Positive vibrations for Wheatland Crossing opening

By Sharon McCleay - Times Contributor

From the frost-covered grass-shaped cross, found one morning on the undeveloped school property, to the opening prayers from Siksika elder Rena Sinclair, good wishes came from all its supporters at the grand opening of Wheatland Crossing School, leaving positive blessings for the coming year.
The ceremony was held on Sept 26, at 1:30 p.m. in the main gymnasium, where those in attendance heard of the struggles and triumphs that occurred to get the school built.
“This school is unique due to the number of partnerships working together to make this happen,” said Golden Hills Superintendent Bevan Daverne. “This has been a study of what happens when communities come together.”
Getting communities on board, dealing with multiple municipal levels for approval and finding a place for the new school were the first challenges conquered, followed by finding funding and fundraising to provide good learning opportunities for the students. Overcoming disagreements and communicating with multiple partners to reach acceptable solutions was a big triumph. Finally, dealing with weather and building overruns led to some speculation that the school had serious mojo problems.
“To those who said it couldn’t be done … we are here and open for business,” said Village of Standard Mayor Alan Larsen.
Many dignitaries from municipalities, government, and businesses that supported the effort were on hand.
Principal Karen Smith indicated how happy the students were with the new facility and showed a video of them helping set up for the school year. The student choir sang “What a wonderful world” written by Louis Armstrong. Trustee David Price presented a plaque for the building. A Canadian flag was presented to the principal from MP Martin Shield’s office.
Special mentions were given to Alberta Education, Alberta Infrastructure, ACI Architects, Delnor Construction, the Wheatland Crossing School Council and staff, Friends of East Wheatland Society and East Wheatland working group, the villages of Hussar, Standard, and Rockyford, the hamlet of Gleichen, Wheatland County and the Klaiber family for donating the land for the school.
Following the ceremony, student guides gave attendees a tour of the school, showing off specialized areas: reading room, playground, industrial arts and culinary rooms, media lab, drama and music areas and a lunch kitchen. Cake cutting included cupcakes for all the students in the school.