Local officials excited to know Parkside School modernization is a go

Posted on September 30, 2024 by Ryan Dahlman

By Anna Smith
Southern Alberta Newspapers
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

As part of an announcement made by Premier Danielle Smith on Sept. 17, Parkside Jr. High School in Redcliff has received the green light for a modernization project.

Smith announced funding to advance new school capital projects through a construction accelerator program, with one of these projects being the Parkside modernization and addition.

“This is exciting news for our Redcliff families and the community of Parkside,” said Redcliff trustee Pam Cursons. “The newly modernized facility will be an engaging space for students to learn and a state of the art recreational space for all of Redcliff to enjoy.”

This project first started as a proposition in March 2023, though at the time was only a design and review, without construction funding that would allow for the project to move forward.

The school will see many improvements including the conversion of the former gymnasium into three new learning spaces, including an upgraded exterior and interior.

“The biggest change will be the addition of a new larger gymnasium which has been the biggest request from students and community,” said PRPS. The school is currently seeking donations to help fund this expansion.

“Our students, staff and parents have been really excited about this project, however until now it was just something we hoped for and didn’t know when it would happen,” says Parkside principal Jonn Baird. “With this funding announcement we can all start to get really excited about these changes becoming a reality. We can’t wait to host other schools and invite the community into our new space. It is a building all of Redcliff will be proud to use and call its own.”