After years of anticipation, Penhold Waskasoo Middle School will officially open its doors on Sept. 3, welcoming students in Grades 4 through 8.
The new facility replaces Penhold Elementary and marks a significant milestone for the growing central Alberta community.
“There’s something powerful about opening a school in a community that's just been waiting for it,” said principal Lisa Baird. “It's not just about our classrooms and hallways—it's about building a home for learning and belonging.”
Baird, who began her teaching career in Penhold 14 years ago, recalled having just 18 students as the only Grade 3 teacher. She says the town’s growth highlights the need for the new school, which will open with over 400 students and has capacity for 700.
Penhold Waskasoo Middle School features a large Learning Commons on each floor, one of the largest gymnasiums in the Chinook’s Edge School Division and will have a $500,000 wheelchair-accessible playground. The school’s mascot, the Red Wing Blackbird, was chosen to reflect the birds that nest near the ponds behind the building.
“There’s something special about being the Red Wings,” said Baird. “It’s not just a mascot—it’s about embodying resilience, strength, and community.”
Students will have an opportunity to explore the new building during a morning open house on opening day, while the broader community is invited for an evening tour. A formal grand opening is set for Sept. 12, with Chinook’s Edge trustees, the local MLA and the Minister of Education expected to attend.
Baird said staff are eager to begin the year.
“There will be nervous energy for both staff and students,” she said. “But we can’t wait to greet our families and watch our school community come to life.”
The school is scheduled to receive its keys on July 30.
Visit the Chinook's Edge website to learn more about the mascot and follow the school on Facebook for building updates.
** With information from Chinook's Edge School Division and gallery photos from Penhold Waskasoo Middle School Facebook.
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