Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
St. Thomas More school is officially a part of Holy Family Catholic Regional Division after its grand opening celebration on Dec. 2!
The school requested to join Holy Family after last school year and the celebration was attended by students, administration, teachers, and a number of dignitaries.
“March of last year, parents (of St. Thomas More) formally requested our school division take over their school from Grande Prairie & District Catholic Schools,” said Supt. Betty Turpin in an interview earlier this fall.
“Both boards supported STM’s request.”
Holy Family received the signed Ministerial Order to transfer St. Thomas More School in Fairview to them. The transfer of the Ward, including the school and other assets, went into effect on Sept. 1.
The school was closed due to asbestos being disturbed in the facility, so at this juncture classes are being held in various schools around Fairview, until decisions can be made for the building.
Archibishop Gerad Pettipas blessed the school at the celebration.
Board Chair Kelly Whalen also addressed the crowd, highlighting the significance of the new space.
“This new space is a symbol of our unwavering commitment to providing the best possible environment for our students, our staff, and our entire community,” says Whalen. “Let us continue to move forward together with joy and hope, knowing that this new temporary portable school is a place where the foundation for tomorrow’s future is being built.”
In addition to the celebration, a generous donation from MODUS Structures was made for the school’s playground in the amount of $50,000.
Turpin also acknowledged the collaborative effort to ensure a smooth transition with the new portable school.
“This marks a significant milestone in our efforts to ensure that every student receives the best educational experience,” she says.
The new temporary portable school will ensure the students have a space to grow, learn, and thrive.