Fort Livingstone School in Pelly may soon find itself on the chopping block.
Current enrolment in the Kindergarten to Grade 8 facility has fallen under 40 students triggering a review process.
“The school review process is not undertaken lightly by our Board members,” said Lois Smandych, board chair. “Last year, in consultation with the School Community Council, a recommendation was accepted that would see high school Grades 9 to 12 discontinued at the school and those students now attend Norquay School. There are many factors to consider and we want to make sure we do a thorough job of taking everything into account. This a very important process that sees honest discussions in the next step of reviewing information and ensuring we have all of the facts.”
Although the enrolment threshold is important there are many other factors to be considered including location, transportation considerations, grade configuration, staffing, operational costs, facility standards, program offerings and extra-curricular activities.
The Board of Education discussed these matters at its October 14 meeting before passing a motion to undertake the school review process.
At the same meeting, the Board of Education passed a second motion to establish a Review Committee.
Smandych promised an open and accountable process.
“As a public entity, we take our role very seriously; the local community will be consulted as part of the decision making process,” she said. “Through the Review Committee, we will have key discussions towards ensuring the best educational opportunities for students, today and in the future, is a reality.”
