The provincial government has announced funding for the design of a new Morinville Public School, addressing long-standing infrastructure concerns and enrolment pressures in the growing community.
The investment, revealed on March 20, marks a significant step toward replacing the aging school, originally built in 1958. The current facility, which serves students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 4, has expanded over the decades but now relies on modular classrooms for nearly 45 percent of its space. Officials say this has led to a disjointed layout and operational inefficiencies.
“The replacement of Morinville Public School will ensure our students continue to learn in a high-quality environment that supports their academic and personal growth,” said Tasha Oatway-McLay, Board Chair of Sturgeon Public Schools.
Among the major structural issues is the school’s sunken gymnasium, which has been plagued by water intrusion and mold concerns. Accessibility remains another challenge, with second-floor washrooms that are difficult for students with mobility issues to reach. The new school will be designed to provide a more functional and inclusive space, supporting modern learning needs.
Located on the northwest side of the existing site, the new facility will also accommodate a grade reconfiguration, shifting from K–4 to K–6. This change will allow nearby Four Winds Public School to focus on Grades 7–9, alleviating enrolment pressures across both campuses.
Dale Nally, MLA for Morinville-St. Albert, emphasized the urgency of the project. “There’s no time to wait—we need to build schools now. The replacement of Morinville Public is a much-needed project for our community.”
The new school will have capacity for 740 students. Construction will take place while the existing building remains operational, ensuring continuity for families.
