Students on the Piikani Nation are getting more options for schooling.
The federal government has announced $50 million to build the new facility, which will offer schooling for about 600 students in kindergarten to grade 12.
Currently, the Piikani Nation has one elementary school (Napi’s Playground Elementary School) and one high school (Piikani Nation Secondary School).
“The announcement of our new school build is a result of the cumulative efforts by dedicated people who had a dream, and determination to make it a reality,” says Piikani Nation Chief Troy Knowlton. “This project will stimulate the economy of the Peigan Nation, creating jobs and opportunities for many peoples.”
“This school will also create great learning opportunities for our students in a modern facility with all the amenities for a bright future ahead,” he adds.
The Piikani Nation is 60 kilometres west of Lethbridge and is a part of Treaty 7, with about 3,800 registered members. Officials add planning for the new school started in 2017.
The funding comes from Indigenous Services Canada.
“Education has always been important to the Piikani way of life, in the past and the present, as well as the future,” says Wesley Crow Shoe, a Piikani Nation councillor and trustee with the Peigan Board of Education Society.
“This new school will provide opportunities to educate our children and our community. It will also provide opportunities for the people we serve, with short-term construction jobs and long-term employment positions in the field of education delivery, for those who wish to seek careers as educators and/or support staff.”
The new school is anticipated to open in 2027.
“The design and concept of the new school will be the focal point for both education and the community for years to come. It will also serve as a significant role in the foundation of the Piikani Nation,” adds Crow Shoe. “This is a win for the Piikani Nation, but most of all, a win for the children and future generations. We always say: Our children are our future.”
A virtual tour of the new school can be viewed here.
