Portage la Prairie School Division (PLPSD) is looking at further expanding its Strong Beginnings program next year.

PLSPD Asst. Supt. Mike Mauws explains it's an assessment program that occurs each year allowing students to meet one-on-one with teachers. Kids complete various activities to allow teachers to better understand each individual.

"It really lets teachers help individual children and plan better for their instruction," Mauws says.

The program was first launched two years ago as a pilot project at Fort la Reine and La Verendrye School, exclusively in Grades 1-3. In 2015, PLPSD expanded to offer Strong Beginnings in all Grades 1-3 schools. This year, it was tested at two schools for Grades 4-6. Mauws says the reception was all positive.

"It was very well received by administrators, teachers and parents," Mauws says. "We'll certainly be looking at expanding the Strong Beginnings program, hopefully across the division for Grades 1-6 students next fall."