Sixty-five per cent is more than a passing grade for the new La Loche Elementary School currently under construction in the northern community. The project, which is a collaborative effort of the Government of Saskatchewan, the Northern Lights School Division and dedicated community advocates, is now 65 per cent complete. According to both government and school division officials, this milestone marks an important moment in ensuring the students and staff of La Loche have access to a state-of-the-art learning and working environment for years to come.
“The steady advancement of this new school underscores our unwavering commitment to fostering educational excellence across Saskatchewan,” education minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “This milestone supports our vision of empowering generations of learners in La Loche and beyond.”
The new 5,548 square metre elementary school, located next to Dene High School, will serve approximately 475 students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 6. Its design, crafted with input from the local community, celebrates Indigenous cultural elements and embraces the natural beauty of the region. “This project demonstrates Saskatchewan’s dedication to providing quality learning environments that foster growth and excellence,” SaskBuilds and Procurement minister Terry Jenson said. “With construction now at 65 per cent, we look forward to the completion of this facility and the positive impact it will have on La Loche and the surrounding communities.”
This was echoed by Richard Petit, NLSD board chair. “We are pleased with the current progress of the elementary school in La Loche,” Petit said. “We are grateful for the ongoing support from the Ministry of Education, SaskBuilds and our community stakeholders.” The Government of Saskatchewan is investing $45.7 million in the new school project, which is on track to conclude in the spring of 2025. Since 2008, the Government of Saskatchewan has committed approximately $2.6 billion toward school infrastructure projects, including 69 new schools and 32 major renovation projects with an additional seven projects approved through the Minor Capital Renewal Program.
The new school will replace the 49-yearold Ducharme Elementary School. The new facility will have 26 classrooms, a kitchen for student meal programs as well as a feature staircase for school gatherings.