Updated: September 28, 2026
Expanding High School Options for South Edmonton Families
Beginning in September 2027, École J.H. Picard Catholic High School will introduce a new English academic high school program for Grade 10 students.
The program will be offered alongside its established French Immersion program and will be phased in over three years:
- 2027–2028: Grade 10
- 2028–2029: Grades 10 and 11
- 2029–2030: Grades 10, 11, and 12
About the English Academic Program
The English academic program will provide students in south Edmonton with an additional academic pathway at the high school level.
Designed for students who are motivated to excel and interested in pursuing post-secondary studies, the program will provide a rigorous academic pathway, including opportunities to pursue Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Students will learn alongside a cohort of like-minded peers in an environment characterized by high expectations, academic excellence, discipline, and respect.
French Immersion programming will continue at J.H. Picard. The English academic program will operate alongside French Immersion as part of a dual-track model, similar to the approach at Archbishop MacDonald Catholic High School. The school remains committed to its bilingual identity, culture, and traditions.
Have Your Say
Edmonton Catholic Schools is seeking feedback from south Edmonton Grade 7–9 students, families, and staff to help inform program planning.
Watch the video below to learn more about the English academic program at J.H. Picard and then complete the online questionnaire.
The questionnaire will gather feedback about:
- Student interests and future goals
- Academic opportunities
- Preferred option courses
- Extracurricular activities and student experiences
- Factors that contribute to a successful high school experience
Your feedback will help guide the development of a high-quality high school program that reflects the interests and needs of students and families.
The questionnaire is now open and will close on Tuesday, October 13.
TAKE THE QUESTIONNAIRE - primary medium button
Next Steps
A What We Heard Report summarizing the feedback will be shared in November 2026. We are committed to keeping students and families informed as program planning continues.
Students and families can learn more about the English academic program at the J.H. Picard Open House on January 28, 2027 or by visiting jhpicard.ecsd.net/english-academic-program.
If you have any questions please email engagement@ecsd.net.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should complete the questionnaire?
The questionnaire is intended for south Edmonton Grade 7 to 9 students, parents/guardians, and ECSD staff who are interested in the English academic program at École J.H. Picard Catholic School.
Why is Edmonton Catholic Schools collecting this feedback?
Your feedback will help inform program planning, including course interests, extracurricular opportunities, and other factors that contribute to a successful high school experience.
How can students access the questionnaire?
Junior high students will complete a student questionnaire during the school day.
Are there entrance requirements for the English academic program?
Yes, entrance requirements will apply.
Students wishing to apply must have a minimum grade of 75% in each of the following Grade 9 subjects:
- Religious Studies
- English Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
Students MUST ALSO have an average of 80% or higher in the 4 core subjects of English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies.
J.H. Picard will not offer -2 level courses at the Grade 10 level for students in the English academic program.
What is the attendance area?
The English academic program at J.H. Picard will serve resident families living in south Edmonton. Please refer to the attendance area map below for exact boundaries.
Does the current facility have space to accommodate a larger high school population?
Yes. The school is currently operating at 91% utilization. As enrolment grows, the Division will ensure all students can be accommodated.
Will the English academic program include advanced offerings such as IB, AP, dual-credit or post-secondary partnerships?
J.H. Picard will continue to offer Advanced Placement (AP) programming. International Baccalaureate (IB) is not being considered as part of the English academic program. As enrolment grows, the Division may explore additional opportunities, such as expanded AP offerings, dual credit, or post‑secondary partnerships, where appropriate.