On September 10, the Fort McMurray Public School Division (FMPSD) officially opened the doors to the Wood Buffalo Athletic Academy (WBAA). Attended by local dignitaries, community partners, families, and the inaugural cohort of 150 student-athletes in Grades 4 through 8, the event marked a historic milestone for public education in the region.
The academy is uniquely designed to integrate high-level sports training, including dedicated hockey and multi-sport programs, directly into the daily curriculum. This innovative model allows students to pursue their athletic passions dynamically without sacrificing their academic growth.
The launch of WBAA is the result of years of strategic planning, community consultation, and a steadfast belief in providing diverse educational pathways.
"Today marks the beginning of something our Board has believed in for a long time: a place where our young people can pursue excellence, both in the classroom and on the field, on the ice, or wherever their passion takes them, without having to choose between the two," stated Tim O'Hara, FMPSD Board of Trustees Chair.
O'Hara emphasized that the academy represents a broader commitment to the region. "This is an investment in our students, our public schools, and the future of our community. We are proud to give our young people another pathway to discover what they are capable of, and the opportunity to pursue it."
The academy operates under the guiding values of its mascot, the Nighthawk, represented by the acronym H.A.W.K. Honour, Aspire, Wellness, and Knowledge. These pillars are designed to build character, discipline, and confidence that will serve students long after they graduate.
WBAA Principal Craig Upper spoke directly to the foundational culture being built by the academy's very first students.
"There is something special about creating a school from the ground up. We have the opportunity to build a culture, create traditions, and establish an environment where students can come to school every day and feel that they belong," Upper noted. "I'm excited for the athlete who learns that failure isn't something to fear, but something to learn from. I'm excited for the student who realizes that being a great teammate, a great classmate, and a great person is just as important as being a great athlete."
Executing an ambitious project like WBAA required extraordinary regional and provincial collaboration. FMPSD Superintendent Annalee Nutter extended sincere gratitude to the essential partners who turned the dream into a reality.
Superintendent Nutter highlighted the Regional Recreation Corporation of Wood Buffalo, with a special thanks to Graig Walsh, for providing the world-class facilities the students now call home. She also recognized the tireless efforts of the Wood Buffalo Athletic Academy Society.
To ensure the academy meets the highest standards of athletic and academic integration, FMPSD collaborated with industry experts. "I want to thank Jeff Jones, Executive Director for Academic and Athletic Development at Vimy Ridge Academy and Donnan School in Edmonton," Nutter shared. "We appreciate you sharing your experience and expertise with us on an ongoing basis, supporting the athletic staff to ensure the academies are successful, and connecting us with fabulous human resources for our students' benefit."
Addressing the 150 founding students, Nutter delivered a clear message: "As the very first Nighthawks, you are setting the benchmark. Take immense pride in laying the groundwork for this academy's culture of excellence. Fly high, Nighthawks!"
For more information
231 Hardin Street
Fort McMurray Alberta
Canada T9H 2G2
www.fmpsdschools.ca
