With just a few months left before opening day, excitement is building at Parkhill School in Steinbach.
On Tuesday, the Hanover School Division board of trustees toured the new school to see the construction progress firsthand. While there is still finishing work to be done, officials say everything remains on schedule for the September start.
Kim Koop, who will serve as the first principal of Parkhill School, has been a regular visitor to the site as construction progresses.
“I’ve come here quite a few times,” Koop said. “Sometimes we’re checking on technology, sometimes shelving, sometimes emergency exits. Every time we come, we’re looking at it through a different lens.”
Natural light and open spaces
Koop says one of the standout features of Parkhill School is the abundance of natural light throughout the building. Large windows, open learning spaces, and modern design elements create a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
“The library is gorgeous,” Koop said. “There’s a big window with benches where kids can sit and read. Between classrooms, there are alcoves with chairs or tables where students can work collaboratively or take a break.”
The building also includes a gym, mini-gym, and outdoor green space, some of which is already starting to take shape with sod being laid down this week.
Prepared for growth
When Parkhill opens its doors in September, it will welcome approximately 311 students, though Koop says the school was built with future growth in mind.
“There’s a lot of development happening in the area,” she said. “We’re opening with some rooms that are still empty, so we’re ready for that growth.”
A separate childcare facility, operated by Happy Feet, will also be located on site with its own entrance and drop-off area.
A close look inside
Superintendent Joe Thiessen says it was exciting for the board to finally see inside the nearly completed building.
“We’re very excited to get in here and see the windows coming in,” Thiessen said. “We have so many awesome spaces—the library, the gymnasium, and the classrooms with all the big windows really look awesome.”
Thiessen says the construction remains on schedule.
“We’re told we’re on time. There’s still a lot of work to be done, but we’re very optimistic and looking forward to opening.”
Grand opening plans still to be announced
While parents and students are eager to get inside, a grand opening date has not yet been set. Koop says they are preparing for a meet-the-teacher night and are mindful that a new school brings a mix of emotions.
“Some people are nervous, some are excited,” Koop said. “We understand that, and we’ll support kids who need a little extra help getting used to a new building.”
As the finishing touches come together, Koop says she’s looking forward to welcoming families into the new space.
“I’m excited. I’ve been working on this for a while, and I’m ready to fill it up.”
-With files from Adi Loewen.