Thinking about moving to Cold Lake with kids? One of the first questions I get from families is: āWhat are the schools like?ā
As a Cold Lake realtor and someone whoās been raising a family here for over 13 years. I know how important it is to feel confident about education when you're settling into a new home. Whether you're posted here, relocating, or just exploring a move, I want to help you feel more prepared.
In this guide, Iāll walk you through the school options we have here in Cold Lake public, Catholic, French, and military-connected and share a bit of neighbourhood insight.. Because when you know whatās here, itās easier to picture how life might feel for your family.
šļø Why Cold Lake Just Makes Sense for Families
If you're looking for a place that balances community, comfort, and connection ā Cold Lake might be exactly what youāre after. Itās the kind of place where schools are nearby, commutes are short, and your kids can actually play outside after school. For many families (mine included), it just feels right.
š« School Options in Cold Lake
š¹ Public Schools
ā Cold Lake Elementary School (Kā3)
Located in Cold Lake North, this school offers a caring, supportive start for younger students. Families love its close-knit community and walkable access to nearby parks and homes. My kids both went to Cold Lake Elementary and absolutely love this school.
š Thereās also a local out-of-school preschool right next door ā a great option for families with little ones just getting started!
ā North Star Elementary School (Kā6)
Located in Cold Lake South, North Star Elementary offers another public elementary option, known for its inclusive learning environment, supportive staff, and active parent community.
ā Nelson Heights Elementary School (Grades 4ā6)
Also in Cold Lake North, this middle school supports academic growth with strong programs, school spirit, and dedicated staff ā just minutes from Cold Lake Elementary and St. Dominic.
ā Cold Lake Middle School (Grades 7ā9)
Serving students in both North and South areas, Cold Lake Middle School prepares students for high school with a mix of academics, sports, and extracurricular activities in a community-oriented setting.
ā Cold Lake High School (Grades 10ā12)
Located in Cold Lake South, right inside the Energy Centre, this public high school offers academic and trades programs, athletics, and access to community facilities for a well-rounded student experience.
ā Cold Lake Outreach School (Grades 10ā12)
Outreach School offers flexible learning for students who may benefit from an alternative to traditional classroom settings. Whether for personal, academic, or scheduling reasons, this supportive environment gives students another path to graduation and success.
āļø Catholic Schools
ā St. Dominic Elementary School (Pre-Kā6)
In Cold Lake North, this Catholic elementary school offers strong academics in a values-based environment. Itās known for its tight-knit community and welcoming school culture.
ā Holy Cross Elementary School (Pre-Kā6)
Located in Brady Heights in Cold Lake South, Holy Cross provides a faith-based education in a friendly and supportive setting. Many families love the schoolās welcoming atmosphere and strong parent involvement.
ā Assumption Junior/Senior High School (Grades 7ā12)
Also in Cold Lake South, Assumption offers Catholic junior and senior high education in a personal, inclusive environment. Families appreciate the schoolās focus on academics, values, and school spirit.
š«French School
ā Ćcole Voyageur (Kā12)
Located centrally ā just minutes from the Cold Lake Energy Centre ā Ćcole Voyageur offers full French-language education in a vibrant, inclusive space. Itās a great option for French-speaking families or those wanting French immersion in a supportive, community-based school.
š”School Located on Base
ā Art Smith Aviation Academy (KindergartenāGrade 9)
Located right on 4 Wing Cold Lake, Art Smith Aviation Academy proudly offers French Immersion through Northern Lights Public Schools. With programming from Kindergarten to Grade 9, it provides a supportive environment for both English and French Immersion learners.
This school was designed with military families in mind ā offering smaller class sizes, strong routines, and a focus on STEM and aviation-related learning. Whether your posting is short or long-term, Art Smith helps students feel connected and supported throughout the school year.
š” Where to Live Based on School Location
If school zones are top of mind, hereās a quick breakdown to help you visualize your move:
Cold Lake North: Close to Cold Lake Elementary, Nelson Heights, St. Dominic, and nearby preschool options
Cold Lake South: Close to North Star Elementary, Cold Lake High School, Assumption Jr/Sr High, Holy Cross Elementary School (Brady Heights), and Cold Lake Outreach School
Midpoint/Central Cold Lake: Near Ćcole Voyageur and the Energy Centre
4 Wing/Base Housing: Convenient for Art Smith Aviation Academy and Cold Lake Middle School
š¬ Final Thoughts
Every family is different and so is every move. Whether you're exploring French Immersion, need flexibility with school zones, or just want to know what life might actually feel like day-to-day, I hope this guide gave you a helpful place to start.
And if you're thinking about moving to Cold Lake or house hunting nearby, Iād love to help you find more than just a property Iāll help you find what feels like home.
š§ Bonus: Helpful Links for Parents New to Cold Lake
Whether youāre brand new to town or just trying to make sense of whatās available, here are a few quick links that can help make your transition smoother:
š School Division Websites:
š School Registration Info
š Transportation & Busing
šØāš©āš§ Helpful Local Groups
Monira Kamis Arabi
780-812-1311
monirakamisarabi@hotmail.com
