Summer Program 2026!

Is your child starting a new chapter at Waterloo Catholic District School Board’s newest school?

Each grade level will have an opportunity to get prepared for those first few weeks before the new Notre Dame Secondary School opens. 

Riverhawks… GET READY!

How does Get Ready Riverhawks make a difference?

Each Grade will have a specific program to meet their transition needs.

Generally Learn about:

• What the school year will look like for intermediate and secondary school students separately?
• Strategies to manage a semester system
• Following a timetable, finding classes, and meeting new peers who will join you – ahead of time
• Navigating to and from the school
• Belonging to a new school community before the first day of school

We are certain that by attending this summer program just before school starts, students will have increased confidence, positive attitudes toward school, and bond with new friends.

Get Ready Riverhawks is a summer program and not mandatory.

Only students enrolled at Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School may participate in the Get Ready Riverhawks summer program.

Gr. 10 Summer Orientation Crew (SOC)

Monday, August 24 & Tuesday, August 25, 2026

8:30am-3:00pm (lunch 11:30am-12:00pm)

(some Grade 10 students may qualify for volunteer opportunities on August 26 & 27)

Gr. 9 HeadStart

Monday, August 24 & Tuesday, August 25, 2026

8:30am-3:00pm (lunch 11:30am-12:00pm)

Gr. 7 & 8 Transition Days

Wednesday, August 26 & Thursday, August 27, 2026

8:30am-3:00pm (lunch 11:30am-12:00pm)

Registration opens Tuesday, March 24,  2026

* All program information is subject to change.

**Program changes may occur due to unforeseen circumstances or programming needs.

***Transportation to and from school is not provided during this program.

Every Waterloo Catholic high school has a team of students and staff to help before school begins.

Be sure to:

• Read the Entering Secondary School Transition Guide
• Attend a Notre Dame Information and Pathway Presentation evenings for Parents and Students in November or December
• Ask questions about courses, different levels and different pathways when you meet the school guidance teachers
• Participate in Transition Meetings arranged by your Elementary School.
• Connect with Principal Modolo who has made personalized visits to each Catholic Elementary School impacted by this new school