Joint initiative will explore local opportunities and shared potential.

Peace River School Division (PRSD) Board of Trustees, Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP), and the Grande Prairie Catholic School Division (GPCSD) Trustees are excited to announce a new joint engagement initiative. 

In the near future, the student focused trio will be conducting a value-scoping session in Fairview in an effort to hear stakeholder feedback and visions for education within the area.

In particular, the collaborative initiative will focus on discussing the benefits of streamlining infrastructure and operational costs of stand-alone buildings, and the potential for shared value if a joint Jr/Sr High School was to be constructed on the NWP Fairview Campus.

“NWP is delighted to be working alongside our school districts and local community members to ensure a bright future for the students in Fairview and surrounding areas,” says Justin Kohlman, NWP President and CEO. “These conversations are timely and further proof of our shared commitment to delivering exceptional student experiences and to fostering entrepreneurial connections along the continuum of education.”

The value-scoping exercise will include feedback from community stakeholders along with Fairview schools who are on the current PRSD Capital Plan (E.E Oliver Elementary School, Fairview High School and Fairview and Area Learning Store), and St. Thomas More School, which is the top priority on the current GPCSD Capital Plan. 

“We are looking forward to collaborating and discussing potential opportunities and solutions that will proactively address the region’s infrastructure and educational needs,” says Dr. Jessie Shirley, Superintendent, Grande Prairie and District Catholic Schools. “As northwestern Alberta continues to grow and evolve, it is important to be innovative and open-minded in our approach to delivering optimal learning environments - this includes giving families the continued opportunity to choose a faith-based education.” 

While there is much to be explored in the value scoping exercise and group dialogue, the potential for a community campus model will also be on the agenda. NWP already has strong linkages into the high-school sector through the Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) so the notion of a Jr/Sr High School on NWP’s Fairview Campus will be an interesting topic of discussion. 

“Keeping the best interests of students in mind, we believe this value-scoping is an integral first step in creating outcomes that will deliver benefits well into the future,” says Delainah Walker, PRSD Board Chair. “Our goal is to ensure PRSD and GPCSD students have enduring access to state-of-the-art facilities, equipment and a vibrant learning community.”

As more information becomes available all parties will continue to share updates.