An alternative school could be launched next fall in Crossfield if Mayor Nathan Anderson gets his way.
Anderson and former NHLer-turned-developer Neal Coulter gave Rocky View Schools’ trustees a presentation about a school specializing in hockey and performing arts, at its meeting, Feb. 3.
Trustees agreed to investigate the feasibility of the alternative school, which would operate out of the Pete Knight Memorial Arena, Crossfield & District Community Centre and W.G. Murdoch High School.
Anderson said residents are on board with the project.
“The Town is highly in favour of this opportunity to turn our community high school into a high school with a strong regional focus for sports excellence,” he said. “Crossfield operates a successful community hockey program and there is great support in the community.”
Anderson said the program could alleviate classroom space shortages in Airdrie and would allow kids from Rocky View and Mountain View counties to attend.
“The additional students will help alleviate funding shortages at W.G. Murdoch,” said Anderson.
“We need to create a culture of academic success in Crossfield.”
Parents and private industry will be looked at to fund the facility, according to Anderson.
“We need the support of the parents,” said Anderson. “We need them to buy into our vision. That’s where the bulk of money is going to come from in my mind, the private sector or from tuition.”
In response to the long-term vision of the school, Anderson said he would support most models as long as it proved successful.
“I think it’s critical that we as a community work in conjunction with the school board,” he said. “I would rather see constructive movement of this going forward.”
A performing arts portion of the proposed school would be housed in the Community Centre, which has a 600-seat capacity, dance floor, stage, dressing rooms and $28,000 available for sound upgrades from the community.
“W.G. Murdoch teacher Shelley Cunningham’s dance class and performing arts expertise are highly respected through the community,” said Anderson.
“She has unlocked hidden talents and gifts in children.”
Trustees will discuss a report on the issue at its May 1 board meeting.
