One of the oldest schools in Saskatoon is planning a big birthday bash. King George Community School turns 100 this year and special activies are planned for this Friday and in August.
    
"King George started out as the Prince of Wales School located up at the Mayfair Pool site and was a frame building. Then, the current brick structure was built in the King George community and was renamed King George in recognition of the coronation of King George," said Pat Dubets, one of the organizers of the reunion for alumni in August.
    
In some cases, three generations of students have attended the school. King George Community School even has some famous alumni.
    
"Gordie Howe once attended there as well as another hockey player, Art Jones," said Dubets.
    
She pointed out the school's student population has continuely shifted to reflect the times.
    
"At first it was the first settlers to Saskatoon, primarily of English desent. Then very soon after that, the working-class people who helped build the infrastructure of the city moved there with a high number of Ukrainian people. Then the Chinese have settled there in the past and been a big part of the school. All through these years there was a contingent of Metis people who would attend there. Currently, it has quite a few First Nations and Metis people."

The celebrations on Friday will include an assembly and tours through the school.
    
The big reunion planned for August 17-19 is expected to draw alumni from all across Canada and other countries -- Dubets said they're prepared for over 500 people.
    
As part of this birthday bash, the organizing committee is also trying to raise $16,000. That money would go toward buying a outdoor billboard to put in front of the school and to support student activities like a special trips or guest speakers.

tburdeniuk@rawlco.com

Twitter: @Trelle_B