Foothills Academy

Staff Spotlight!

For the past 12 years, Nathalja Hogervorst has been helping students discover their strengths, build confidence, and develop the skills they need to thrive both in the classroom and beyond.

From leading engaging social studies discussions to teaching practical life skills like cooking and personal finance, Nathalja creates meaningful learning experiences that help students better understand themselves and the world around them. Her passion for building strong relationships and empowering students to become confident, independent learners shines through in everything she does.

We're also excited to celebrate Nathalja as she begins a new chapter as Foothills Academy Society's Career and Guidance Teacher for the 2026/2027 school year, where she'll continue supporting students as they explore their strengths and prepare for the future.

Thank you, Nathalja, for your dedication, compassion, and the lasting impact you make every day!

Click here to learn more about Nathalja and her impact at Foothills Academy Society: https://ow.ly/o2sn50ZoWcw

Did you know you can support Foothills Academy just by shopping for your favourite brands online?

With FlipGive, a portion of what you spend online comes back to Foothills Academy at no extra cost to you. Shop brands like Nike, Amazon, Walmart, and Indigo and turn your everyday purchases into meaningful support for children and youth with Learning Disabilities and/or ADHD.

Make your shopping count: https://ow.ly/ShQ850Y5Ico

We’re pleased to introduce Rviita Energy Tea and welcome back Accident Rehabilitation Centre, skoah Kensington, and Network Recycling Inc. as Hole Sponsors for the 16th Annual Gordon Hoffman Charity Golf Classic.

Their support plays an important role in making this event a success while helping to advance programs and individualized supports for all learners at Foothills Academy Society.

Click here to explore the event and meet our generous sponsors: https://ow.ly/l12F50YuSpY

Don’t miss your chance to register for Survive & Thrive in Jr. High!

Middle school and/or junior high can feel overwhelming, especially for students with Learning Disabilities (like Dyslexia) and/or ADHD. New teachers, heavier workloads, and bigger social circles can be a lot to navigate, but the right support makes all the difference.

Led by a Foothills Academy provisional psychologist, Survive & Thrive in Jr. High explores topics such as:
- Study skills, time management & organization
- Social skills, friendships & peer relationships
- Being safe: Dealing with bullying/cyberbullying and internet safety
- Dealing with adolescence (self-esteem, body changes & hygiene)

Program runs August 17 - August 21 with both morning and afternoon sessions available ( 9AM-12PM or 1PM-4PM)

Bursaries are available on a sliding scale based on family income and individual needs, helping make our psychology programs accessible and inclusive.

Click here to learn more and start the intake process today: https://ow.ly/Unkt50YVgG0

We’re pleased to welcome back Shane Homes, The Fence Store, Spartan Controls, and Concrete Inspirations Epoxy Flooring & Concrete as Hole Sponsors for the 16th Annual Gordon Hoffman Charity Golf Classic.

Their continued support helps strengthen programs for the children, youth, and families at Foothills Academy Society, and we’re grateful to have them alongside us!

Click here to explore the event and meet our generous sponsors: https://ow.ly/LoVv50Yp85n

What are Yokai?

Yokai are spirits and mythical beings, and much like the Kami, Yokai were a part of everyday life in Edo Japan. They are strongly connected to nature, often taking the form of animals and creatures or appearing as the spiritual essence of rocks, trees, or other objects. There are thousands of different Yokai across Japan, often having different forms or characteristics depending on the region they are found in.

Near the end of June our Grade 8 Social Studies students were challenged to create their own original Yokai as well as the lore and background surrounding them. Everyone was so creative!