Replacement schools funded for Lac La Biche and Waskatenau

Two local school divisions are having some of their biggest capital needs met.

The Alberta government announced spending for the 2023 year in its budget on Tuesday, which included funding to build replacement schools for Holy Family Catholic in Waskatenau and Vera M. Welsh Elementary in Lac La Biche.

This strikes off the top priority in capital plans moving forward for both Northern Lights and Lakeland Catholic.

“We are thrilled to see our Waskatenau school included in this year’s provincial school projects,” said LCSD Board Chair Mary Anne Penner in a press release. “A new building is needed to support the growing enrollment and programming at Holy Family Catholic School, and this news is truly worth celebrating.”

The school dates back to the 1930s, with multiple expansions over the decades.

Earlier this year, division reps met with Education Minister Adriana LaGrange to highlight the need for a replacement.

“Our school population is continually growing, and we are looking forward to expanding the learning opportunities offered at Holy Family,” school Principal Farrah Ollikka said in the release. “Our entire school community is overjoyed.”

In the case for Vera M. Welsh, the need has existed for 20 years and running to replace the aging infrastructure.

So far, design funding has been approved by the province.

NLPS was previously approved for funding for a consultant to work with all three local school jurisdictions to develop a solution that would address the overall educational infrastructure needs in the community.

A replacement school would not only address health and safety by addressing being a low-lying area, but also move away from a busy CN railroad.

“We are overjoyed to see that this project is finally moving forward,” said Board Chair Karen Packard in a press release.

“This is a result of the continued efforts of parents, staff, former and current trustees, and the community to emphasize the importance of this project and the impact it will have on students. We are grateful to the many people who have written letters, raised the issue with numerous provincial politicians, and helped the Board advocate for our students and our community.”