The new school complex in Silverado, Calgary, will cater to students from Kindergarten to Grade 12. Additionally, a secondary school for Grades 7 to 12 is being designed in Airdrie, and a gymnasium modernization project is underway in Lethbridge. These developments are part of a broader strategy to increase accessibility to Francophone education across Southern Alberta. The education region’s efforts to expand its infrastructure are driven by the rapid demographic growth in areas like northeast Calgary. “When we plan for new schools we usually work in collaboration with Alberta Education and Alberta Infrastructure… we’re at the table as a stakeholder, but the lead, the project management, and the construction is being taken care of by Alberta Infrastructure,” De Loof explains. For instance, the new K–6 school in Harvest Hills and the K–6 Catholic school in Hamptons, Northwest Calgary, are being planned to address the growing demand in these regions. FrancoSud’s innovative approach to school design, such as the dual K–6 and 7–12 school model, allows for cost savings and better utilization of resources while meeting the needs of Francophone families. FrancoSud’s success is also built on strong partnerships with various stakeholders, including local businesses, community organizations, and government bodies. For example, the education region has secured grants for playgrounds, solar panels, and preschool programs, enhancing the educational experience for its students. Collaborations with the Canadian Welding Foundation, the Boilermakers, and the Iron Workers Foundation have also enabled FrancoSud to offer specialized programs, such as welding camps and drama workshops. These partnerships extend beyond infrastructure to include programming and extracurricular activities. 243 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 09 CONSEIL SCOLAIRE FRANCOSUD
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx