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The Grande Prairie Public School Division (GPPSD) is pleased to announce funding for the design phase of a major addition to Grande Prairie Composite High School, made possible through the Alberta government’s investment of $8.6 billion for school infrastructure.
This funding comes as part of the Accelerated School Construction Program, a new approach that allows school projects to move forward to receive funding outside of the regular budget cycle—saving time and getting much-needed classroom space to Alberta communities faster.
Through this funding, GPPSD will begin the design process for a significant expansion to Grande Prairie Composite High School. The project includes:
• 18 new classrooms
• Space for an additional 450 students
• A total addition area of 2,023 square metres (21,782 square feet) – with the final size being confirmed during the design
“This is a critical first step in delivering long-term solutions for our growing student population,” said Joan Nellis, Chair of the GPPSD Board. “We’re thrilled to be moving forward and thankful to the province for recognizing the needs of our students and families.”
Design funding marks the beginning of a longer process that will ultimately result in a permanent addition to the high school. While design work typically takes about a year, the Division aims to fast-track timelines so construction can begin as soon as approvals are in place. The announcement comes as part of Alberta’s broader response to rapid population growth and increasing enrolment pressures in schools across the province.
In fall 2024, the provincial government committed $8.6 billion to build or modernize more than 100 schools—starting with projects in rural and smaller urban communities, including Grande Prairie.
“Alberta Infrastructure is committed to getting students into desks as soon as possible, while ensuring their classrooms are well-built and well-maintained for generations of positive learning,” said Martin Long, Minister of Infrastructure. “Our province is built on strong communities and projects like these will have a generational impact on students as they learn and grow in these facilities.”