Funding will help build new school in Beasrpaw.
A new program will help to build a new school in Bearspaw.
The province’s student population has grown by 80,000 students in the last three years, which has created an increased demand for school space across the education system.
Independent schools are no exception to the rising enrolment pressures, as student numbers are expected to grow 11.4 per cent in the 2026-2027 school year.
To create more room for students, the Alberta government is launching an Independent School Capital program, which will provide upwards of $10 million in matching grants to eligible independent school boards to create more spaces for schools.
“Independent schools serve many students with complex learning needs, including those with significant disabilities,” the Minister of Education and Childcare, Demetrios Nicolaides, stated in a media release. “Supporting school choice ensures families can select the learning environment that best meets their child’s unique needs and gives students the support they need to succeed.”
The first grant under this new program has been awarded to the Renfrew Education Services.
This $10 million funding will support the completion of Three Sisters Centre, a new school in the Rocky View County community of Bearspaw, which is just outside of Calgary.
The new school will have a 250-student capacity and will serve children with disabilities from preschool to Grade 12.
The school is expected to open in September 2027.
This Independent School Capital program will build upon the province’s investment in public education, which includes $8.6 billion to build over 100 new public schools across the province.
That is on top of the already $10.8 billion commitment to education in Budget 2026.
The grants through the Independent School Capital program are only available to accredited, funded independent school authorities through an application process.
This grant funding is provided on a cost-matching basis.
Existing in independent schools with more than three years of consecutive operations will receive 2:1 (applicant:government) funding.
New independent schools with less than three years of consecutive operations will receive 4:1 (aaplicant:government) funding.
Eligible projects include new schools, expansions, ready-made or modular classrooms, building purchases, and leasehold improvements.
According to the Alberta government, independent schools serve over seven per cent of Alberta’s students, while receiving less than five per cent of education funding.
To learn more about this funding, click here.
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