your child feel confident and ready for the first day of school!
First Riders is a free event for Edmonton Catholic Schools families that provides a hands-on introduction to student transportation. It is designed to help students and families feel prepared, safe, and comfortable before the school year begins. The event is held in the parking lot of our Division office, Lumen Christi Catholic Education Centre.
Who Should Attend
First Riders is for ECSD students who are new to the yellow school bus, taking Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) for the first time, or needing a refresher.
Pre-Kindergarten (100 Voices) students
Kindergarten and Grade 1 students
Grade 7 students moving to ETS
Any student riding the bus for the first time or needing extra practice
What to Expect at First Riders
During the session, you and your child will learn and practise how to safely get on and off the bus, wait at the bus stop, and follow important safety routines while riding. Families will move through outdoor safety stations, ask questions, and receive helpful tips from Transportation Services staff.
The visit concludes with a short school bus ride, giving students a chance to experience what their daily routine will be like before the school year begins.
Attend one session. Plan to stay about 45 minutes.
This event is made possible through the collaboration of Edmonton Catholic Schools and our carriers: Cunningham, Edmonton Transit, First Student, Golden Arrow, Southland Transportation, and Stock Transportation.
Media representatives may be invited to take photos and videos at the event.
Registration: Please check back in June 2026.
First Riders: Frequently Asked Questions
What is First Riders?
First Riders is a free event for students and families who are new to riding the school bus or would like a refresher. It helps students learn what to expect and feel more confident on their first day.
Who Should Attend?
First Riders is for students starting school this fall, especially those in kindergarten or early grades, and anyone new to riding the yellow school bus or ETS.
What will my child learn?
Students will learn how to:
Get on and off the bus safely
Wait safely at the bus stop
Follow expectations while riding
Respond in an emergency
Families will also have the opportunity to ask questions about transportation.
Do parents or guardians attend with their child?
Yes. Parents or guardians are expected to stay with their child during the session.
How long should we plan to be there?
Families can expect to stay for about 45 minutes.
Do we need to register?
Yes. Registration is required to attend. Details and registration are available on the First Riders webpage.
Is there a cost to attend?
No. First Riders is a free event offered by Edmonton Catholic Schools.
Will there be support for first-time ETS riders?
Yes. Information about public transit is available for students who may be using ETS.
What if we cannot attend?
If you are unable to attend, families can still learn more about transportation and bus safety by visiting the Edmonton Catholic Schools transportation page.
Applying for Yellow Bus Service
To access yellow bus service in Edmonton Catholic Schools, students who meet the eligibility criteria must apply. Click here to learn more about eligibility and the application process.
If you have any further questions or require additional information, please do not hesitate to call 780-441-6078 or email transportationservices@ecsd.net.
