Situated at the intersection of First Avenue and O'Connor Avenue in Ottawa’s Glebe neighbourhood, First Avenue Public School occupies a heritage-designated building dating back to 1898. Nestled alongside Patterson Creek, the campus serves approximately 550 students spanning junior kindergarten through grade six.
Academic Programs and Admissions
As a public elementary school within the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB), the school follows the curriculum set by the Ontario Ministry of Education and operates under the leadership of Principal Emily Wagner. Admissions are handled according to OCDSB district policies, typically based on student residential address within the school's attendance boundary. As a publicly funded school, there is no tuition for residents of Ontario.
The academic program features a regular English program alongside Middle French Immersion beginning in Grade 4. Additionally, the school hosts specialized classes and support for students diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), alongside programs that cater to diverse learning needs.
Extracurricular and Community Offerings
The school features an active School Council partnership and provides on-site third-party child care through programs offered by Andrew Fleck Daycare and the Fifth Avenue Child Care Centre. Students participate in extracurricular activities, community projects, and field trips that extend learning beyond the classroom.
Fostering steady academic growth in elementary students involves a combination of consistent study habits, open communication between home and school, and a supportive learning environment. Establishing a predictable routine for homework and reading helps young learners develop strong organizational skills and time management from an early age. Encouraging curiosity and discussing everyday concepts outside of the classroom also reinforces what is taught during the school day, making abstract ideas more relatable and easier to grasp. Teachers and parents often find that celebrating small milestones and maintaining a positive attitude toward problem-solving builds the confidence necessary for students to tackle more challenging material as they progress through the grades. Providing access to a quiet space for schoolwork, along with adequate rest and balanced nutrition, further ensures that children remain focused and ready to engage with their daily lessons.
