Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
Georges P. Vanier School is holding a Community Consultation Session to help decide what renovations should be done in the school to ensure the facility’s modernizations will positively impact generations to come.
The school will be hosting its Renovations Community Consultation Session at Club Alouette in Falher on Sept. 11 starting at 7 pm.
“This modernization is about more than renovating a building,” says High Prairie School Division (HPSD) Superintendent and Chief Executive Officer Murray Marran. “It’s about creating a safe, welcoming, and future-ready environment where students can learn and thrive. We’re excited to hear from families and the community, so the design reflects their priorities as well as our educational needs.”
The school has been serving families in the Smoky River Region for decades, and facility staff is hoping to get the input of community members to help shape renovation plans.
Sections of the building are over 50 years old, and they now need to be upgraded to ensure the systems and spaces can meet today’s standards. Renovations will also help to address health and safety requirements, update learning spaces, and ensure the school is efficient, accessible, and welcoming for all.
The modernization is also set to ensure the facility is equipped to handle dual-track programming offered by the school.
“Our board is proud to see Georges P. Vanier School moving forward in this way,” says Board Chair Joy McGregor Listening to the voices of students, parents, and the broader community is key to ensuring this project truly reflects the needs of Falher and surrounding areas.”
Funding has been committed by the province to help start the planning and designing process of the renovations. School modernization will begin once design work and approvals are complete, with build timeline being announced by the province at a later date.
“The future of Georges P. Vanier School will be stronger if it reflects the hopes of the people it serves,” notes Trustee Lynn Skrepnek. “We encourage everyone to take part in this process and help create a school the whole region can be proud of.”
Vanier is welcoming anyone with a connection to the school to attend the consultation session, including students, parents, staff, and community members. They note that this is a once-in-a-generation project and that attending will allow people to have a chance to be heard, share ideas, and to make sure the modernization reflects the needs of students and families.