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
Michelline Lamontagne
Email: teacher@refens.com
Bonjour! I have been lucky enough to be with River East French Exposure Nursery School since September of 1994. I love coming to our class and watching children enjoy learning, making new friends and having amazing experiences!
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Our class is a place where kids learn what it is like to be part of a class. We learn how to be respectful and kind, how to be responsible and creative, how to be helpful and caring all while learning and having fun!
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I have learned over the years that the children will rise to your expectations if you give them the tools and the time they need to succeed. Each student who comes through our program will enter Kindergarten with the knowledge and the self-confidence they need to succeed in their next adventure.
After 30 years with our program, Michelline will be retiring and concluding her time with REFENS at the end of the 2024/2025 school year.
Stay tuned for more details about our "Meet the Teacher" event for the 2025/2026 school year, coming soon.
Teacher Assistant
Shanley Jardine
Email: assistant@refens.com
​​Shanley, our dedicated Teacher Assistant, plays an integral role in the smooth operation of our nursery school. Working closely with our teacher, she helps manage the day-to-day activities, ensuring everything runs efficiently. Shanley actively supports the supervision of class activities, providing guidance and encouragement to students as they engage in play-based learning. She is also instrumental in preparing materials and resources for upcoming projects, fostering a creative and hands-on learning environment.
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With many years of experience in early years, Shanley has developed a passion for working with young learners. Shanley’s dedication to nurturing children’s development and her enthusiasm for teaching create a positive and engaging atmosphere where children can explore, grow, and thrive.