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Lethbridge School District receives $14.3 million for new south east elementary school

Mar 23, 2018 | 1:02 PM

LETHBRIDGE – Groundbreaking on south Lethbridge’s first new school in 55 years is expected to occur in August, after the province announced more than $14 million dollars Friday (mar.23) for its construction.
 
Christine Lee, associate superintendent of business affairs, says it will be located in the southbrook area, east of Highway 43 and south of Highway 4.
 
The new school will be a mirror of Coalbank Elementary on the west side.
 
“What’s really unique about this school, is that it will have photovoltaic solar panels on the school. And what that mean, is that it will be able to harness the sun’s energy to help our electricity bills. And also, students will get a great opportunity to learn about environmental stewardship, as well as alternative energy sources.”
 
Lee says with the student population in Lethbridge growing by more than three per cent every year, they’ve had to add portables to Ecole Agnes Davidson and Lakeview Elementary for several years.
 
“This is a 600 student school. It’s built with a core of 400, with modular facilities that will make it 600 at full build out and it’s a K-5 school.”
 
A new elementary school was the top priority in the school district’s capital plan. The district received $2 million  from the province last March to fund a new design.
 
The City of Lethbridge has also agreed to help pay for an expanded gymnasium, as part of a joint-use agreement.