New School Construction Program Accelerates Development in Mallaig

New School Construction Program Accelerates Development in Mallaig

Alberta’s $8.6 Billion Investment to Boost Rural Education

The Government of Alberta’s School Construction Accelerator Program is set to expedite the development of a new school in Mallaig, bringing modern educational facilities to the rural community sooner than expected.

The existing École Mallaig School, built in 1956 with additions made in subsequent years, will be replaced with a state-of-the-art building designed to meet the diverse needs of the community. The new school will feature an indoor walking path, daycare spaces, a public library, and a dedicated area for faith-based celebrations, reflecting its role as both an educational institution and a community hub.

On September 18, Premier Danielle Smith and Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides announced the $8.6 billion investment aimed at creating over 200,000 new student spaces across the province within the next seven years. This initiative will see the construction of 30 new schools annually for the next three years, along with the progression of 10 existing projects.

“This is the fastest and largest build our province can manage given the capacity of our construction workforce, and the time that it takes to permit and prepare and service available school sites,” Premier Smith stated during the announcement. She emphasized the importance of providing every student with a quality education in a suitable learning environment, recognizing the ambitious nature of the School Construction Accelerator Program.

Minister Nicolaides added, “In budget ’25 and in the next two subsequent budgets we will announce 30 new schools each year.” This commitment underscores the government’s dedication to enhancing educational infrastructure and ensuring that students across Alberta, including those in rural areas like Mallaig, have access to modern and well-equipped schools.

The replacement of École Mallaig School not only addresses educational needs but also strengthens the francophone culture, language, and identity within the constituency, reinforcing the community’s heritage and values.