Buffalo Lake Metis Settlement is the only Métis community in Alberta without an on-site school. The majority of Kindergarten to Grade 8 students are bused 23 kilometres outside of the settlement to attend Caslan School.
But that will soon change.
A new school has been approved by the provincial government’s Schools Now program.
“We are grateful for the support we received from Minister Jean and Minister Nicolaides in moving this project forward, and the leadership provided by Buffalo Lake Metis Settlement Council,” said Board Chair Karen Packard. “This is a project that is very meaningful for the community and the school division, and we are thrilled that it has successfully advanced from the pre-planning stage to officially become part of the Schools Now program.”
Buffalo Lake Metis Settlement has already identified a site for the new school that will co-locate it with other community services, and provide opportunities for community involvement, extracurricular activities and expanded programming outside of school hours.
“The new school will allow students to pursue their education in their community and expand opportunities for collaboration between the school and community to enhance learning for students,” said Packard
According to the school board, NLPS currently has three school infrastructure projects included in the Schools Now program. A replacement school for Vera M. Welsh Elementary School is currently under construction in Lac La Biche, and a Cold Lake South Solution to address needs at Art Smith Aviation Academy, North Star Elementary School and Cold Lake Junior High is in the planning stage.
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