Tumbler Ridge students will be getting back to learning in temporary school facilities that began arriving in the community on Monday, February 16th.
Students have been absent from classrooms since the tragic school shooting that occurred one week ago, on Tuesday, February 10th.
The Province says that “single-wide” trailers will be used as the temporary facilities, and will be set up on the grounds of Tumbler Ridge Elementary school.
“We know routine and community are important to many in the aftermath of a tragedy and we know change can cause uncertainty,” said Chad Anderson, chair, Peace River South School Board.
“We are continuing to use a compassionate, trauma-informed approach that includes providing updates to the school community, families and the public about a planned return to school in the coming days. As we prepare to restart classes, the safety and wellness of students, staff and the whole school community continue to guide everything we do.”
In total, there will be 14 units that will serve as temporary classrooms and bathroom facilities. The Province anticipates that the trailers will all have been delivered as of Wednesday, February 18th.
Following their delivery it will take several days to set the units up for water and heating and to furnish them for returning students and staff.
The single-wide trailers are just an interim measure, and the Province says that more spacious double-wide trailers will be arriving in the coming weeks.
According to the Province, a date for classes to resume in Tumbler Ridge has not yet been confirmed.
Though many students in the community are looking forward to getting together and learning once again, school officials recognize and respect the fact that some may need more time.
“We are working around the clock to ensure the school district has what they need to support students and their families,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure.
Ma added that he is grateful to the Peace River South School District 59, staff from the ministries of Education and Child Care and Infrastructure, BC Wildfire Service, Fort Modular, ATCO Structures, CBRE and DBI Transport for helping in this endeavour.
To help students and faculty members navigate coming back to school, the temporary classrooms will also have space for counsellors and support staff.
For the time being, counselling and trauma supports continue to be available at Tumbler Ridge Community Centre.
