Star City School to undergo review as enrolment continues to decline

Lair told northeastNOW the school, which was recently reduced from a K-12 to a K-6 facility, has experienced declining enrolment for some time. The division had hoped the change to an elementary school would create more sustainable enrolment numbers.

“However, we have found over the course of the last two years that elementary enrollment continued to decline,” Lair said. “Our projections for next year are 17 students, and so we do see significant decline.”

Lair said the board’s financial responsibilities and student well-being are among the factors being considered. She added it can be difficult for students when there is only one student their age in a school.

The school review process is legislated and follows two timelines. The board must decide by next February whether to continue the review, with a final decision required by April 30.

“It is almost a year-long process.”

If the board decides to close the school, transition planning in May and June would include transportation, student intake and tours of new schools, as well as decisions around awards and memorabilia from Star City School. Lair said the SCC would be involved in that process.

“They haven’t made a decision. Their decision is just to start the review process, and then they will, of course, engage a school review committee,” Lair explained.

The board has hired a consultant to support the process and lead the committee. Members of the SCC, two representatives from the RM and two from the Town of Star City would work with the community to gather input and provide advice to the board before a final decision is made.

Lair said the SCC is seeking two additional members to join its three current members. She added she appreciated the council’s engagement throughout the process.

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cam.lee@pattisonnews.com

by Cam Lee

Star City School to undergo review as enrolment continues to decline

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