Construction of the new Penhold Waskasoo Middle School is underway, following a sod-turning event on May 24.  

School leaders, division staff, school board trustees, Town of Penhold staff, the mayor and councilors, provincial dignitaries, and future students gathered at the school site for a sod-turning ceremony.  

“Penhold Waskasoo Middle School is greatly anticipated in the growing community of Penhold and we are so happy Alberta Education and the province approved this project,” said Sherry Cooper, Vice-Chair of Chinook’s Edge School Board, and Penhold’s representative on the Board. “I think the facility itself, and the way it has been designed with today’s learners in mind, is going to really benefit students' experience,” said Cooper.  

Board Chair Holly Bilton said the board is pleased with the design and location of the school.  

“We are really excited that our students get to have a new facility on a campus with all of the things that the Penhold Multiplex has to offer,” Bilton said.  

Penhold Mayor Mike Yargeau acknowledged the growing community and need for the school, and the excitement to see the project now underway.  

He explained that the middle school will be in the multiplex recreation area and add to existing trails, high school, and outdoor recreation space.  

“As Penhold grows into the future, this area is essentially going to be our central park,” Yargeau said. “We're really excited to have this added to that area and just the growth that it's going to help spur.” 

The school will accommodate 750 students, from Grade 4 to Grade 8.  

Construction of the facility began in March. The school is anticipated to be open in the fall of 2025. 

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