The wish list for new schools and modernization projects for Wolf Creek Public Schools has changed slightly from the board's original list of priorities.

Their number one priority remains focused on Iron Ridge Elementary in Blackfalds, but Superintendent Jayson Lovell says a recent value management study recommends a replacement school.

(Superintendent of Wolf Creek Public Schools, Jayson Lovell - photo courtesy WCPS)

“600 capacity school, K-3, so it allows us to now to focus on that in our capital plan which really clarifies for government what the needs are in Wolf Creek Public Schools.  Originally it was to be modernized, but through that process it became clear that a replacement school is the more fiscally viable option, that will ensure that school meets the needs of our students and our community for many years to come”.

They've also replaced their number 2 priority which was a modernization of the Career and Technology Studies area at Rimbey Junior Senior High School as they recently received word the province has dedicated 3.5 million dollars towards the project, with the division now entering the design process right away.

Lovell says that area of the school needs to be brought up to modern day standards.

“When you look inside their building they do have programs that are for example construction technology, fabrication which is welding, those facilities have not been upgraded for many, many years and quite frankly are in need of significant upgrading so the project will see a focus on completely redoing those areas”.

Some work will also be done to upgrade the Administration area of the school as well.

Moving up on their list as a result of the news for Rimbey is a new 850 student 7-12 school for Blackfalds.

Lovell notes they are also in conversations with the Town of Blackfalds regarding another possible site for a new elementary school.

“Which isn’t going to happen in the next 2-3 years or 5 years even for that matter but with the growth rate in Blackfalds we know we are going to need additional schools so we’re working really closely with the Town and Council and certainly they’re very supportive”.