Buffalo Trail Public Schools (BTPS) proudly celebrated a major milestone on Monday, May 26, 2025, with the official groundbreaking ceremony for the new Wainwright Elementary School. The event brought together trustees, government representatives, municipal leaders, students, staff, and community members to mark the start of construction on a long-anticipated project that will benefit students for generations to come.

The ceremony began with a warm welcome and opening remarks from Superintendent Michelle Webb, who acknowledged the tremendous efforts that led to this day.

“This groundbreaking is more than the start of construction, it’s the beginning of a new chapter in learning, growth, and opportunity for our students, staff, and the Wainwright community,” said Superintendent Webb. “We are incredibly grateful to our Board of Trustees for their years of advocacy and leadership in making this dream a reality.”

The event featured greetings from Board Chair Kara Jackson, Mayor of the Town of Wainwright Bruce Pugh, Reeve of the M.D. of Wainwright Mike Wildeboer, and messages from MLA Garth Rowswell and the Honourable Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Education.

One of the most memorable moments of the celebration was a heartfelt performance by Grade 4 students from Wainwright Elementary School, who sang a special song in honour of the occasion.

BTPS extends its deepest thanks to all of the partners who helped make this project possible: our Board of Trustees, government and municipal leaders, Alberta Infrastructure, design and construction teams, BTPS staff, school leadership, families, and community members. This milestone reflects the power of collaboration and a shared commitment to building a bright future for students in Wainwright.

As construction gets underway, BTPS looks forward to welcoming the community back to celebrate the opening of the new Wainwright Elementary School when the doors officially open.