Through Budget 2024, Alberta's government has approved full construction funding for 19 priority school projects, including a new school to replace the existing Brooks Junior High School, which has served families in Brooks for over seven decades. The school replacement project is one of 43 priority school capital projects funded in Budget 2024, which provides $2.1 billion to build and modernize schools across Alberta.
"Brooks is growing, and that includes our student population. Brooks Junior High is the school at the top of the priority list for the Grasslands School Division, so this is welcome news not only for the school board, but also for staff, students and their families. I look forward to seeing the next steps as this project moves toward construction, as well as celebrating when the doors officially open."
Danielle Smith, Premier
The new school will be located at the same site and will replace the current junior high school, which was originally built in 1953. Students will still have the opportunity to learn at the existing school, while the construction happens where the current track and football fields are located. When fully built, it will provide space for an additional 157 students, totalling 820 students, allowing space for enrolment growth.
The next step is for the project to be tendered for contract. Additional details such as total project costs and timelines will be available once a contractor has been selected. While specific timelines are yet to be determined, it is anticipated that the new school could start welcoming students in the 2027/28 school year.
"Our investment in projects like the Brooks replacement junior high is a testament to the Alberta government's commitment to build new and modernized spaces for students across the province. I am confident that through the 43 projects supported in Budget 2024, students will continue to receive a world-class education that prepares them for a lifetime of success."
Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Education
"The Board of Trustees for Grasslands School Division is very appreciative of the support for our students from the Government of Alberta with the approval of a replacement school for Brooks Junior High School. This new facility, with its ease of accessibility and modern design, will allow us to continue to provide a world-class education for our students."
Pat Connor, board chair, Grasslands Public Schools
Budget 2024 is a responsible plan to strengthen health care and education, build safe and supportive communities, manage the province's resources wisely and promote job creation to continue to build Alberta's competitive advantage.
Quick facts
- The replacement of Brooks Junior High School was approved for design funding in Budget 2023 and advanced to full construction funding in Budget 2024.
- Full construction funding approval includes all activities to take the project to completion, including construction and post-occupancy review.
- The current junior high school has a total student capacity of 663. It was originally constructed in 1953 with additions in 1959, 1972 and 1985.
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