Students in northeast B.C. are celebrating and settling into new classrooms this year.
Located an hour north of Fort St. John along the Alaska Highway, Wonowon Elementary School held a grand opening for its brand new building this week.
The new building replaces a facility built more than 60 years ago.
Grade 8 student Sophia Siebert said the bright new space is already making a difference in her learning. "I know that it can help to feel organized when you're trying to learn and in a clean environment, it can help your brain."
Grade 9 student Tanalea Kronhardt says she really likes the school's new library and study nooks.
"I feel like we're all excited for the new school and all the memories we'll make," she said.
Former wheelchair basketball Paralympian Bo Hedges grew up on a cattle ranch in Wonowon, and was a student at the original school.
He attended the grand opening and said the elementary has always been supported by great staff and a caring community.
"This community in the north has always been my roots and always drawn me back," said Hedges. "I hope you all feel the same and have a great experience here."
In Fort St. John, Grade 7 students at Dr. Kearney Middle School have been enjoying eight new classrooms as part of a wing that opened in January.
School District 60 board chair Helen Gilbert says the new space is helpful for Grade 7 students who are moving into middle school. "It just gives a little bit of breathing room," she said. "Having the Grade 7s in their own area is nice."
The new wing accommodates 200 students, with plenty of room for Indigenous services and other supports.
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Matt Preprost & Tom Summer CBC Fort St. John | 
