The NWT government and Behdzi Ahda’ First Nation say long-awaited modular classrooms have arrived in Colville Lake and they have chosen a site for a new, permanent school.
“These two significant milestones are bringing a much-needed upgrade to Colville Lake facilities,” Chief Richard Kochon stated in a Thursday news release.
The Sahtu community was originally due to receive three modular buildings – two classrooms and a bathroom – in February 2024.
Two winter road seasons came and went without the units arriving, however, after delivery challenges led to delays.
The GNWT said on Thursday that successful delivery of the modular units from Enterprise to Colville Lake, “represents a major operational accomplishment.” It said the effort involved extensive planning, coordinated escorts, closures and temporary delays on Highway 1 and the Mackenzie Valley Winter Road, and close collaboration with the Behdzi Ahda’ First Nation.
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“Successfully delivering these modular school units to Colville Lake is a major achievement and a testament to the skill, planning and teamwork of everyone involved,” stated infrastructure minister Vince McKay.
“Winter road operations are never easy and transporting units of this size requires precision and collaboration.”
The modular units are intended to act as an interim solution until a new school is built in Colville Lake. The community’s current, one-room, log schoolhouse has long been considered inadequate.
“Bringing these modular school units to Colville Lake ensures students have access to safe, functional and welcoming learning spaces in their own community,” stated education minister Caitlin Cleveland.
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“Every student in the Northwest Territories deserves quality educational facilities, no matter where they live.”
The GNWT and Behdzi Ahda’ First Nation said the new, permanent school will be built on a decommissioned airport runway overlooking the community. The newly selected site spans roughly 7,500 square metres.
“The people of Colville Lake have been waiting a long time to see progress toward a new school for their community, so it is encouraging to see these important steps moving forward,” stated Danny McNeely, the Sahtu MLA.
“A new facility will help ensure students have the safe, up-to-date learning environment they deserve.”
