Ducharme Elementary Community School has reached the end of its lifespan. (Submitted photo/Darcy Ahenakew)

By Derek Cornet

modern facility

Premier hosts announcement of new elementary school in La Loche

Jan 10, 2022 | 4:56 PM

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe was in La Loche this afternoon to celebrate the construction of a new school.

Moe was joined during a special presentation at La Loche’s current Ducharme Elementary Community School, which will be replaced by a new $24 million facility to be opened by September 2024. The new school will be built adjacent to Dene High School and will accommodate approximately 475 students between pre-Kindergarten and Grade 6.

Construction is projected to begin in summer 2022 once the design and planning phase is completed.

“This is a special moment for you. This is a special moment for myself and Minister Duncan and I know it’s been a special moment for all of those in the community of La Loche,” Moe told students and staff. “This school we are in has served this community well for decades now. We know this building is not just a school or will the new school be just a school, it’s going to be a gathering place for us to come together.”

The provincial government first announced the replacement of Ducharme Elementary Community School in June 2020. At the time, Northern Lights School Division (NLSD) superintendent of education Jason Young said the facility was experiencing a number of inefficiencies such as a poor heating and energy system. He noted water and sewer lines are operating at or twice the life expectancy, there was a major ground disturbance resulting in the building to shift, and portables added to the structure are in poor repair.

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“This building has served its purpose for decades now,” Moe said. “It’s done it’s duty and it certainly provided the necessary service to you, your older brothers and sisters, maybe your mom and dad.”

The announcement was broadcasted live on the school’s Facebook page. (Screenshot)

Moe was joined at Monday’s announcement by Education Minister Dustin Duncan, La Loche Mayor Georgina Jolibois, NLSD chairperson Morris Cook and other dignitaries.

Cook stated the building of a new elementary school in La Loche is a testament to the growth throughout the community and the need for schools that meet the changing educational needs of young people.

“During this time of significant disruption to the lives of our students, this announcement will give hope and stability to our school families and will help us build our communities educational future,” Cook said. “This is an occasion definitely worth celebrating.”

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @saskjourno