We offer a dynamic program in a school setting.
REFENS HISTORY
River East French Exposure Nursery School has been providing quality education to three and four-year-old children for over 40 years. We are the only nursery school program in the North/East Kildonan area that offers an initiation to the French language, and our program has attracted students from various parts of the city.
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Our program is designed to prepare children for Kindergarten in both French and English. We believe in the balance of learning and play, and focus not only on teaching numbers, letters, colors, and shapes, but also on developing the necessary skills to thrive in a classroom environment. We prioritize following school schedules and procedures, such as being quiet in the halls and showing respect for other classes. Safety is a top priority, so we conduct regular fire drills and enforce playground rules.​ By the end of June, our students have learned so much that we are ready for Kindergarten, though it’s bittersweet to say goodbye.
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Our students have been fortunate to participate in a variety of exciting outings and activities over the years - from visiting local spots such as the library, and The Children’s Museum, to taking part in cultural events like The Festival du Voyageur and the Winnipeg International Children's Festival. We are thrilled to have been invited as guests to the KidsFest Opening Ceremonies, where our students have been invited to perform on stage with beloved children's entertainers such as Fred Penner and Splash'N Boots.
Nursery school friendships are special and long-lasting. At REFENS, we celebrate these bonds with our annual Family Fun Night, where we welcome back our alumni and their families. It's a heartwarming experience to see former students and parents reconnect and reminisce about their time at REFENS.
REFENS is proud to have a wonderful reputation in the RETSD! Our program has been highly praised by kindergarten teachers in both the Immersion and English schools. We are thrilled to see graduates ready and eager to take on the challenges of the education system and enthusiastic about cheering them along through out their school age journey and beyond.
MISSION STATEMENT + VISION STATEMENT
REFENS provides a safe and nurturing environment that exposes children to the French language, fosters a lifelong love of learning, and prepares students for school by offering a positive and engaging introduction to education.
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REFENS continually strives to create a community where children, families, and educators collaborate to foster an inclusive environment that celebrates cultural diversity.
LICENSING
The River East French Exposure Nursery School Co-operative Incorporated (REFENS) is licensed by the Manitoba Government and must abide by the standards stipulated in the Community Child Care Standards Act. REFENS is a private, parent-run program with two paid employees.
REFENS Values
Respect
Exploration
Fun
Empowerment
Nurturing
Support
Our Teacher
Kate
Email: teacher@refens.com
Bonjour! My name is Kate, and I am honoured to be your teacher beginning in the 2025/2026 school year. With an extensive background in Early Childhood Education and formal training focused on Kindergarten-aged learners, I bring both experience and enthusiasm to the classroom. My educational journey took place entirely through a French Immersion program here in Winnipeg, from Nursery through Grade 12, culminating in a Diplôme d’immersion Français. I understand firsthand how empowering learning an additional language can be, and I am excited to introduce your child to French in a meaningful and engaging way, laying the foundation for a lifelong appreciation of language learning.
As an Educator, I view myself as a guide—there to expose, empower, and encourage your child to grow into their full potential as a learner. I believe children are active participants in their learning, and this philosophy is reflected in every aspect of our classroom, from its setup to our approach to the curriculum. Our learning will be emergent-based, meaning it will develop and grow organically from your child’s interests, questions, and discoveries. This responsive approach ensures that each child feels seen, heard, supported, and inspired as they explore the world around them.
Here's to a very exciting school year!
A Note from the BOD:
After 30 wonderful years with our program, Michelline Lamontagne will be retiring at the end of the 2024–2025 school year. We’re deeply grateful for her dedication and the lasting impact she’s made. We’re thrilled to welcome Kate, who brings fresh energy and ideas while honoring the strong foundation Michelline has built.
Teacher Assistant
Shanley
Email: assistant@refens.com
​​With many years of experience in early years, I’ve developed a passion for working with young learners. I love helping them learn, grow, and discover the world around them, and I’m dedicated to creating a classroom environment where they feel safe, supported, and excited to explore.
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In my role, I work closely with our classroom teacher to help keep things running smoothly throughout the day. Whether it’s setting up for activities, preparing materials, or jumping into play and learning alongside the children, I’m always happy to lend a hand. I value being part of a team that creates a thoughtful, engaging space where children can learn and thrive.
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I'm excited for the year ahead and feel so lucky to be part of your child's learning journey!