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Wolf Creek Public Schools receive $2.5 M for COVID costs

Funds will largely go towards PPE and additional cleaning, sanitizing
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Wolf Creek Public Schools (WCPS) received a $2.5 million boost from the federal government to assist with COVID-19 related needs within the division.

The exact amount received was $2,566,550, which the board allocated during its Sept. 17 meeting. Wolf Creek’s portion is part of $250 million being given to Alberta school divisions.

The board recognized support from both the provincial and federal governments in a Sept. 23 press release.

“The Alberta government’s timely distribution of the federal funding is greatly appreciated, and the federal government’s commitment to support school re-entry during the COVID-19 pandemic is of tremendous value, and we are truly grateful for the assistance,” said Pam Hansen, board chair, in the release.

With this funding, WCPS will not have to rely on their reserves, which can now be used for other needs in the fall budget.

“We knew as a board there would be many challenges and increased costs to ensure a safe and healthy return to school,” said Hansen.

“Our staff, from the school to the division level, should be commended for the proactive approach they have taken in planning and procurement of materials to make sure schools were ready for the school year. These funds from the federal government help bolster those plans and supports.”

Based on federal guidelines, WCPS allocated the funds to assist in covering increased staffing, facility alterations, adapting learning spaces, personal protective equipment (PPE), cleaning supplies, sanitizing and increased custodial staff, online learning, and transportation.

The board has earmarked $1,114,100 for staffing costs, $4,000 for facility alterations, $51,000 for adapting learning spaces, $223,560 for PPE, $5,000 for cleaning supplies, $353,000 for additional cleaning and custodial, $722,290 for online learning, $28,500 for additional cleaning and routing costs for transportation and $65,000 to support mental health for students.

Sept. 17 board meeting briefs

New Blackfalds school

The New Blackfalds 9-12 school’s design phase has been completed and the design has been reviewed by Alberta Infrastructure.

Meeting with MLAs

The board will meet with Lacombe-Ponoka MLA Ron Orr and Rimbey-Rocky Mountain House-Sundre MLA and Minister of Environment and Parks Jason Nixon in October during its annual meeting with local MLAs serving the Wolf Creek Public Schools region.



Emily Jaycox

About the Author: Emily Jaycox

I’m Emily Jaycox, the editor of Ponoka News and the Bashaw Star. I’ve lived in Ponoka since 2015 and have over seven years of experience working as a journalist in central Alberta communities.
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