Updated September 16, 2025
As part of the new school construction project at Eric Langton Elementary, a purpose-built child care facility will be opening inside the school. This new centre will expand supports expanded access to high-quality, inclusive, and affordable care for families in our community.
Following a transparent and equitable Request for Proposals (RFP) process, the school district has selected Maple Ridge Childcare Society as the operator for this new space. Maple Ridge Childcare Society is a sister organization of Curious Minds Child Care, which means the same trusted provider currently operating at Eric Langton will continue to support families under their new name.
We recognize that transitions can raise questions, and remain committed to providing continuity and clarity for families throughout this process.
The following list of frequently asked questions is intended to provide clarity and address the most common concerns. This page will be updated as new information becomes available, and key updates will also be shared directly with Curious Minds Child Care families and the Eric Langton Elementary school community.
The new purpose-built child care facility is part of the broader capital project to replace Eric Langton Elementary. As per Ministry of Education and Child Care guidelines, newly built child care spaces are prioritized for non-profit organizations. An open RFP ensures transparency, inclusiveness, and alignment with provincial policy.
To comply with provincial expectations for equitable access and to prioritize non-profit providers in newly funded spaces, the district had to undertake a public procurement process. This approach allows multiple organizations to submit proposals and ensures that child care services align with updated values, regulations, and educational frameworks.
The anticipated timelines are as follows:
- RFP Release: Spring 2025
- Proposal Review and Selection: Spring 2025
- Decision Communicated to Child Care and School Community: Fall 2025
- New Provider Start Date: June 2026
These timelines allow for a full year of transition planning and ensure minimal disruption to families.
Proposals were evaluated based on:
- Alignment with BC’s Early Learning Framework
- Commitment to inclusion and Indigenous ways of knowing and being
- Pedagogical documentation practices (e.g., supporting children’s natural interests and wonderings)
- Organizational capacity and experience
- Cost and accessibility of services
The new facility will offer more licensed child care spaces than the current portable, and families currently using child care at Eric Langton will be given first priority. The district is committed to working with the selected provider to support a smooth transition and maintain as much continuity as possible for children and families.
Yes, the fees will need to be adjusted to reflect the larger space and enhanced amenities offered by the new purpose-built facility within the school. These improvements support improved programming and care, but we remain committed to affordability. The selected provider is expected to participate in the Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative (CCFRI), and many families may also qualify for the Affordable Child Care Benefit (ACCB), which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Learn more about these programs:
CCFRI: Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative
ACCB: Affordable Child Care Benefit
Yes. We value community voice and welcome input or questions from families throughout this process. While we are obligated to follow a transparent and equitable public procurement process—as required by both provincial policy and funding agreements—we remain committed to considering the needs and perspectives of the Eric Langton community.
If you would like to share feedback or ask a question, please contact:
Tammy Maidment
Manager of Child Care
childcaremanager@sd42.ca
All updates will be posted on this page. We will also share relevant information directly with Curious Minds Child Care families and the Eric Langton Elementary school community to help keep everyone informed throughout the process.
To learn more about the Eric Langton Replacement Project, visit https://www.sd42.ca/eric-langton-replacement-project/
