Harry Balfour Replacement School

Principal Jen Clevette tours the Harry Balfour Replacement School - September 2023

School design

• Start Architecture was named the successful design bidder in March 2021.
  
  
• The replacement school will reflect elements of Whispering Ridge Community School that opened in 2018 to accommodate approximately half of Harry Balfour School’s rapidly growing enrolment. 
  
  

• Interior design of the replacement school, including room layout and breakout spaces, received tremendous input from the School Design Committee.
  
  

• Using Whispering Ridge Community School as their starting point, the School Design Committee provided input on classroom design elements such as millwork and the design and location of teaching stations and whiteboards.
  
  

• Plans for the site layout, parking and bus loop design, and school orientation on the property are being finalized.
  
  

• The design will incorporate LEED® Silver requirements, in collaboration with Alberta Infrastructure.

Playground: In her announcement on November 1, 2019, Minister LaGrange also said parents no longer have to fundraise for playground equipment, as it is included in funding for new schools.


Location: The County of Grande Prairie has provided land at the Five Mile Hall site.


Advantage of the new location: By eliminating the additional time required to transport rural students through the busy central core of the city, the Board will achieve another important goal – educating County of Grande Prairie students where they live while reducing early morning pick-up and late drop-off times.

Playground

Thanks to Participarent, corporate sponsorships, individual donations, and the Christmas concert admission and silent auction, Phase 1 of the new playground has been fully funded. Fundraising for Phase 2 will begin in early 2024 and will go toward smaller playground structures and an outdoor classroom.

Outdoor Classrooms

 
Outdoor classrooms follow the principle that children learn everywhere and all the time. Learning by experience helps children grow in motor development, social-emotional development, language development, and creative expression.

How You Can Help

Your donations make a significant difference in bringing this project to life. By supporting our school, you will contribute to the well-being, education, and happiness of our students and the broader community.

1. Monetary Donation: Any amount, big or small, makes a big difference in our fundraising efforts.
2. In-Kind Donation: If you have access to materials, equipment, or services that can help with the playground construction, we would greatly appreciate your support.
3. Volunteer Time: If you or members of your organization are willing to volunteer time and expertise for the construction or landscaping of the playground, we would be thrilled to have your assistance.

If you would like to become a part of this exciting endeavor, please reach out to Harry Balfour School Participarent or Principal Jen Clevette. We would be delighted to discuss the various sponsorship opportunities and how your corporation can be recognized for its invaluable support.

Want to learn more? The Harry Balfour School Council and Participarent meetings are held on the third Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at Harry Balfour School, and all are welcome to attend!