Students learn how municipal government works, what services the City provides, and how local decisions impact daily life. Topics include the role of City Council, municipal services, taxes, equity and accessibility, and budget decision-making. 

View Module 1: Local Government & its Functions

This module introduces students to what bylaws are, why communities need them, and how they are created and enforced. Students participate in a mock Council debate to propose, discuss, and vote on a bylaw scenario. You can even ask to have a bylaw officer attend for a short Q&A with participants!

View Module 2: Bylaws

Students explore democracy, leadership, and how residents can influence local decisions. The module highlights practical “roads to action,” including letters, delegations, petitions, surveys, and running for office in the future.

View Module 3: Our Role in Local Government 

The City of Grande Prairie is proud to offer a convenient and educational way for classes to travel to and from City Hall for the Discover Grande Prairie program. Using City Transit ensures a safe and reliable trip while also introducing students to one of the community’s most important public services.

Optional Add-On: Discover GP Ambassador Program

Enhance your trip with the Ambassador Program, a hands-on learning session offered on the bus:

• Learn how to read bus schedules and maps.
• Explore rider safety and transit etiquette.
• Discover environmental benefits of public transportation.
• Ask questions directly to a Transit Ambassador.

This optional add-on makes the ride an engaging learning experience while reinforcing civic awareness.

“I Spy in GP” Handout

Every participating class will receive an I Spy in GP activity sheet for the bus ride.

• How it works: Students look out the windows and write down things they see that are operated, built, or maintained by the municipality (e.g., playgrounds, sidewalks, streetlights, fire stations, transit stops, City facilities).
• Learning Outcome: Students connect what they see every day to the services municipal government provides, building awareness of how City operations impact their lives. Host Councillors will then ask students to share some of the things they wrote down in “I Spy in GP”. 

Handouts will be provided on the bus for all students.

How It Works

1. Pick-Up at School
   • A City Transit bus will arrive at your school to pick up the class.
   • Teachers and chaperones will accompany students on board.
2. Drop-Off at City Hall
   • The bus will bring your class directly to City Hall for your scheduled Discover GP program.
   • Students will disembark and proceed inside with their teacher(s) and chaperones.
3. Return to School
   • Once your program has concluded, the bus will return to pick up your group.
   • Students will be dropped back off at school or originating pick up location.

How to Book Transit

When completing the Discover Grande Prairie bookings form:

• Check “Yes” if you are planning to use Transit for your class visit.
• List any accommodations needed 
• Check “Yes” if you would like to include the Ambassador Program add-on (optional).

Booking Notes:

• The bus is reserved for your group for up to 3 hours from initial pick-up.
• Earliest school pick-up: 8:45 a.m.
• Latest downtown departure (return trip): 2:45 p.m.
• Transit service must be booked at least 3 weeks in advance.

Important Information for Teachers

• One adult (teacher or chaperone) must accompany the group. Please ensure adequate supervision for the full trip.
• Teachers should ensure all students understand basic transit etiquette before boarding: stay seated, use quiet voices and keep the aisles clear.
• All liquids must have a sealed lid.

Other Considerations: 

Weather Considerations

• Students may need to walk a short distance from the bus stop area to the City Hall entrance, so they should dress for the weather.

Cancellations or Delays: 

• If your program needs to be rescheduled, contact the Executive Assistant to Mayor & Council at least 72 hours in advance to adjust transit bookings
• For same-day emergencies, dial 3-1-1. 

Optional Add-On: Discover GP Ambassador Program

Enhance your trip with the Ambassador Program, a hands-on learning session offered on the bus:

• Learn how to read bus schedules and maps.
• Explore rider safety and transit etiquette.
• Discover environmental benefits of public transportation.
• Ask questions directly to a Transit Ambassador.

This can be added on at the same time as booking.