The process to build a consolidated school in east Wheatland County is taking another step forward.
Parents in Wheatland County were invited to attend a meeting to learn about the proposed school.
“We wanted to confirm the support we think we have is still there, because this is an emotional issue with a lot of different opinions. Parents are telling us, so far, we need to get moving on this,” said Golden Hills superintendent Bevan Daverne.
In March last year, Golden Hills School Division moved to approve construction of a K-12 consolidated school to serve students in the area. The site was proposed to be a six kilometre stretch near the intersection of Highways 561 and 840.
The school would replace schools in Gleichen, Hussar, Rockyford, and Standard.
“This started over a year ago. We were looking at solutions to one of the biggest problems in the area. We explored a number of possibilities. A working group of parents from four communities considered what solutions could work. Eventually they settled on looking at specific sites for a consolidated school,” said Daverne.
The idea for the school was inspired by declining rural attendance and a demand from parents and students for diverse program options.
“It's a unique solution. The four communities can pool their populations together and have a shared, rural community school. At the high school level, there is a lot more focus on careers, apprenticeship programs, and options for students,” said Daverne. “Our small high schools feel the pressure. Parents are looking for rich programming that provides a lot of options for their kids.”
Should all go well, the goal is to have a new school ready by September 2015. However, there are several hurdles to overcome.
“We need to go to the county for rezoning and funding for the purchase of the land. We’re also hoping for a reasonably quick announcement from the province they would support a capital investment in the area,” said Daverne.
Residents can leave their feedback on the proposed project by calling 403-934-5121.
