Construction Begins on New Wainwright Elementary School

Media Release – April 14, 2025

Ground has officially broken and construction is underway for the new Wainwright Elementary School. The much-anticipated project will provide students with a modern, innovative learning environment designed to support student success and growth.

“We are absolutely thrilled to see the project start,” says Kara Jackson, BTPS Board Chair. “A new elementary school for Wainwright has been on our capital plan for over a decade, and we are very excited for our students, families, staff and community.”

The Alberta government has allocated funding for the design and construction of a new facility that features flexible, modern learning spaces. The new design includes high ceilings, an abundance of natural light and a bright and open learning commons. The school will have multiple breakout spaces, a full music room, and a dedicated sensory room. The kindergarten area will feature breakout spaces, moveable water tables, and a loft, and the schoolyard will feature multiple playgrounds, ball diamonds, a soccer pitch, and an all-weather outdoor surface for year-round use. Additionally, BTPS is exploring the inclusion of an outdoor learning center with a gazebo to enhance outdoor education opportunities.

“We’ve been working alongside teachers, school leaders, community groups, and Alberta Infrastructure to design a school that truly meets the needs of our rural 21st-century learners,” says Jackson. “Their input has been invaluable in shaping a facility that will provide an enriching, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for students.”

Wainwright school staff, BTPS trustees, and central office staff also toured several other new school builds in the region to gather ideas and best practices for the new facility.

The new school is being built on the east side of Wainwright, where the Rotary All-Seasons Park is currently under development.  This location will provide students with additional outdoor amenities right in their own backyard. Amenities include an outdoor skating rink, and currently in development is a BMX bike track and an all-weather surface for basketball and pickleball.

“This project encapsulates the true meaning of collaboration, and we are incredibly grateful for the support of the community,” says Jackson. “From the indoor spaces to the outdoor play and learning areas, this project supports our mission to maximize student learning in a safe and caring environment, supported by a highly effective team.”

“On behalf of the BTPS Board of Trustees, I extend sincere gratitude to our school community for their collaboration, support and patience,” says Jackson. “This school represents more than just a new building—it is an investment in the future of our students and the community of Wainwright.”

Currently, site preparation is underway for footings and piles, and steel structure installation will follow, with major infrastructure work taking place throughout 2025. With an opening student capacity of 495 students, the new school is being built to meet current student enrolment while allowing space for future expansion through modular classrooms if required. It is anticipated that the school will be finished in late 2026, with students moving in after the Christmas break in early 2027.

BTPS will provide updates at btps.ca and on social media as the project evolves.