Construction begins on long-awaited central Saskatoon school

Five years after the provincial government announced funding for a city-centre school in Saskatoon, shovels finally hit the ground to mark the unofficial start of construction.

“It’s thrilling. It’s absolutely exciting that after five long years, we’re finally at the point where we’re going to break ground on this wonderful school that the children of Riversdale, Pleasant Hill and King George have deserved for many years,” said Shane Skjerven, director of education for Saskatoon Public Schools.

“I cannot wait to see the project come to fruition and have kids enter the doors of the school here in a couple of years.”

Skjerven said the project faced delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic and extended discussions with potential partners.

The new school, which is expected to open in fall 2027, will be located on the former site of Princess Alexandra School, located on Avenue H South near 22nd Street. The $29-million project includes space for up to 400 students and 74 new childcare spaces.

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“It’s been a long time coming and this is going to be such a monumental project for this community,” said Saskatchewan’s Minister of Education Everett Hindley. “It’s more than just a school, as we heard today, it’s going to be really the hub and the heart of this community.”

Skjerven said the design of the school reflects input from the neighbourhood, including feedback from students.

“I think what will set it apart is you’ll see several cultural aspects to the school. I think there will be an identity that is reflective of Riversdale, King George and Pleasant Hill and something that I think every citizen in this community can be very proud of,” he said.

A memorandum of understanding has been signed the school division and the Saskatoon Tribal Council. The two sides plan to collaborate on programming that supports students and the surrounding community.

A new school enrolling up to 400 students from Riversdale, Pleasant Hill and King George will be built on the former Princess Alexandra School site on Avenue H South. (Google)

One standout feature of the school will be a gymnasium larger than those in other city elementary schools. A name for the new school is expected to be announced later this fall.

The decision to build the new school followed rising maintenance costs for King George, Pleasant Hill and Princess Alexandra schools.

The division says redevelopment options for the King George building will be considered after consultations with the community and stakeholders.