The opening of a new high school in Blackfalds is being described as a game changer for the community.
Wolf Creek Public Schools (WCPS) and the community officially welcomed Iron Ridge Secondary Campus (IRSC) with a grand opening celebration Sept. 12 at the school, marking a new era for education in the town.
"The analogy I've been using is like waiting to open your presents at Christmas," said Ed Coles IRSC principal. "And finally, we have students in the building and we're getting to enjoy all these things that we spent years planning. Having this event is just the culmination of all that planning and hard work."
The event kicked off with an Honour Song performed by the Yellowbird Drummers, setting a powerful and reflective tone for the day's celebrations. The event also featured remarks from Mayor Jamie Hoover of Blackfalds, who emphasized the importance of this new facility for the town's growth, and MLA Jennifer Johnson, representing the Lacombe-Ponoka constituency, who spoke about the positive impact of this school on local families and the wider community. The Honourable Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors, delivered a message on behalf of the Alberta Government, underscoring the province's dedication to supporting education in growing communities like Blackfalds.
"This school is more than just bricks and mortar; it represents our commitment to creating an environment where every student can discover their potential, pursue their passions, and grow into the leaders of tomorrow," said Tim De Ruyck, WCPS Superintendent.
The grand opening was the culmination of a project that began back in November 2019, following years of advocacy by the Wolf Creek Board of Trustees and partners such as the Town of Blackfalds. With funding approved by the Alberta Government, the community was actively involved in the design process, providing feedback on the electives and courses to be offered. The construction, led by Bird Construction, started in the spring of 2022 and was completed this past spring, with staff working tirelessly to prepare the school for students.
Board Chair Luci Henry said with Iron Ridge Elementary Campus, Iron Ridge Intermediate Campus, Iron Ridge Junior Campus and now Iron Ridge Secondary Campus, Blackfalds children can receive K-12 education without leaving their community.
"Think about what it means for a child to start their educational journey on the carpet of a kindergarten classroom, surrounded by new friends and teachers. And then think about that same child, years later, standing in a chemistry lab, a math class, or a trades workshop dreaming big dreams and reaching for big goals.This is what continuity in education looks like," said Henry. "This is about more than just what happens inside these walls. This is about building community. Because when our young people succeed, our community succeeds."
A highlight of the event was a special presentation on the significance of the school's logo by Assistant Principal Kayley Bowie, alongside Josephine Small, the Indigenous Education and Reconciliation Learning Supports Coach for Wolf Creek Public Schools. They spoke about the rich indigenous and cultural heritage of the bison, which the school logo represents, connecting students to the community's history.
After the presentations, the official ribbon-cutting ceremony took place, symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter for education in Blackfalds. Guests were then invited to join student-led tours of the new campus, where they could see firsthand the modern classrooms, specialized learning spaces, and the beautiful mural created by local artists that captures the natural and cultural history of Blackfalds.
"The students are the ones who make this place whole, and seeing them fill these halls has made all the planning, hard work, and anticipation worth it," said Coles.
