Students in Waterhen Lake First Nation are back learning in their home community with the opening of a new temporary school.
Chief Blaine Fiddler joined Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty, council members, Elders, staff, students and community partners to celebrate the opening of the facility, which will serve students from kindergarten to Grade 12 while a permanent replacement school is planned.
Indigenous Services Canada invested $15 million in the project, which includes 17 ready-to-move units for classrooms, a Head Start program and daycare space. The temporary school was built after the community’s previous school was destroyed by fire in May 2024.
“Today, we are not simply opening the doors to a temporary school, we are opening the doors to opportunity, hope and a brighter future for our children,” said Chief Blaine Fiddler. “This facility may be temporary, but our commitment to education is permanent.”
Chief Blaine Fiddler said the new school represents more than a temporary learning space.
“Losing a school is devastating for any community,” said Minister Mandy Gull-Masty. “This opening means students can continue learning close to home, surrounded by their families, culture and community.”