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“Classroom at the Crosses” 2026

“Classroom at the Crosses” 2026

Learning, Remembrance and Community Connection

From October 26 to November 11, 2026, Valour Canada once again collaborated with Field of Crosses for the “Classroom at the Crosses” program, an annual educational program educating youth about Canada’s military history, peacekeeping, and service.

This year’s program welcomed 2,400 youth, including students, Girl Guides, Scouts, Cadets, as well as visitors from the general public and community groups, for meaningful learning experiences at Calgary’s Field of Crosses.

Through guided tours, engaging historical lessons, and hands-on artifact experiences, participants explored Canada’s military heritage and learned about the individuals and stories behind our nation’s history. The Field of Crosses provided a meaningful setting for students to reflect on the importance of Remembrance, service, and the sacrifices made by Canadians in uniform.

We are grateful for the enthusiasm and curiosity shown by participating students and groups, as well as the continued support of educators, volunteers, and community partners who helped make this year’s program such a success.

Thank You to Everyone Who Made This Program Possible!

  • The Field of Crosses team for their continued collaboration and for providing a meaningful setting for this educational initiative
  • Teachers, educators, and group leaders for bringing their students and youth groups to participate and for supporting their learning about Canada’s military heritage.
  • Our dedicated volunteers, including veterans, retired educators, military history enthusiasts, and university students, for sharing their time, knowledge, and enthusiasm with participants.
  • Valour Canada’s Board members for their continued involvement and support.
  • 41 Canadian Brigade Group for their essential support in setting up and taking down the artifact-handling modular tent.
  • Calgary Curling Club for allowing us to use one of their rooms as our temporary classroom.

What Educators and Group Leaders Are Saying

We are pleased to share some of the feedback received from teachers, educators, and group leaders following their participation in Classroom at the Crosses 2026. Their comments reflect the value of bringing Canadian military history beyond the classroom and creating opportunities for students to learn, engage, and reflect.

I wanted to give a huge shout-out to Aaron Curtis and the Valour Canada team for their incredible work and dedication in making it possible for CCSD students to participate in Classroom at the Crosses. We are so grateful for their support in creating such meaningful learning experiences for our students!

Jennifer P (Calgary Catholic School District)

Once again, this trip was awesome! The kids and parents loved it and are already planning to return to the crosses. Thank you for the opportunity and for making this such a memorable experience for the students!

Maria G. H. (Calgary Catholic School District)

I just wanted to thank you so much again for the incredible learning experience the Grade 2’s at Queen Elizabeth were so fortunate to take part in yesterday. What a wonderful program “Classroom at the Crosses” is and even more remarkable that it is a volunteer-run program and free for schools. The students learned so much in that 1.5 hours and our experience will be a “stand-out” memory of the school year for sure. Thank you so much again for squeezing us in and making it work and for being so accommodating.

Lori G. (Queen Elizabeth High School)

Thank you for such a wonderful and memorable morning! This was my first experience with the Field of Crosses/Classroom at the Crosses program, and I was truly impressed by the meaningful learning opportunities you provided for the students and myself. Your enthusiasm, personal stories, and willingness to share your knowledge brought history to life in a way that no textbook ever could. The discussion about Vimy Ridge, the exploration of artifacts, and the walk among the crosses was a powerful and meaningful reminder that behind every story or artifact is a person. The passion and dedication of everyone involved was eminent. Each session offered something unique, and together they created an experience that was engaging, thoughtful, and truly memorable.  

Laura G. (Calgary Catholic School District)

Valour Canada extends its heartfelt gratitude to our 2026 funders

Their generous support helps Valour Canada deliver engaging educational opportunities that connect young Canadians with the stories, experiences, and contributions that have shaped our country’s history.

A Look Back at Classroom at the Crosses 2026

Here are some photos capturing the learning experiences, meaningful conversations, and community connections from this year’s program.