The Grande Prairie Public School District has gotten some of what it needs to deal with major growth in enrolment.
The province has announced funding for a new K-8 600 student school for Royal Oaks, along with six modular classrooms.
Superintendent Carol Ann McDonald says they are in desperate need of the additions.
“That was number one on our capital plan. With Avondale this year 141 per cent full, we are most definitely in need of that new announcement, so we’re thrilled to hear that news.”
However, McDonald says they’re still holding out for a modernization or replacement for Grande Prairie Composite High, as an 1,800 student school, plus an additional 1,000 spaces will be needed in the next ten years.
In the meantime, the new modulars will all be headed to the city’s newest high school.
“Charles Spencer opened at over 100 per cent capacity, and we have two modulars on the way and an additional six more, so that takes the pressure off Charles Spencer as well.”
New schools were also announced for the Catholic School District and Peace Wapiti School Division.