SCHOOLS OF HIGHLANDS AND BELLEVUE
|
|
|
|
SCHOOLS (ALL KINDS)
John Tidridge never really sets out to make a historical document... his writings hopefully add a little humanness! Holly Platt, is with the Edmonton Public School Board (Archives) and is a colleague of Lori Clark. Both have either provided or caused to be provided, the information used. The start of the project (Schools in the Highlands-Bellevue area) had a rocky start due to mismatched computer systems... we all worked at making it easier for John Tidridge
|
Places of Education in the
HIGHLANDS-BELLEVUE AREA
Edmonton, Alberta.
|
John Tidridge assumes you might think that because the school is named Mount Royal that it might be in a district named just that. Not so, even if Virginia Park School is in Virginia Park, and Bellevue was in Bellevue and Highlands Junior High is in the Highlands, that...well you get the picture. However, read on.... Mount Royal is situated toward the east end of the Highlands! Oh, and by the way, Eastglen High School is not in Eastglen... but that will come later! Highlands, annexed to the city in 1912, was named in a contest offering a 50-dollar prize. In 1911, real estate developers McGrath and Holgate built their mansions on Ada Boulevard (which was named after McGrath's wife). Other large, well-appointed houses were built nearby, where residents enjoy a spectacular view of the North Saskatchewan River Valley. More modest housing is located further from the valley.
Perhaps we shall find out why Mount Royal.
The start of Mount Royal Elementary School is found in the notes below. The style of the notes leads me to believe they must be the rough notes waiting to be transcribed into something more formal. Again I thank Holly Platt EPSB for her help. To enjoy the official EPSB website click here
MOUNT ROYAL (SCHOOL SITE) 7/2/50 City Commissioners be requested to commence negotiations for the purchase of necessary land in Blk. "X" Mount Royal subdivision, to be use 1 for school & park sites, and invoice our Board with proportion be set aside for school purposes. 14147 10/1/50 City Commissioners to be advised that Bd. wishes to obtain approx. 6 acres of land in Mount Royal subdivision (bet. 112-113 Aves. &. 53-55 Sts.) (Block "X"). 14434 10/10/50 Two parcels of land required for Mount Royal site to be purchased through City Commissioners at cost of $19,100.00; to be recommended to Commissioners that they negotiate for purchase of remaining land. 14462 26/10/50 Contracts for construction of Mount Royal School awarded as follows: GENERAL
PLUMBING, HEATING & VENTILATION
ELECTRICAL
14508 5/12/50 Additional amounts authorized to contract of Alexander Construction Co. for Mount Royal School as follows:
14520 19/12/50 Officially named "Mount Royal School".. 14575 20/2/51 Additional amt. $50. authorized to provide Concrete reinforcing mesh for Boiler Rm. floors in Mt. Royal Sch. 14578 20/2/51 Enquiries to be made to see whether Bd. entitled to purchasing priorities which in turn could be used for advantage for purchasing supplies and equipmt. for Electrical Contractor for Mt. Royal School, Cowan Electric Co. 146020 3/4/51 Sec. authorized to issue cheques in part payment purchase school site. from City Land Dept. 14837 23/10/51 Supt. to prepare suitable programme for Official Opening & to include such Trustees in programme as he deems desirable. 14860 13/11/51 Contract awarded to Woodward's Ltd. for supply & installation of drapes in Auditorium, General Purpose Rm., Teachers' Room & Principal's Office in Hazeldean, Montrose & Mount Royal Elem. Schools, at cost of $851.44, as per their quotation. 14870 27/11/51 As Com. League or Home & School Assoc. not yet formed in Mount Royal district, official of Boa~d authorized to incur expense to rent equipment (cups, saucers, flatware etc.) necessary for serving refreshments at Official Opening of School on Fri. Nov. 30/51. 15000 6/5/52 Arch.-Supt. of Plant authorized to proceed with ordering & planting of shrubs & trees on Mount Royal School Grounds. 15093 26 /8/52 S.H. Parsons Construction Ltd informed that tender submitted on Mount Royal Addition delivered after stated Closing time for receipt of tenders and therefore not considered. 15093 26/8/52 Following contracts awarded for construction of 4-room Addition to Mount Royal Elem. School; Arch. empowered to deal with various alternatives called for in the specifications in the best interests of the Board: GENERAL CONTRACT
PLUMBING, HEATING & VENTILATION
ELECTRICAL CONTRACT
15114 23/9/52 Extra of $l,022.15 authorized to Axel Johnson Construction Co. for erection of a concrete block fire-wall in the addition to the Mount Royal school, as required by the City Bldg. Inspectors' Dept. 15284 12/5/53 Mount Royal Home and School Assoc. to be advised that Arch. Supt. of Plant has investigated conditions at Mount Royal School re sidewalks within school grounds and reports that that existing sidewalk facilities are adequate; this opinion occurred in by Board; also that it is the Bd's policy to support petitions for local improvements affecting school property. 15285 12/5/53 Extra of $35 authorized to General Contractor, Axel Johnson Construction Ltd.,to cover cost of modifying design of book-case & cupboards in Office-Library in order to accommodate a foul air return duct. 16735 28/5/57 Letter of A. V. Pettigrew, Recreation Commission dated May 21/57 requesting authority to move fence at Mount Royal School referred to Property Committee for consideration. 15392 22/9/53 Following credits resulting from change in General & Addition to Plumbing & Heating Contracts for 4-room Mount Royal School approved:
15495 Report, Jan, 28/54, of Arch.- Supt. of Plant, re grass-cutting costs at Mount Royal School during Fall of 1953, referred to Prop. Com.
15284 12/5/53 To be advised in reply to their letter of May 2/53, that the Arch.- Supt. of Plant has investigated conditions at Mount Royal School re sidewalks within the school grounds and reports that the existing sidewalk facilities are adequate; Bd. concurrs [sic] in this opinion; also that it is the Board's policy to support petitions for local improvements affecting school property. 18/1/55 Parents of Lyle Cook, of Mount Royal School, informed by registered letter that unless payment of $2, for defacement of a desk at the school, is received at the Bd. office not later than 3 days following, receipt of the letter, the student will be suspended from further attendance at school until the account is paid 15909 22/3/55 Letter re facilities in Elem. Schools received; Assn. to be advised that their resolution will receive consideration in the formulating of building plans . 168487 24/9/57 Letter of Sept. 23/57 from Mt. Royal H.& Sch. Assoc. re Use of vacant classroom at Mt. Royal School as Play school space for pre-school children- sponsored by City of Edm Rec. Commission, referred to Mgmt. & Disc. Committee. 16865 8/10/57 Request for classroom space for play school for pre-school children at Mount Royal School - during day-school hours - not granted.
16769 18/6/57 Request of Recreation Comm. to move fence at Mt. Royal School southward to 112 Ave. not considered at this time in view of objections by Principal and staff May 27/57 11684? 24/9/57 Letter of Sept. 23/57 from Mt. Royal H.& Sch. Assoc. re use of vacant classroom at Mt. Royal School as Play school space for pre-school children- sponsored by City of Edm. Rec. Commission, referred to Mgmt. & Disc. Committee. 16865 8/10/57 Request for class room space for play school for pre-school children at Mount Royal School - during day- school hours - not granted. 18492 23/05/61
18492 23/05/61 That the minutes, relating to the discussions as to whether an empty classroom in the Mount Royal School should be made available as play school space under the sponsorship of the Recreation Commission, be forwarded to the Trustees. Unanimously carried.
16/4/57 The Secretary' Treasurer instructed to write Mr. Talbot,President, Mt. Royal H. & S. Assoc'n pointing the concern of the Board re the breaking of affiliation with Edm. Home & School Council, and asking that they consider rejoining the Council.
4/6/57 The letter from E. C. Talbot, President, Mount Royal Home & School Assoc'n re their non-affiliation with the Home & School Council received and filed for information. 25/3/58 Re- Mount Royal Home ' Sch. Assoc'n & the Edmonton Council of Home & School Associations - the Secretary-Treasurer instructed to advise the Council that he take no action; their letter to be filed for information.
The MicroSociety System
SCHOOL STORIES
HIGHER ORDER THINKING TAKING PLACE AT OLIVER (May 2002) At Oliver School, staff and students have been working on their instructional focus of higher order thinking for the past five years and are using Blueprints for Supporting Teaching and Learning to celebrate, refine and extend their work. "When I arrived at Oliver in 1997, we looked at the achievement results for our elementary and junior high programs and identified higher order thinking as an area of growth for both programs," says Principal Karen Linden. "Our parents wanted a community of active learners and we adopted some unique programming strategies to improve achievement across the curriculum." To create a stimulating learning environment for its elementary program, Oliver worked with parents and community partners to become Canada's first MicroSociety School. Working with mentors from the fields of business and governments create their own government, laws, school currency and banking system and run their own businesses or agencies. The MicroSociety concept is a proven strategy for promoting higher order thinking, by giving students the opportunity to apply curriculum in real life scenarios. "MicroSociety helps students to answer the question, 'Why are we learning this?' and also prepares them for the outside world," says Linden. The students create their own government, laws, school currency and banking system and run their own businesses or agencies. The MicroSociety concept is a proven strategy for promoting higher order thinking, by giving students the opportunity to apply curriculum in real-life scenarios. "A lot of thinking goes on in the MicroSociety," says Jordan Peckham, a Grade 5 student at Oliver and the elected mayor of the student government. "We think about problems like they do in the real world and it helps to prepare us for the future." The school also features the Nellie McClung Girls' Junior High Program. As part of the program, students participate in CEEDS (Curriculum Extension and Enhancement Days) activities in which they plan and implement a wide range of events and projects. Under the guidance of their teachers,the students work on their own in cross-grade teams. Activities have included fundraisers,student crime stoppers, and the design and construction of a secret garden at the school. Dana Stirrett, a Grade 9 student at Oliver, worked with her CEEDS team to organize the school's annual science fair. "We had to recruit all the judges, order the food and prepare the tables for the displays," says Stirrett. "As a group, we were able to do what we wanted to do, which helped us to become more independent thinkers." Janice Kerr, a Grade 8 teacher at Oliver, describes the CEEDS program as another successful strategy the school has used to encourage higher order thinking. "When the students plan an event for the school, it gives them a sense of empowerment," says Kerr. "By working in groups, the students engage in both problem solving and active learning." When presenting class projects, teachers move beyond the basic areas of knowledge and comprehension to encourage analysis and evaluation. For example, rather than asking students to identify the main character in a story, the staff asks them to identify the motivation of the main character. "We teach them to look beyond the simple question, to help them become more critical thinkers," says Kerr. "We teach our students how to ask questions and how to reach conclusions. This helps them to be successful." Parents have been integral partners in the school's instructional focus work. "Karen gives us continual updates about how teachers are using the strategies in class," says Brenda Nycholat, co-chair of the school council. "Next year, parents are going to become even more involved in the program so we can follow through with some of this work at home." Nycholat is pleased that the school is committed to developing students both academically and socially, as well as encouraging them to participate in a greater amount of risk-taking. "The students at Oliver venture out further and take on more challenges and that's due to the school culture," she says. In addition to MicroSociety and CEEDS, the school staff also makes use of graphic organizers, co-operative learning and questioning strategies in the instructional focus work. The school also plans to analyze the calibre of questions that students ask, as one of the internal measures for assessing their progress in higher order thinking. Staff collaboration is another important part of Oliver's instructional focus work. Each Thursday, the school takes advantage of early dismissal to look at student work and explore higher order thinking strategies. All meetings have a professional development focus and other school business is dealt with through e-mail or memos. "Once a month, our entire staff meets together to discuss the instructional focus," says Linden. "We begin each of these meetings with a teacher spotlight, where staff members demonstrate strategies they are using in the classroom." There are also smaller group meetings for elementary and junior high staff that involve discussions about work specific to each program. In addition, there are case conferences, during which staff members analyze what strategies are working best and how to improve programming for specific students. All teaching staff also use one Thursday per month for collaborative planning. Leadership for the Blueprints work is provided by an instructional focus team made up of the principal, the two assistant principals, two teachers from the elementary program and two teachers from the junior high program. Next year, the team will expand to include two students - the mayor of the elementary program's MicroSociety and a Nellie McClung representative. They will be joined by the two parent co-chairs of the school council, one representing the elementary program and the other representing the junior high program. As Oliver's teachers provide leadership for the instructional focus work, the support and custodial staff play an integral role in supporting the instruction that is taking place. "We believe that the physical environment is crucial and helps us to model high expectations," says Linden. "Our school is inviting, orderly and spotless, and this helps everyone to think and act respectfully and responsibly from the moment we walk in the doors."
At Oliver, the crucial work of teaching and learning is always at the forefront. "When we look at the operation of the school, we always focus on the most important work and that is the work of the students," says Linden. The students at Oliver School are using their higher order thinking to bring the curriculum to life, and are learning the skills they need to improve their achievement and prepare for lifelong success. Watch for future stories on the instructional focus work that is taking place in other schools across the district. BLUE PRINTS for supporting teaching and learning (epsb)
AN INVITATION
OCTOBER 1919
Many thank to Caron Court, Librarian at the Journal whose knowledge and patience have been great! John Tidridge One school's budget dilemma; THE CLASSROOM; THE SCHOOL; THE CUTS The Edmonton Journal
The class of Grade 4 to 6 slow learners will be integrated into regular classes. In turn, the pupil-teacher ratio will increase in those classes by about four students. Instead of 21 to 25 students per class, there will be 25 to 29 students. There will be less individual attention. Instruction in French as a second language may be wiped out in Grade 4. THE SCHOOL Today, Mount Royal Elementary School has: THE CUTS The Klein government's cuts means the school has to slash $68,000 from its budget starting September 1, leaving a balance of $565.12 To do this, the principal is proposing: Saving $57,000 in salary and benefits by eliminating one full-time teacher and one full-time teacher's aid. Saving $11,000 by getting rid of another part-time teacher's aid. Softening that blow by cutting French as a second language in Grade 4, saving $6,000. Mount Royal elementary school principal Ilene Larson rolls her eyes when asked if the provincial government's education cuts are going to hurt students in the classroom. Starting next September, cuts will create higher pupil-teacher ratios and leave teachers at her school with less time for children with learning difficulties, Larson says. "It's going to be difficult to give all the children the support they need so they can be successful in their academic studies." The busy principal calculates she'll have to hack $68,000 out of her school's $634,000 budget for 1994-95 to help Edmonton's public school board absorb a 12.4 per cent drop in provincial funding Sept. 1. Each of the board's 200 principals was told last week they must find ways to cut their budgets by nine per cent in 1994-95. At the same time they face an increase of 2.5 per cent in staff benefit payments and other fixed costs. "It's going to have a direct effect," Larson said Wednesday. "Because we're so small and there aren't many places to look (for money), it will mean the loss of a full-time teacher." The school's half-day kindergarten teacher is also going to have her hours cut in half because of a 50 per cent reduction in provincial funding. Two teacher's aides - one full-time and one part-time - also face the axe. Premier Ralph Klein has repeatedly promised cuts won't affect children in the classroom. But the aides work in both regular classrooms and special-education classrooms to give kids the extra help they need, said Larson. One of the special-education classes is for students with behavior disorders and the other is for students who have learning problems. Alberta Education has a new policy that encourages integrating children with special needs into regular classrooms. But Edmonton public schools still let parents send these children to segregated classes at certain schools. Mount Royal is one of those schools, said Larson. But budget restraints mean she'll probably have to eliminate the special Grade 4-6 class for children with learning problems. "I don't have another choice," she said, stressing school trustees must still approve her proposals for saving money. The children would be put into regular classrooms. That would increase the pupil-teacher ratio in Grades 4-6 by about four students in each grade, said Larson. They now average about 24 students. "It's going to make it a real challenge for us to meet the needs of not just the special-needs students, but the needs of all students in all classrooms." The problem is that there will be fewer aides to call on for backup. But Larson is asking parents if they'd agree to stop offering Grade 4 students French as a second language. The program currently costs $6,000. It would still be offered in Grades 5 and 6, said Larson. "If we cut French in Grade 4, that would pay for another half-time teacher's aide." So far, parents have been positive about efforts to try to ease the effect of the cuts, said Larson. "We have a very strong parent advisory committee and we've talked about how to use volunteers more effectively." But volunteers can't replace highly-trained teacher aides and teachers, she said. The teacher who faces losing her job at Mount Royal next September has 10 years experience and is trained to deal with children with special learning problems, said Larson. "She has been a really valuable part of my staff and I hate to let her go." She may end up working in another Edmonton public school, depending on how many teachers are declared surplus in other schools and their seniority. The effects of the cutbacks on classrooms may be reduced if teachers, custodians and support staff agree to a five per cent salary roll back, said board spokesman Rick Preston. That money will be directed back to schools if the board negotiates lower wages during contract talks next year, he said.
The Edmonton Journal Troy Runzer doesn't like gambling, but says banning it would be wrong. But the father of two is drawing the line at using gambling to raise funds for his daughter's cash-strapped elementary school. "What will be next -- strip-a-thons? Gambling is an irresponsible way to fund schools. It teaches our kids that morality is flexible and it is all right to benefit out of other people's misery." As chair of the parents' council for Mount Royal elementary school in north Edmonton, Runzer recently circulated a letter asking parents to reconsider plans for an October casino fund-raiser. As an education student at the University of Alberta, he's worked in several local schools as a student-teacher. Runzer said provincial education cuts have been too deep and schools are now forced to fund-raise to simply maintain their standards. "The only reason parents have stopped screaming about this is because they think it has become hopeless." In recent years, two casinos have netted the school more than $57,000. The money was spent on a new playground to meet provincial safety standards, computers and reading and learning resources for the school. In 1995, the province moved to a new funding system and implemented school-based management. The province now provides a lump sum of $3,700 per student to provide the basics. Principals, in co-operation with their local school board, priorize [sic]the community's needs to determine what they can afford, says Education Minister Gary Mar. He said education grants are adequate and parents have always participated in fund-raising for the ``extras.'' "The number of people with addiction problems is relatively small and I don't want to engage in a debate about the morality of it.: Parents shouldn't restrict the choice of fund-raising venues because some people don't like it, Mar said. But George Tkachyk, principal of Mount Royal, says the education minister is wrong and the fund-raising dollars are not for frills like field trips. He also questions what lessons the children are learning by getting new resources bought with gambling proceeds. Bauni MacKay, spokesperson for the Alberta Teachers' Association says she fields more complaints from parents every year. "Parents have always fund-raised, but the biggest change is that the money used to be for extras and now it is for basic programs and materials."
Wed Jun 18 1997 Journal Staff Police say an eight-year-old boy did all the right things after he was assaulted on his way to school Tuesday. The Grade 3 student at Mount Royal Elementary School was walking to school when an intoxicated man grabbed his arm and demanded his name and address. Police spokesperson Kelly Gordon said the child did not know his attacker. The child managed to struggle free, run to school and tell his principal, George Tkachyk. Meanwhile firefighters from fire hall No. 7 who witnessed the incident at 113th Avenue and 51st Street, grabbed the suspect. They held him until police arrived. The student is safe and unharmed, but the incident prompted Tkachyk to send a memo to parents advising that students walk to and from school in groups, with older siblings or parents. Herman Peter Thorn, 28, was charged with assault.
At Oliver school, every student has a job and everyone pays taxes. You can start your own business or work in the public sector. If you don't show up for work, you lose a day's wages. If you break the law, you end up in court. It's all part of MicroSociety, a U.S. school reform movement that gives elementary students a taste of the real world for a few hours a week. Oliver was the first Canadian school to try it. Mount Royal will be the second, starting Feb. 10. We asked some of Oliver's citizens to talk about their work and advise their counterparts at Mount Royal. Receiver-general Julia Nguyen, 10, earns $88 a week in Moose Moolah, the currency of Oliver. She ensures everyone pays $15 a week in income taxes, as well as business taxes. Q: What advice do you have for Mount Royal's receiver general? Chief Justice Gloria Alamrew, 10, resolves disputes and oversees Oliver's charter of rights and responsibilities. She earns $125 a week. Q: What do you do? Celeste Moir, 8, is deputy mayor. This is her second term as the MicroSociety's second highest elected official, for which she is paid $85 a week. Q: What does a deputy mayor do? Kristina Correa, 8, works in a crafts shop called Art Galore X 4. She makes animals out of construction paper and sells them. She's paid the minimum wage, $40 a week. Q: What's your job? Jonathon Savard, 7, works at Dinomania, a shop that makes and sells dinosaur-related objects like dioramas and joke books. He earns $40 a week. Q: What do you like best about your job? Jessica Peretic, 5, works in the post office, based in the kindergarten class. She gets $40 a week to make stamps and sort and deliver the mail.
Q: What do you like best?
Prime Minister Andrea and her Nana (Tidridge) While attending Mount Royal School part of the curriculum was the MicroSociety School, an American based program. It ran in the school for several years but gradually died out. Andrea ran for and was elected Prime Minister in about 1994. The MicroSociety School A MicroSociety school is a K-8 learning environment. The innovative concept was created in 1967 as one teacher's effort to restructure his classroom into an academically challenging and interactive place to motivate students to want to learn and succeed. Dr. George Richmond, then a rookie teacher in New York City, introduced the idea of creating a functioning miniature society into his classroom as a tool to bring relevance to leaning and to teach individual responsibility. He discovered that even the most disadvantaged children realized their potential to succeed when school was made relevant to their daily lives. A MicroSociety school puts learning theory into practice throughout the school and school day. Incorporating real-world experiences into basic curriculum helps students apply what they learn in the classroom to real life and helps teachers and principals transcend the"stand and deliver" daily routine. By making learning relevant, kids not only want to be in school, they want to succeed. What Is a MicroSociety School? The MicroSociety School is an innovative design where children create a microcosm of the real world inside the school. Each student has a role in running that world. Young entrepreneurs produce goods and services, elected officials establish laws, CrimeStoppers keep the peace, judges arbitrate disputes, and reporters track down stories. All citizens earn wages in the school's "Micro" currency, invest in product ideas, deposit and borrow money from "Micro" banks, and pay taxes, tuition and rent. Classroom connections are made throughout the day. How Does the Program Work? The MicroSociety program has been implemented in kindergarten through 8th grade, from every geographic and socioeconomic community. Typically, students K-8 attend regular academic classes and apply what they learn "on the job" for one hour a day during Micro Time. MicroSociety schools integrate these real-world concepts and skills into curriculum and instruction throughout the day. "Why Do I Need to Know This?" It's a question students ask every day. Many children see little connection between their school work and the outside world. And for many students, good grades just don't offer sufficient incentive to succeed. In the MicroSociety program, rewards are immediate and tangible. Mastery of basic skills becomes necessary to excel as a lawyer, banker, legislator, or entrepreneur. Social and financial rewards transform students from passive learners to active participants in their own development. Self-esteem improves with a new sense of accomplishment. Reading and Writing to Succeed Modern economy depends on a literate work force, as well as literate consumers. The MicroSociety program provides a context that makes reading functional and fun. In the courtroom, marketplace and newsroom, reading, writing, and communication skills spell the difference between success and failure. With MICROSOCIETY's reading program, The Reading Industry, students create an entire industry of literacy-related businesses and services. Math As a Survival Skill Hundreds of transactions occur during "Micro" time each day. Math and basic economics are elevated to survival skills. Students recognize that financial literacy skills are necessary to buy and sell, create budgets, maintain a checkbook, and calculate taxes. They need geometry to measure floor plans or design jewelry. They apply algebra and statistics to create financial reports and spreadsheets.
Living Social Studies The MicroSociety program turns social studies into a living lesson in citizenship and government. Students forge a social contract during a Constitutional Convention. They learn how government works in legislature and debate social issues in town meetings. Coached by teachers, children learn to resolve conflicts, negotiate, persuade, and defend their actions in court. Science In Action Science lessons come to life when students design new storefronts, when entrepreneurs use technology to invent or manufacture products for the marketplace. "Micro" government researchers apply principles of ecology to promote recycling campaigns and design gardens. New $1B funding means updates for aging schools: Leaking roofs, erratic heating among failings in some city schools Mount Royal elementary school shows its 49 years: hallway walls are cracked, some paint is peeled, loose windows are covered with plastic. But the sag in the roof is what most worries head custodian Pradeep Singh. "When it rains the water just sits here and then it goes into the rooms," he said, scanning the roof. Mount Royal is one of five public and three Catholic schools that city boards hope will be renovated in the next three years now that Alberta Infrastructure has earmarked more than $1 billion for school construction. At Mount Royal, overloaded sewage pipes sometimes flood the school during rainstorms. The old boiler gives uneven heat on Monday mornings "We don't let kids wear hats and coats in class, but there will be Mondays where we look away," said assistant principal Bill Wright. "Our gym is so cold some days in the winter that we don't put kids in it. If the school is approved for construction, students will likely change schools for a few weeks or months during renovations", he said. 2004? Mount Royal Super Stars...by John Tidridge
Are we heroes, will we be on the front page? Questions, questions, questions...while the answers may not live up to the expectations of the children, at least they gave of their best. Where did they give of their best? At the recently held Edmonton Journal School Games, that's where! All of the young people pictured took part in the Games after qualifying through events run at the school. Although they did not win the BIG prize...they all gave of their best. If you check the photograph you will find in the front row, from left to right: Andrew Barbe, Lexus King, Joel Whitford. In the rear row, from left to right: Forist Ewanciw, Beverley Porter, Rhiannon Mulek, Taylor Hall, Jade Dye. I interviewed Lexus King and Taylor Hall, and they both felt it was a worthwhile endeavor, they did not win the ultimate prize but they found the experience of competing rewarding...Lexus was particularly pleased because she had to overcome an asthmatic condition. Taylor was not satisfied with his finishes in the relay and 800 m races but he gave of his best. This event obviously involved teachers ... Mr. Glenn Newby (who rounded up the children for the interviews and pictures) and Mr. Colin Woelftey. Mr. Woelftey was sure there were many benefits for the children: the fun of competition; having to meet goals, making new friends, plus the advantage of some physical activity. All in all a time well spent. Well done Mount Royal!! Printed earlier in the Highlands and Bellevue Newsletter. Permission for the photograph had been given to the school.
2005
*a play on the word anonymous. Written by a volunteer at Mount Royal school
1946 was, I think, my last full year in school, so re-entering a classroom as a one-morning a week helper was in 2003, was quite an eye opener! Oh, I had heard all the stories about teachers being under stress (I have several friends and family members who are or who have been teachers and administrators), how tough the job was, and so on and so on!! I also have a fair idea of the salaries and PD Days and long vacations. So what's their beef? First, I have yet to hear any of the teachers, and I make contact with four (over a third of the teaching population) during my short stint in the school, beef. From what I can see they don't even have time for a coffee (or the donut!!). I have come to the conclusion that teachers are the losers when it comes to negotiation rhetoric!! What I have learned, though, is that teaching is tough. (Please don't say if you can't stand the heat get out of the kitchen) Every class that I am associated with has a child who is at a (very) different level of learning than the rest of the class. Every class has a child who has learning difficulty that may or may not be controlled through medicine. The discipline style is so different. While my memory is not what it was, I don't seem to remember any teachers who negotiated with their children to get things done. I watched and listened from a respectable distance as I heard first a teacher, and then the principal, negotiate with a child trying to get her to remove a purse with a long string-like handle from around her neck. I am sure my teachers would not have had the patience or the inclination to deal with the matter this way. This was the same child that the teacher described as having a problem, but they were not sure what is was, yet. Teaching styles are different too. I was sitting-in on a class. We had finished a project and the teacher gave certain instructions and the children began to wander around the room. I watched in amazement as those children required to carry out tasks, carried them out, quietly, and efficiently. I was even more amazed when the teacher began to read, and the children seemed to be listening. The class ended with everyone sat down and just in time for the end of the story!! As I recall how worn-out I am from my two and one half hour stint, with three or four students, no homework to mark or prep, or ... I wonder how a person does it all day, five days a week. And... still come back the next Monday, and the next and the next!! I have always had a healthy respect for my teachers... and my respect now goes to the teachers and assistants that I have come into contact with, this time around, in furthering my education.
2006
Ms. Elaine Ford principal of Mount Royal School, and a strong supporter of children being involved in community affairs, causally suggested I might like to 'do' an article on the activities of some of the children at the school. Piece of cake I thought, as I said yes. I thought I would ask a few questions and... But any way, on with the story!! I have often questioned the partiality of stories one reads in local and national newspapers. That's slanted I would think, that way or that way...that's not really a true picture of what really happened or what the people actually said. I'd never give a 'slanted' story... So like Sir Lancelot, I entered the fray with an open mind, not a slanted thought anywhere. NOT!! But, I did try! Honest! But the story is not about me... really! I spoke with seven young people, six of them lads. It worked out at three groups of two and one single... working at a school has done wonders for my math!! The questions were not directly related to the charities involved... UNICEF, Stollery Children's Hospital, the Edmonton Humane Society or Santa's Anonymous, but to how and why the children became involved. There were certainly no financial perks or benefits. The children all related in various ways that they became involved because it seemed to be the correct thing to do after they had had time to assimilate the material given them. Some of the young people were group leaders or co-captains. Between them they had given up recesses and dinner breaks. Fund raising was a necessity. Now here is my bias, as one who tries to live the Christian lifestyle and is concerned about the sometimes negative reports on the Christian church, I wondered how many of the children I had spoken to attended church... 85%!! In addition to this, several of the children had participated in family discussions related to helping others! Please don't read into this that only church goers do good!! I was duly impressed with the children, their responses and their sense of wanting to help others. All is not lost!!
2009 ID #11845 WILL BE LEAVING THE SCHOOL...SOON (and will have by the time you read this) by John Tidridge
Ms. Judy McKINNON, Administrative Assistant, as the sign on her desk reads, will be retiring as the school year ends at Mount Royal, after 36 years of service. Those that know Judy would say... "That when all around us seems to be...", Ms. McKINNON remains calm and in control. The only time I have seen a re-action (and I have known her for at least 6 years), is when I told her Cary Grant never did say, "Judy, Judy, Judy"! I buttoned-holed Judy at her desk on Friday June 5, 2009: she was surrounded by her 'tools of the trade' and stacks of papers. I learned she was born in the early forties (I have the exact date but may need that at some time for leverage!). Schools attended were: Ritchie, Prince Charles, Sherbrooke and Ross Sheppard. Finishing school she began working for the City of Edmonton, Planning Department (Judy, Judy, Judy, why didn't you stay!). Her career with the Edmonton Public School Board on March 7, 1972 as a Teacher Aide: Judy explained that Teacher's Aide were more like 'clerical assistants' in those days, helping with typing and filing. Ms. McKINNON moved up through the ranks as it were: Her first School was Northmount/Balwin. In January 8, 1973 as a School Secretary (temp) at Belvedere, February 7, 1973, same position at Beacon Heights, February 28, 1973, Parkdale, and on May 16, 1973 a permanent secretary at Mount Royal. From August 20, 1973 until August 17, 1998 Judy had 'other related duties' to perform such as Library and Teacher's Aide, along with the secretary's task. From August 30, 1982 until June 2004, she was 'just' a secretary! On July 1, 2004 to June 30, 2009 she has been Administrative Assistant. Asked about changes, Judy thought there was a more positive way to discipline children now called positive reinforcement. She was pleased that there was less of a stigma attached to being 'sent to the office' and now children will drop in to show off their latest project. Judy said she had nothing but positive memories of her 36 years, both with the children and the staff. Judy gets a kick out of former students dropping in and telling of their experiences and successes. It was particularly rewarding the note the Marcel Evaristo, who recently was honoured for 'teaching excellence', was a student at Mount Royal from Kindergarten through to grade 6. Judy has two daughters and a son, (Shelly, Karry and Jason)... and nine grandchildren. While she has no definite travel plans ... an Alaskan cruise is at the back of her mind. She plans to ease into retirement and to help do this she will remain as 'supply staff', filling in where needed. Go for it Judy and Ciao!
|
As you can see, you would have been correct in assuming that a school called Mount Royal Elementary School would appear in Mount Royal. Tidridge was tempted to cancel the above paragraph but from an early age he has been told not to yield to temptation. It is interesting how the facts have unfolded. Several attempts to get information from the City of Edmonton failed miserably leaving him with the idea that there never was a district called Mount Royal. However, Holly Platt of the EPSB did not give up and discovered this map, circa 1920 from a book called, "Naming Edmonton") and the map is referenced, "Mundy's Map of Edmonton District No. 2 circa 1920's"
July 9, 2021: It is hoped that this slide show, a summary of the years of Mount Royal School can be viewed... MOUNT ROYAL SLIDE
|
Mount Royal School
Time Capsule
A year ago, former students and staff told us about a time capsule that had been buried by a grade 5 or 6 class in 1991, 40 years after Mount Royal began. As we asked around, different people told us where they thought the time capsule was buried. So, we developed a plan!
We knew it was buried about 2 metres deep,so the metal detector didn’t work.We contacted Maverick Inspection and they agreed to help us.
They used ground penetrating radar to send radio waves into the ground which bounce off hard surfaces and show where things may be buried. This is one of their machines
Here is another.
The grade 6 class had a lesson on geophysics and how the technology worked.
They also used their drone. It could do close up shots, infrared, and go high in the sky! This thrilled the kindergarten class.
Can you see the playground? How about the people in the infrared shot?
When they were done, they found one spot that showed something in the ground and three other potential spots. We were so excited! |
.png)
|
Time Capsule continued....
And then used a shovel.
On the first hole, they hit metal! So exciting! Turns out it was construction waste from the time
So, we went to the next hole. And the next. And the next. They ended up digging eight holes in total.
Neighbours that had helped create the time capsule stopped by and they gave us more information. Unfortunately, it didn’t help us find the time capsule, but it was definitely interesting. Apparently it was a metal garbage can that was lined in a green or black garbage bag. Someone said there was VHS tapes in the time capsule. Who knows what else would be in there. What would you put in a Mount Royal School Time Capsule?
|
The next day, a team from Edmonton Public Schools came out and
started to dig. They started with a Bobcat...
the school was built. Two rusted out metal tar pails were pulled out of the hole. But no time capsule.
|
Love, Mrs. Dobson
|
Dear Mount Royal Students, families and community, It has been my privilege to serve as your Principal at Mount Royal School for the past three years. I have learned so much from you and my heart swells with pride as I reflect on your growth. I have watched you grow as learners and leaders over the last three years and although this past year has provided us with challenges we could not have imagined, you all continue to shine. I hold so much hope for your futures, and please know that mine will be brighter for having known you.
|
Places of Education in the
The following are the known places of EDUCATION in the Highlands-Bellevue area...if you know of more, please go to the comments portion at the bottom of the page and notify the editor!
John Tidridge never really sets out to make a historical document... his writings hopefully add a little humanness! Holly Platt, is with the Edmonton Public School Board (Archives) and is a colleague of Lori Clark. Both have either provided or caused to be provided, the information used. The start of the project (Schools in the Highlands-Bellevue area) had a rocky start due to mismatched computer systems... we all worked at making it easier for John Tidridge. From: "Holly Platt" Holly.Platt@epsb.ca Bellevue History.doc Hello John, We will do this one school at a time.
June 27, 1949 EDMONTON PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARD Madam and Gentlemen: Re: Bellevue School Tenders for the General and Electrical Contracts for the above *school closed at twelve noon, Friday, June 24 the. Tenders were opened in the Board Room in the presence of M. J. C. Macdonald, Chairman of the Board, Mr,. R.H. Rae, Chairman of the Property Committee, and Mssrs. William Morrow, H. Fowler, R.S. Sheppard, H. G. Turner, and the writer. All tenders received were offered on a firm bid basis as tabulated herewith.
BELLEVUE
Bellevue is highlighted by stunning views of the river valley and the city skyline.
The attached information is what I have on the companies involved in building it.
BELLEVUE
I have examined the tenders carefully and recommend that the Prudham Construction Company's tenders in amount of $197,114.45 for the Bellevue School be accepted for the General Contracts and that the tender submitted by the Young Electric Co. in the amount of $13,996.00 for *Bellevue School be accepted for the Electrical Contract. My recommendations are in each case that the lowest tender received and the firms are well established, reliable contractors. The Prudham Construction Company has carried out several contracts for the Board with entire satisfaction and Young Electric Co. are successors to the firm S.E. Noble Electrical Contractors on the five elementary schools now nearing completion. I have every reason to believe that their work will be of the same high standard as that of S.E. Noble RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED W. W. Burchart, M.R.A.I C. ARCHITECT AND SUPT. OF PLANT. * letters changed to reflect only the cost of Bellevue
April 29, 1955 EDMONTON PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARD Madam and Gentlemen:
Tenders for the above noted additions closed at 12:00 noon, Friday April 29 th, and were opened at that time by the Secretary-Treasurer in the presence of Trustee D.H. Bowen, Assistant Superintendent W.F. Wagner and the writer. I have examined the tenders submitted, and present a tabulation herewith for your consideration.
BELLEVUE
Bellevue School Principals 1950-51 - 1953-54 Ralph O. Pritchard 1968-69 - 1971-72 Nick L. Hrynyk 1998-99 - Pat Fizell
Bellevue students take to the field - and read to learn Pat Fizell, Principal Bellevue School
The last month or so has continued to be jam-packed with authentic learning adventures for all our students. Ms. Lopatinski's "Meet the Shapleys" project challenged Grade 1 and 2 students to apply geometry skills using a problem solving approach. The children were highly engaged in mathematics, language arts and art as they designed, created and described their own "Shapley Family" world. Our Grade 3 and 4 students investigated Natives in North America through field work integrating cultural anthropology, science, language arts, art and music. Bellevue parent Anna Curtis enriched the project, as did support from Human Resources Development Canada, EPSB Native Liaison Consultant Edith Dalla Costa and Strathcona Wilderness Centre personnel. Besides building a 12-foot teepee, our junior anthropologists created reports and displays describing what life was like 900 years ago. Students in grades 5 and 6 enriched their studies through several field experiences. Miss Jespersen and students used University of Alberta Museums and Collections to learn about archeological research, explore artifacts and prepare reports, presentations and displays depicting life in Ancient Greece. Research into aerodynamics and flight with Mr. Goulden was also a hit. Guest presenters included a professional pilot from Kenn Borek Aviation who used actual model aircraft to demonstrate his points. Students created research reports and displays to share their knowledge of aerodynamics, including flight before aviation. Highlands Library visited us twice, hosting Young Readers' Choice Awards voting for students in grades 3 through 6 on March 21 and an author visit by Karleen Bradford on April 11. Bellevue students are learning to read and reading to learn. Thank you to all our learning community helpers. Our Team Works!
Bellevue Elementary: The 'perfect' school... closes With many thanks to City of Edmonton and Edmonton Pubic School Board Archives and Communications Some school closures are alright, especially during those lazy days of summer, when the last thing a student wants is to attend classes!! Closing a school permanently, however, evokes many memories-some good, some bad. What follows is a mixture of mainly good (plus some not-so-good) memories connected to Bellevue Elementary School. Speaking at official opening ceremonies on Dec. 2, 1950, Mr. H. B. Fowler, chairman of the Edmonton School Board property committee, said Bellevue elementary school had been made as perfect as is humanely possible. As reported by the Edmonton Bulletin, he also said a high school, with technical shops, would open in the adjacent grounds. The school, which had been open since the previous September, would accommodate 400 pupils and 10 teachers. The school's first principal, Mr. R. Prichard, presided at the opening. Mr. R. H. Rae, chairman of the Edmonton public school board indicated the city was trying to keep its education facilities apace with growth. Mr. W. F. Quilley, president of the Bellevue Home and School Association, talked of the vital part this organization could play in the future life of the new school. A woman who served the school as secretary for 16 years is among those who recall happy memories. A cooperative and enthusiastic staff and interesting (had a bit of a struggle for the right word!!) children, immediately came to mind. She also recalled a sparkling clean school, a sign of efficient custodians. She particularly remembered the 50th Anniversary where bulletin boards covered with student work lined the hallways. The Minister of Education at the time, David King, was a speaker for the occasion. See accompanying article for more school memories. Seeing into the future: "Bellevue school reunion could be its last," proclaims a headline in the Edmonton Journal of June 9, 1981. Reunion organizer Marilyn Cross, a former student, is quoted as saying, "With enrollment going down the school may disappear, so this is sort of our last kick at the cat." The article quotes Audrey Clark, the principal, saying that enrollment was just over 70 and she fears closure may be just around the corner. Closure became reality at the May 27, 2003 meeting of the Edmonton Public School Board Trustees. Milestones (?) in the history of Bellevue School
1. June 28, 1949: Payment authorized for a $120 bill submitted by Mr. W. Bulmer to rewire his house, which was moved from the Bellevue site.
School closure policy 1. for elementary schools, an average of 15 or fewer students per grade;
Bellevue School Students adopt a park Grades 1 to 3 students at Bellevue school are preserving and beautifying a little bit of nature in their neighbourhood. Every week, the students bring their rakes and garbage bags to a small park on 71 Street and 114 Avenue. There they energetically pick up litter, leaves and even the messes left behind by neighbourhood dogs.
Kimberly Criss and Wendy Olund "As the weather warms up, the students and their teachers plan to plant flowers, put up bird feeders, and weave birds nests from twigs at the park," says teacher Linda Parasiuk. The students started the project on Earth Day, April 22, and will continue to keep the park clean in the coming years, Parasiuk says. Students and teachers also plan to get together during summer vacation months to care for plant life and pick up litter at the park. Article by Liz Rees, provided by City of Edmonton Archives
Bellevue Baseball Team 1951
The following ladies have been identified: If you know others, contact John Tidridge, 474-1594, jtidridge@interbaun.com
September 18, 1958
Marilyn Cross
I attended Bellevue from grades 1 through 6 (there was no kindergarten). My Grade 1 class had 30 students. We were in Room 8 with Miss McDonald, who attended our 50th Reunion. Grade 1 students usually received a tree on Arbour Day in June. In my Grade 1 year, the Minister of Education came to Bellevue and with the entire school body of over 300 students on the front lawn planted the elm tree that now sits majestically by our front entrance.
The school was full to the brim. In fact, there was no music room, no library, no staff room-just classrooms and portables. The playground consisted of monkey bars, teeter totter, a roundabout and uneven bars at the south end of the school where the parking lot is now located. Community was important, and the school was enhanced by the way the community supported it. Each year, the School Council would put on a tea for the community in our school gym, with students as waiters. The school also showed movies on Saturday mornings for the students who could return. When my children attended Bellevue, we had become smaller. There were fewer children in the surrounding area because Northlands and the freeway had taken many of the homes in our catchment area. My youngest son was at Bellevue when there were only 45 students. He was in a 3-4-5-6 combined class. The playground by this time had been moved to where it is located now, but we had lost the teeter totter and the roundabout because of safety issues. During the years that followed, as a staff member I saw the school once again grow in numbers to around 150. We were able to put in a new playground for the children in the community. Things bustled-concerts, teas, field trips. But again, enrollment declined. It is with fond memories and a sad heart that I see the last of our students complete their years at Bellevue.
from a parent/teacher/volunteer, the late Norma Hawley
Living in our home on 68 Street in 1944, we could believe that we were in a rural area. Facing west, we saw trees and bushes, heard birds, picked flowers and even saw a cow grazing. Northwest we could hear and smell Burn's Packing Plant and regularly hear the train whistle during the night. With the ending of the war all quickly changed, as homes were built in the area for returning veterans and their families. By 1949, it was well settled.
September 1950 saw the opening of Bellevue School. All classes were filled and in a few years it was necessary to add more rooms to the north end. My three children all attended Bellevue and have many memories of their elementary days. The parents quickly formed a Home and School Association, meeting once a month with staff. I remember good meetings, interesting speakers, plenty of discussion, bake sales to obtain funds for the extra equipment-a busy time for all of us. I joined the staff in 1959 and remained for 15 years. I remember crowded classrooms, work-filled days but many exciting, happy events: Christmas and spring concerts, sport days, Halloween parties, Valentine boxes, class picnics in Borden Park, Grade 6 girls serving tea at their "graduation" afternoon. The Bellevue Community League was also active and there was a close relationship between parents in the neighbourhood. Changes took place on the opening of Capilano Bridge and subsequent streets, as blocks of houses were removed and Bellevue lost many families. School attendance rapidly reduced and continued to do so. After leaving the staff, I returned to the school as a volunteer and so have witnessed the decline of the school population. In spite of the low attendance, the excellent teaching and parent cooperation has always been present. After 53 years, Bellevue School will be closed but happy memories will always be with us.
THE END OF AN ERA Bellevue School closed in and later was used by DECSA DECSA
IMPRESSIONS... first impressions, if people only realized how important they are... Now take the Distinctive Employment Counselling Services of Alberta... located in the former Bellevue School. I initially visited the premise about four months ago... my aim: to secure an interview with a staff member. The receptionist greeted me cheerfully, gave me all kinds of helpful advice on how to set up the appointment. On my return in September, different receptionist, but the same courteous help. I met Darrel Regehr, Associate Executive Director, and spent a pleasant 45 minutes with her discussing the function of the organization. I was also given a tour and staff members we passed said good morning, to me, as if they meant it... and, the facility is well laid out and sparklingly clean... So while most of our discussion centred around what is provided and, for whom... and this covered many, many areas, including but not restricted to, working with victims of violence, assisting those whose limited abilities restrict them to very specific tasks, helping to rebuild injury-shattered careers, providing loans to start small businesses, providing free computer and telephone accessibility, teaching people how to complete a résumé, supporting an art program for those with mental health concerns,... that they were funded by a Provincial Government Agency, that they had the cooperation of employers, from varying industries, that they helped employers in the task of developing people, and, that they were very conscious of their position in the community, that a staff of 40-44 people was on the pay roll, that the group started in 1977...all very good and professional... however, what struck me during the course of the interview was that a tremendous sense of caring existed in this organization, it was not just a place where people came in and were shunted or shuffled through various 'steps', alone and frustrated... Persons were carefully monitored with mentoring both during and after a completed program. A desire to see results in the people... I was impressed! Why not drop-in and ask for a tour!! May 2014: WE GET LETTERS... May 22, 2014 From New Zealand: Hi John Thank you for the memories of the above [Bellevue School} which began for me over 60 years ago as an 11 year old recent arrival from Scotland. Bellevue certainly was ultra modern compared to the school I left behind; the system was more relaxed and Mr. Pritchard kept order with a paddle bat, less daunting than the four pronged leather strap I was familiar with. I fondly remember practicing, "Bye Bye Blackbird", for the Christmas Concert. Unfortunately my time at Bellevue was limited as we moved south to Halkirk, near Stettler and a wonderful but different scholastic environment. I attended Halkirk school which was demolished in 1954. It was a three-room affair, complete with an ice rink. My teacher Miss. Bernhart read to the class after lunch to settle the students down. As far as businesses Halkirk consisted of a hotel, a general store and pool hall and the butchery. My father managed the butchery. The grain elevator doubled as a barber's shop. My father managed the quick freeze plant storing meat for farmers he also assisted with the slaughtering of the animals.. We attended the Church of the Nazarene. It is interesting to note the Doan family whose grandson became Canadian hockey captain were church stalwarts. New year was celebrates cooking wieners on a bonfire on the ice. Unfortunately my mother became homesick and we returned to Scotland. My father must have found the decision difficult because he had found his niche. His employer tried hard to convince him to stay, even taking the family to Banff and staying with his family in Calgary. We had arrived in Edmonton on the CNR and left Calgary on the CPR. On board the SS Ascania It's last voyage before the scrap-yard. We seemed to be the only Europeans heading east; our traveling companions were for the most part West Indians, lovely people full of hope heading for the promised land. as an 11 year old I couldn't help thinking why would they leave palm trees and golden beaches for the smog and grey buildings of London. I know better now. We arrived back in Glasgow to snow and sleet. Another chapter in my father's remarkable life. I attended 4 schools within 12 months; what I missed scholastically was more than compensated with by the people I met. I came to NZ in 1963 after 3 years in Australia, there is no where I would rather be. like you John I am blessed, 6 healthy and interesting grandchildren and a wonderful wife for close to 50 years. You are welcome to include these letters in the website. . For the record I have turned 72 and grateful for each new day. We have just returned from our daily walk along the riverbank on another beautiful morning, although we are approaching midwinter the temp. is 18C, a far cry from a Canadian winter. Regards, Bob Deans |
Bellevue is one of the City's smaller neighbourhoods, Bellevue was developed prior to 1950. Eastglen Composite High School, which serves students in much of east central Edmonton, is a dominant feature of the area (though a high proportion of area residents are over the age of 60 or retirees).
|
To enjoy the official EPSB website click here
Virginia Park was one of many areas subdivided during the land boom prior to World War I - but it developed slowly, even though the Highlands streetcar line passed through the neighbourhood. Over 80% of all structures were built before 1950. The neighbourhood contains two prominent landmarks, Concordia College and Borden Park, and the river valley is accessible directly to the south. Information from the City of Edmonton website. 
Virginia Park was opened in 1948. It was named after the district. It is located at 7324 - 109 Avenue.
April 3, 1947 EDMONTON PUBLIC SCH00L BOARD Ladies and Gentlemen: Re: Plumbing, Heating, and Ventilating Tenders for Mill Creek and Virginia Park Schools I have examined the tenders received for the above noted work on Mill Creek and Virginia Park Schools and have them tabulated as below:
* added to aid formatting! I have investigated the firm of Haddow and Maughan through Mr. M. C. Dewar, City Architect and he advises me that they are competent and reliable. As their tender is the lowest for the plumbing, heating and ventilating work on both Mill Creek and Virginia Park Schools I would recommend that their tender be accepted by the Board. RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED, **W. W. Butchart, M.R.A.I.C. ARCHITECT & SUPT. OF PLANT WWB:JMc The Butchart family were long time residents of the Highlands, living on Ada Boulevard in the 53 Street block. Edmonton, Alberta, February 7th, 1949
EDMONTON PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARD, Madam and Gentlemen: Re: Construction Mill Creek and Virginia Park schools. The general contractors, Prudham Construction Co., have sent in their final bills for the above schools, these bills being mostly for release of the 10% holdback. As the required number of days (40) have elapsed since we accepted the schools, it appears to be quite in order to issue cheques in payment. One or two small items, however, still require to be carried out or adjusted, and it is proposed to withhold $100.00 from each cheque until these are done in the Spring. With the release of the retention amount we can report the cost of construction to date, as follows:
It is not expected that the final figures will be materially changed from the foregoing amounts. Regarding the contracts for these schools, some members of the Board will recall that the Prudham Construction Co. submitted the only tender on the general construction and that this was awarded on a cost-plus basis. The first plan was for 4 classrooms and auditorium at an estimated cost of $74,000.00, plus $7,000.00 for contractor's fees, but 2 more class-rooms were added, for which the contractor estimated $12,200.00 plus fee of $1,250.00 These made an estimated total of $94,450.00 for the general contract. The final total, however, is $120,322.97 for Mill Creek and $123,470.43 for Virginia Pork. The contracts were awarded in November, 1946, and the differences in the above figures represent the increased costs of labor and material between November 1946 1946 and the completion of the contract, plus a contractor's fee of 71/2% throughout the contract. All accounts have been fully supported by original invoices and copies of pay-sheets. RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED,
H. G Turner Secretary Treasurer
12887 2/4/46 Plan for 4-room Elem. School in Virginia Park approved. 12967 28/5/46 Sec. to call for tenders for school in Virg. Pk. district as soon as plans & spec. ready. 12968 28/5/46 Flooring to be hardwood flooring blocks instead mastic tile us first proposed. 13014 2/7/46 New school in Virginia Park district to be named "Virginia Park School". 13030 23/7/46 Prop. Com. empowered to consider tenders recd. amp; to award contracts for the construction of Virginia Park, Mill Creek & Composite Schools, the action of the Com. to be confirmed at the next ensuing mtg. of the Board. 13034 15/8/46 Tenders recd. for Victoria Composite High Virginia Park & Mill Creek Schools referred to Fin. Com. for consideration. 13062 26/9/46 Contracts awarded to Prudham Const. Co. for general portion Virginia {Park & Mill Creek Schools, contract to be on a cost plus fixed fee basis of $7,000.00 in each case (Est. cost $81,000 including fixed fee of $7,000) 13062 26/9/46 Contract for electrical work awarded to Sunley Elec. Co. for Virg. Park School at $7,995.18 13097 19/11/46 Additional two rooms at Virginia Park to be considered when revised plan for Mill Creek is submitted 13100 26/11/46 Architect's rept. of Nov 26/46 re 2-room additions to Virginia Park & Mill Creek recd. & consd. 13100 26/11/46 Architect authorized to instruct Contractors to construct 2-room addn. to Virginia Park at est.. cost $13,500.00 to be inclusive of Contractor's fee. 13148 11/2/47 Payment of City's invoice covering purchase Block "A" RL 26 (Virg.Park) authorized; & Sec. to negotiate with City for purchase of lots 1,2,3,4 and ABCD Blk.1 adjoining Virg. Park. site. 13165 11/3/47 In view of the delay in the preparation of specifications for the Heating contracts at Mill Creek & Virginia Park Schools, & the time needed to complete delivery of boilers, an order is to be placed with Reliance Welding Works for 4 fifty-horse power steam boilers - separate contract from gen'l. heating con' (the conclusion seems to be missing jt)
13165 11/3/47 Contracts awarded to Potts Plumbing, Heating & Gasfitting Co. for the roughing-in & all underground plumbing work, including,at Mill Creek & Virginia Park Schools at estimated prices of $2900. & $2500. respectively. 13179 1/4/47 Tenders for Plumbing, Heating and Ventilating Mill Cr. & Virginia Park Schools referred to Architect for tabulation and report at the next Board Meeting. 13194 8/4/47 Contracts for Plumbing, Heating and Ventilating for the Mill Creek and Virginia Park Schools awarded to Haddow & Maughan Ltd. at their tendered prices of $32,506.15 for Mill Creek and $32,363.43 for Virginia Park School, these being the lowest tenders submitted. 13244 10/6/47 Prudham Construction Co. extras of $594.68 to each Contract for the erection of Mill Creek & Virginia Park school approved. (Increased Hardware costs)
13245 10/6/47 Sunley Electric Co. authorized to substitute aluminum conduit for Mill Creek & Virginia Park Schools at additional estimated cost of $750.00, if galv. conduit not available. 13248 10/6/47 Architect-Supt. of Plant authorized to purchase approx. 1200 lbs of preferred formula grass seed from Robertson Seed Co., for seeding Delton, Mill Creek & Virginia Park grounds - total estimated cost $708. 13292 8/26/47 Special Committee Report "1-1-47 re purchase of Electrical Fixtures for Delton, Mill Creek & Virginia Park schools rec'd cons'd and adopted. 13296 8/26/47 Additional costs authorized re grounds and basement walls for Mill Creek & Virginia Park Schools (see Minutes) 13299 8/26/47 450 single folding assembly hall chairs to be purchased from Blowey-Henry at $3.40 ea. for use in Delton, Mill Creek & Virginia Park Schools. 13325 9/30/47 Architect-Supt of Plant authorized to substitute stock trim from use in Mill Creek & Virginia Park Schools 13336 10/14/47 Architect authorized to accept duplicate order of Hardware for Mill Creek & Virginia Park Schools. 13352 11/747 Due to delay in opening of Delton, Mill Creek & Virginia Parks Schools and new Principals appointed have not been able to assume their duties, sub-section (d) of section 6 of Teachers' Salary Schedule to be non-applicable in cases of F. W. Wooton and J. Kulak, former Vice-Principal, & the (?) to be paid Vice-Principal's bonus until new schools opened. 13395 12/19/47 Extra expenditures of $1,299.50 authorized for changes in decorating specifications as per Architect-Supt. of Plant. Dec 16/47 13404 1/13/48 Offer of Prudham Construction Co. to purchase 57 surplus doors wrongly constructed through error in architect's specifications for Mill Creek & Virginia Park Schools, accepted at tendered price of $2.50 per door. 13404 1/13/48 Prudham Construction Co. authorized to paint the boiler room & fan room in Mill Creek & Virginia Park Schools, at cost of $141.70 per school. 13433 10/2/48 Architect's action in authorizing painting of concrete floors & stair-treads in Mills Creek & Virginia Park Schools at cost of $145.50 per school ,concurred in. 13433 10/2/48 Architect authorized to have cold water line to drinking fountains in Mil Creek & Virginia Park Schools insulated to keep[ water cool; estimated cost $60.00 per school 13447 24/2/48 Architect to arrange for re-location of hot water tanks and have them equipped with jacket heaters. 13456 9/3/48 Standard rental charge for use of Mill Creek & Virginia Park auditoriums to be $7.50 when no admission is charged and $15.00 when admission is charged. 13465 9/3/48 Due to cost involved for moving boilers at Mill Creek & Virginia Park Schools as authorized, boilers to remain as now located & a door-way constructed at foot of lower stair-case to permit passage between boiler & fan rooms; estimated cost $40 to $50 per school. 133550 2?/?/48 Mr. J. C. Mitchell transferred from Caretaker at McKay Avenue to Virginia Park effective June 1/48. 13566 15/6/48 Sec. empowered to sell work bldgs. at Virginia Park School at $125 for smaller & $150 for larger. 13568 1?/6/48 Action of Sec. in selling 2 small bldgs. at Virginia Park School at $150 for larger & $125 for smaller approved. 13584 29/6/48 Lundy Galvanized wire fence to be erected on grounds of Virginia Park; contract awarded to Gorman's Ltd. at quoted price of $4,674.41 13586 29/6/48 Supt. authorized to engage additional School Stenographer, to be allocated to Supervisors at Art & Music & Virginia park School. 13588 29/6/48 In order to provide some free time from teaching duties for Principals of Delton, Mill Creek, Sherbrooke & Virginia Park Schools, & arising from desire of Miss. M. Bowman not to teach part-time in Elem. Schools, Supt. authorized to add to staff additional teacher from list of appointees.
13609 27/7/48 Trustee Mrs. F. C. Butterworth & Arch. - Supt. of Plant appointed special Committee with power to act in selecting & purchasing furnishings for teachers' room at Virginia Park School. 13609 27/7/48 Mimeograph machine formerly at Oliver School to be placed in Virginia Park School. 13611 27/7/48 Payment of "extras" on Electrical Contract authorized amounting to $2,928.55 13626 24/8/48 Lr. of appreciation sent to Rev. A.H. Schwerman, Princ. Concordia College, for kindness in granting use of College playing field to Virginia Park students to protect newly sown grass seed on school grounds. 13632 24/8/48 Sec. authorized to sing petition for construction of 5' Bituminous Sidewalk on north side of 109 th Ave. from 73 to 74 Sts.; Bd's portion $990.50 on cash basis. 13754 21/12/48 Arch. - Supt. of Plant to obtain estimate on equipping windows of Mill Creek & Virginia Park School auditoriums with Denim darkening curtains; Spec. Com. (Trustee Mrs. F. C. Butterworth, Supt. & Arch.-Supt of Plant)authorized to award contract after inspection of material & consideration of tenders. 13790 25/1/49 Contract awarded for supply of blackout drapes for Mill Creek, Virginia Park & Cromdale Schools increased by $44.40 to compensate for error made by company estimating quantity of material required. 13790 25/1/49 Blackout drapes to be provided for Library room cost of $41.10 as per quotation by C. Woodward Ltd. 13802 8/2/49 Secs. Report Feb. 7/49 on construction costs of Mill Creek & Virginia Park Schools filed. 13855 5/4/49 Baptist Sunday School permitted to use Virginia Park School on Sunday afternoons from 2:30-3:30 commencing April 17/49; rental at regular rate for Sunday Schools. 14031 13/9/49 $25 authorized for lining of window drapes in Library of Virginia Park School 14057 11/10/49 Arch.-Supt. of Plant authorized to have ceiling of Playroom of Virginia Park covered with acoustic tiling at approx. cost of $200 14102 22/11/49 No action taken on suggestion for installing sound-absorbing materials on the ceiling of the Playrooms in Virginia Park and Mill Creek Schools - cost too high in comparison with benefits. 14240 4/4/50 No action taken toward acquiring privately held property at S.W. corner of School grounds.
14333 13/6/50 Permission granted to Virginia Park Sunday School to use the grounds of Virginia Park School for annual picnic Sat. June 19/50. 14431 13/6/50 Item of Addition to Virginia park School left in abeyance for the time being. 14512 19/12/50 If request received from Principal of Virginia park School for extension from the office telephone to his classroom, same will be installed. 14947 26/2/50 Matter of providing stage curtains for Mill Creek & Virginia Parks Schools to be referred to Prop. Comm,; Arch.-Supt. Plant to submit report as to number of Elem. Schools presently equipped with stage curtains; Supt. to report extent to which such curtains may be used in Elem. Schools. 16725 14/5/57 W. E. Lambert, M.Ed., transferred from Fairview Elem. School to Principal of Virginia Park School, commencing September 1957 17719 17/11/59 Supt. recommends that Eastglen be granted free use of gym and 1 dressing room at Virginia Park Elem. School Mondays from 4.00 to 5.30 p.m. for approx. 5 months from Nov 23/59, etc., overtime payment of caretaker assumed by Board.
It's sometimes hard to come up with something special to do for your Dad on Father's Day... but you can't go wrong with a picnic. It's fast, it's easy and it hardly costs a thing. A picnic gets everybody out of the house and gives dads, moms and kids a chance to spend some time together without being interrupted by the phone, the television or the office. Today, Small World has a few suggestions for organizing your picnic with dad. Children from Mrs. Allarie's Grade 1 class at Virginia Park Elementary School have come up with some great ideas for picnic foods and activities. Plus we've got an easy Father's Day craft for you to make for dear, old dad.
The Edmonton Journal The former head of a parent fund-raising committee at a city elementary school has been charged with stealing about $6,000 from the committee's bank accounts. The money raised by the Virginia Park Parent Support Group was to buy computers and library books for about 200 students at Virginia Park elementary school, 73rd Street and 109th Avenue. Two members of the committee's executive discovered $5,950 missing from bank accounts in February and contacted the police. The former president of the committee was charged in late May with one count of theft over $5,000. Unlike parent advisory councils, the support group operates without involvement from the school or the public school board. It strictly performs fund-raising. ``There's been so much turmoil in our school over this,'' said one past member of the executive, who asked not to be identified. ``There are parents on one side that want justice and others ... who can't believe it, even though charges have been laid.'' The money is alleged to have been stolen in a series of seven unsigned cheques issued to the woman in late June 1995. It's alleged the cheques were made out and cashed in sums of as much as $1,500 each. The former executive member said it took the committee two or three years to raise $6,000. ``The bottom line is our kids are the ones who suffer. We're just trying to do what's right and moral.'' The incident has changed the way the committee, a registered society, operates, she said. ``Now it's 30 angry parents screaming back and forth at each other. It's just been horrible.'' Heather Groch, 43, has been charged with one count of theft over $5,000. She is to appear in court July 11.
The Edmonton Journal The incident tore a school council apart, shattered friendships and destroyed the trust of a close-knit group of parents. It's over now, sort of. But anyone who has ever had anything to do with fund-raising for a school should pay attention to the debacle at Virginia Park elementary. It could be coming soon to a school near you. Last May, Heather Groch, the president of the Virginia Park Parent Support Group, was charged with theft over $5,000 over a whack of money withdrawn from the group's fund-raising accounts. A devoted volunteer at the school for nine years, Groch -- who had cheque-signing authority -- maintained she bought numerous items for the school, including a computer, books and sports equipment. Groch said she gave receipts to the support group treasurer for the money in question, money it took the support group nearly three years to raise. The treasurer said she received no such receipts. Eventually, police were called and charges laid. Last week, the Crown prosecutor withdrew the charges after reviewing the evidence. But the questions, the hurt, the anger remain and will likely take some time to dissolve. The Virginia Park parent support group -- which was incorporated as a society, separate from the school -- was a cozy, tightly knit group which conducted meetings in a casual manner over coffee and operated largely on trust. It was split in two by the controversy. Many parents in the support group backed Groch. Others, including former treasurer Leah Heil, demanded accountability for seven cheques issued directly to Groch. ``We never got our answers,'' maintains Heil. ``It's been an awful situation,'' says the new board president, Mandi Wisheu, who took over the board last spring when meetings had devolved to name-calling and shouting matches. ``...We're just trying to pick up the pieces and move on.'' Wisheu says ``really bad record-keeping'' meant there wasn't a paper trail when questions arose over the $6,000. She says the old council didn't keep the books up to date on a monthly basis. Wisheu now insists the completed account books are brought to the monthly meetings and checked. The old council kept scrappy records of parent discussions about planned purchases. Now, before a cent is spent, a parent must make a motion, which is recorded. The cheques are written as a group. ``Our record-keeping is immaculate now,'' says Wisheu. But things are still messy at the school. Jocelyn Peck, a Groch supporter who also volunteered for the fund-raising group, says she no longer feels comfortable in the halls of Virginia Park. Though she volunteered with the school for seven years, she doesn't now. ``This has created a sense of non-trust within our school.'' Peck and her husband, Bernie, who is a chef and partner at the Iron Bridge restaurant, hosted a fund-raising dinner at the restaurant Wednesday to show their support. About $1,000 was raised towards Groch's $3,000 legal bills. And as for Heather Groch? ``It was a terrible year,'' says the 43-year-old mother-of-two who withdrew her son from Virginia Park, worried he'd be affected by the controversy. ``Since the charges were dropped, I've been reliving it all again. When you're on a board in a parent group, not only do you have to deal with these people across the table at a meeting, but also the next day when you pick up the kids at school.'' Mandi Wisheu says not enough volunteers know what they're getting into when they sign on with school groups. They don't know their legal responsibilities, don't realize they are liable for school funds if they have signing authority. Such information is available through the Edmonton Public School Board or the Alberta Home and School Councils' Association. The Volunteer Centre of Edmonton will also provide training for a non-profit board. The school environment is a delicate one. It reflects small-town life in many ways -- a group of people working towards a common goal, trusting that everyone is heading in the same direction. But provincial education cuts have increased pressure on schools to the point where parent support groups like the one at Virginia Park are raising more and more funds to support their children's education. No longer can school fund-raising groups rely on goodwill to keep things straight.
Edmonton Journal `At home' at the gallery: Students inspired by gallery art created their own Edmonton Journal Sun Sep 10 2000 Page: F12 Section: I.N.K. (Information Needed By Kids) Byline: Tamsin McMahon, Journal Staff Writer Dateline: Edmonton Source: The Edmonton Journal What's home? Well, for several weeks Raffaella Montemurro's Grade 4 class at Virginia Park Elementary School called the Edmonton Art Gallery Home. The students visited the gallery to study the art and then worked in the classroom and right in the gallery, painting and writing as part of project called Writing Home. They studied the work of accomplished artists and writers. Inspired by what they saw, the students did their own poetry and artwork. They also visited the home of artist Lyndal Osborne to learn from her life experience. The project explored the meaning of home, their memories of home and pictures of homes -- both real and imagined. At the end of the project, the class wrote to the gallery as if it was a living, breathing thing. The Writing Home exhibit is on display at the art gallery until September 24. Now in Grade 5, a little older and a bit wiser, students Jacob Gramit and Joel Hiebert, 9, along with Kayleen Schnellback, Alanna McAdie and Madeleine Wampler, 10, came back to reflect on work they did last school year and how it affected them. What did you do at the gallery? Did you ever visit your work in the gallery? What did you learn about home? Who's your favorite artist?
What did you like the best about doing the project? What did you like the least? What did Lyndal Osborne have to say about your work? What do you say to people who think art and poetry are only for adults? What did you learn from the project? Were you surprised by what came out of the class? Why use home as the theme? Do you think they enjoyed the project?
|
The start of Virginia Park Elementary School is found in the notes below. The style of the notes leads me to believe they must be the rough notes waiting to be transcribed into something more formal. Again I thank Holly Platt EPSB for her help.
|
EASTGLEN COMPOSITE HIGH SCHOOL
John Tidridge never really sets out to make a historical document... his writings hopefully add a little humanness! Holly Platt, is with the Edmonton Public School Board (Archives) and is a colleague of Lori Clark. Both have either provided or caused to be provided, the information used. The start of the project (Schools in the Highlands-Bellevue area) had a rocky start due to mismatched computer systems... we all worked at making it easier for John Tidridge. For the Opening Ceremonies of the school click here
FIRST THERE WAS..... EASTWOOD HIGH
  THEN THERE WAS....EASTGLEN COMPOSITE HIGHMarch 12, 1954 Eastglen Composite High School, 11430 - 68th Street, Edmonton, Alberta. Dear Mr. Hyde: As of Monday, March 15th Eastwood High changes its name to Eastglen Composite High School, and will take up residence in the new partially complete building. Allow us to extend congratulations to you on continuing your duties as Principal of the new school. I write this letter to bring to your attention several matters connected with the occupancy of the new building. Firstly in the Board's action in appointing Mr. Maurice Munro to the position of Head Caretaker in the new building I feel that you will find Mr. Munro a very capable, co-operative and efficient caretaker. I would ask you to realize however, that during the next several months the school will be operating and our Contractors also completing various parts of the building, and that this condition will undoubtedly present many difficulties and cause inconvenience at times. Mr. Munro as our custodian will have many problems with which to contend, and will require your assistance and advice at times to cope with these situations. The Eastglen Composite High School building is probably the most modern High School in the West. Features embodied in its design were carefully considered, and the general layout lent itself to ease of administration and teaching. Operation of all the features embodied for comfort and convenience will possibly not be complete until the summer holidays, but will most certainly be available in September on the re-opening of school. The heating plant will I think remain under control of the Contractor pending completion and acceptance, but I do not think any difficulties will be encountered. Should problems dealing with operation of the plant arise I would ask that you take them up through my office rather than deal directly with the Contractor. There will be many parts of the building from which students must be excluded at the present time. Our Contractor has asked our co-operation in this connection. I would suggest that you instruct your staff and students to the effect that no trespassing into unfinished portions of the building be made. The mere fact that the Contractor is continuing operations while the school is operating in the building will present enough problems. I am sure you will appreciate this situation and give your full co-operation. I would suggest that your students be fully acquainted with their responsibility in occupying this fine building and that they make every effort to keep it in good condition. I would appreciate hearing from you as to telephone requirements in order that we may take step to have installations made. I believe that in addition to the telephone in the General Office you will require one in the Guidance Councillor's Office and also one in the staff common room. Mr. Munro will be given a telephone when his office is completed. I doubt very much whether the Board will consider any further installation at this time. For your information the street address of Eastglen Composite High School for mailing purposes, etc. is 11430-68 Street.
Very truly yours,
Eastglen was privileged to have all 4 of John Tidridge's children attend the school and 7 of his grandchildren. He hopes the school was better for it! Two of his granddaughters found their future spouses among the other students. Well done Eastglen. His own visits to the school have been restricted to concerts, basketball games and a trip to the office to deliver material. At that time he was impressed with the size of the students...       
Here are the salary figures in Education Public for four years teacher education (Bachelor of Education) with maximum experience at August 31 provided by Paula Coliton, Administrative Officer, Teacher Welfare, The Alberta Teachers' Association.
And the author looks back to his 'early years'.
EASTGLEN COMPOSITE HIGH SCHOOL (Minutes from the Property and Finance Committee meetings) The Minutes contain many different and unusual abbreviations, these have been left 'as is'. 5/2/52 (Prop) Arch.-Supt. of Plant / not to provide inclusive sums in specifications for Auditorium Seats; Auditorium stage curtains, movable lighting etc.; Cafeteria Equipment for Eastglen Comp. H.S. 22/4/52 (Prop) Boy Scouts, under Mr. McCoy, granted permission to cut down trees & brush on Eastglen Camp. site as part of their field craft training program, the trees to be neatly piled or taken away after cutting. 9/12/52 (Prop.) Spec. Com. (Chairman of prop. Com. with power to act) to submit recommendations to Prop. Com. on stage and lighting facilties [sic] to be provided in Eastglen Comp. H.S.- for H.S. purposes only. 20/1/53 (Prop) $149 extra for mail delivery box in addition {sic} to prime cost sum of $200 in contract for Eastglen Comp. H.S. to remain in abeyance; Arch.-Supt. of Plant to report to Committee on type of mail box under consideration for installation. 29/1/53 (Spec. Com.) Agreed that Supt. would form Committee of Teachers interested in Drama and other stage activities to consider & submit recommendations on type, size & quantity of portable stage lighting equipment for this school. Equipment to be such as is needed for school requirements only. 20/2/53 (Spec. Prop) Rule, Wynn & Rule to present to prop. Com. draft of their estimated fees for Eastglen & Strathcona Camp. H.S.
9/6/53 (Spec. prop.) Com. meeting called for June 15/53 at. 4:30 p. to review list of Home Ec. & Ind. Arts equipment for Eastglen Comp. H.S. supporting amounts shown in Supt's report of June 8 1953; if quorum not present matter to be referred to next Bd. Meeting. 22/9/53 (Prop.)Arising from letter of Rule, Wynn & Rule, Sept. 11/53, re possible extra expenditure of approx. $6000 to Plumbing, Heating & Ventilating Contract for Eastglen Composite H.S. in connection with Sprinkler System in Shop Wing, in order to meet requirements & to obtain approval of Western Ins. Underwriters Assoc., Asst. Sec. instructed to obtain cost of installing Sprinkler System as specified by Rule, Wynn & Rule, & to ascertain saving in insurance premiums which would result from installation of Sprinkler System as specified in plans for Eastglen School. 12/1/54 (Prop) In view of Board having previously approved the deletion of borders & feature strips from floor-covering at Eastglen Comp. H.S., resulting in a saving of $2,566.00, Arch.-Supt. of Plant to obtain further information before consideration given to approving the change order advising that only a net saving of $830 would be realized for these deletions, being corrected figure as covered by C.O. #40, submitted by School Architects, Rule, Wynn & Rule. 15/6/54 (Prop.) C.O. #48 re Eastglen H.S. removed from agenda as matter disposed of earlier in the evening in the Board meeting. 17/8/54 (Prop.) Chairman of Prop. Com. given power to replace the Principal's desk and any other items he thinks necessary with more appropriate furniture in keeping with the office setting at Eastglen Comp. H.S. 7/9/54 Request of A. S. Bird, Supervisor of P. Ed., for use of paved area at West end of Eastglen Comp. H.S. for basketball & tennis courts, referred to Prop. Com. 15/9/54 (Prop.) Automatic Vending Co. Ltd. authorized to install both a milk sandwich dispensing machine in the cafeteria of the Eastglen Comp. H.S. and a second milk dispensing machine in Vic. Comp. H.S. 13/9/55 Canteen Services (Edmonton) Ltd. permitted to install, without cost to the Board, hot chocolate and ice cream vending machines in Eastglen Comp. Strathcona Comp. and Victoria Comp. H.S. and a hot chocolate machine in Westglen H. S. subject to the Principal being informed of this intention and he to allocate the installation space. 15/1/57 (Fin.) Recommendation of Supt. Of Schools - re Eastglen Comp. High School Site - City Commissioners requested to arrange for development in conjunction with the Board, 1.63 acres of park property south of Eastglen School site and thus give larger playing area for school activities. 3/6/56 Sports equipment room to be constructed at cost of $965.00 6/1/59 (Fin.) Request of Illuminating Engineering Society for special consideration re rental of Auditorium facilities at Eastglen Comp. High School, not granted. 6/1/59 (Fin) Report of Supt. of Schs. Jan. 2/59, incorporating statements for period Sept. to Dec. 3l-/58, of Cafeterias, Eastglen, Strathcona and Vic Comp. High Schools filed for information 30/6/59 (Fin) Supt. of Schools recommended Lockers be purchased for Eastglen Strathcona and McKay Ave. schools. Account from which funds are allocated left to discretion of Secretary-Treasurer. 14999 & 15000 6/5/52 National Assoc. DC Master Plumbers & Heating Contractors to be advised: (a) That, as invitations for tenders for Eastglen H.S. have already been issued on the basis that 1 General Contract, including all sub-trades, will be awarded, this procedure will be followed for the Eastglen H.S. when tenders are awarded. 15023 20/5/52 Lowest Tenders Cor construction of Eastglen Comp. H.S. accepted as follows and Architects, Rule, Wynn & Rule authorized to prepare necessary contract in accordance with terms of "Instructions to Bidders" in the specifications, General Contract
Plumbing, Heating & Ventilation:
Electrical Contract:
15023 20/5/52 Contract for construction of Eastg1en Composite H.S. submitted to Board's Solicitors, Smith, Clement, Parlee & Whittaker, for approval before being completed on behalf of Board.
15054 17/6/52 Progress Estimate amounting to $1,839.51, being balance of 21/2% fee for preparation of plans and specifications for Eastglen Composite H.S., approved for payment. 15069 8/7/52 Recommendation of Arch. -Supt. of Plant that "Gibbons" English locks be used on the inside doors of the Eastglen Composite High School, at a saving of $8,777.12 over the "Yale & Towne" Locks, approved. 15124 7/10/52 Chairman of the Prop. Com. (Trustee J.H. Thorogood) to report to Prop. Com. his recommendations for the service to be rendered to the students by the cafeteria in the Eastg1en Composite High school and equipment required for such service. 15161 15162 2/12/52 Recommendation of Trustee Thorogood re operation & equipping of Cafeteria of Eastglen Comp. H.S. approved. (See Minutes for details.) 15162 2/12/52 Mr. W. Fraser, Clerk-of-works transferred to this position on new Eastglen Comp. H.S.; supervision to be in addition to the supervision being provided by the Architects, Rule, Wynn & Rule. 15176 16/12/52 Board to proceed with building of composite H.S. on South Side; Architects, Rule, Wynn & Rule to submit sketch plan showing plans for new Eastglen Comp. H.S. redesigned to suit the South side site, together with estimate of their total fee for their services in connection with erection of this school. 15183 16/12/52 Architects, Rule, Wynn & Rule, advised that they are to speed up construction of Eastglen Comp. H.S. and should their efforts fail, they to arrange meeting of Board and all Contractors of School not later than Jan. 6/53. 15188 13/1/53 Letter of Rule, Wynn & Rule Jan. 6/53 re meeting held with General Contractors (Christensen & Macdonald) of Eastg1en Comp. H.S. received; no action to be taken re further meeting with Contractors & Sub-contractors in view of Architects' statement that they anticipate work will progress steadily from this date. 15189 13/1/53 Sec. authorized to make payment of Progress Estimates for material obtained by various contractors for construction of Eastglen Comp. H.S. & placed in storage in Edmonton but not delivered to the job, provided the Architect. Rule, Wynn & Rule, certify that such payment is in order; & that satisfactory insurance coverage arranged at no cost to the Board while the material is so stored. 14593 13/3/51 Two shops at Eastglen to be equipped for courses in Woodwork, Automotives, Electricity & Metalwork. 14767 10/7/51 Progress payment of $20,000 for Architectural services by Rule, Wynn & Rule on plans & Specs. for Eastglen & Strathcona Comp. H.S. approved. 14913 22/1/52 Construction of Eastglen Composite H.S. to be commenced. as early as possible in 1952 at estimated cost of $2,000,000 for Bldg.; and $172,000.00 for equipment, site etc., making total estimated cost $2,172,000.00. (23 rooms) 14949 26/2/52 Arch-Supt. of Plant instructed to take all necessary steps to obtain permit to purchase steel required for construction of new Eastglen Comp. H.S.; if permit granted, to endeavor to obtain supply of necessary steel. 14952 11/3/52 To be built as part of 1952 Building Programme 14982 8/4/52 Architect-Supt. Plant to instruct Rule, Wyn [sic] & Rule to proceed immediately with calling of tenders for construction of Eastglen Comp. High.
15201 27/1/53 Extras amp; credit to General Contract as submitted by Architect, Rule, Wynn & Rule approved: (a) Deletion of weeping tile along west wall of Gym. credit $31.50 (b) Increase in size of footings due to soil bearing conditions ...$5012.00 (c) Addition due to relocation of main drainage lines underneath paved roadways necessitated by soil conditions to make lines more accessible in case or repairs $283.00 15209 10/2/53 Arch.-Supt. of plant to notify Rule, Wynn & Rule, Architects for Eastglen Comp. H.S., that their detailed plan re proposed mail delivery box costing $349 is to be deleted and they be instructed to install a suitable receptacle not to exceed the prime cost sum at $200 included in the contract for this purpose. 15225 24/2/53 Net credit of $144 on Eastglen Composite H.S. due to changes in floor topping specifications, as outlined in change orders #2 and #3 from the Architects, Rule, Wynn & Rule, approved. 15250 24/3/53 Approx. $1000 authorized as chargeable to prime cost sum for stage Equipment for steel rigging in Eastglen Comp. H.S. 15315 26/5/53 Sec.-Treas. authorized to issue cheque in payment of purchase of Eastglen Comp. H.S. site at cost of $47,320.00 115321 16/6/53 Amount not to exceed $88,041.00 authorized for purchase of equipment for Eastglen Composite H.S. for: Pupils' desks; Teachers' desks; Library; Gymnasium; Auditorium seating; Art rooms; Study room; Music room; Drama room; Commercial Room; Home Economics; Industrial Arts; no expenditures to be made for Auditorium seating until tenders for this purpose have been submitted to & approved by the Board. EASTGLEN COMPOSITE HIGH SCHOOL 15322 16/6/53 Chairman of Prop. Com. to consult with Supervisors of I Home Ec. and Industrial Arts Depts. to recommend procedure for purchase of equipment For their respective Depts., 15356 11/8/53 Verbal report and. recommendations of Spec. Com. for purchase of Home Ec. and Industrial Arts equipment for Eastg1en Comp. H.S. approved. 15369 25/8/53 Report of Arch.-Supt. of Plant, August 18/53, on Change Orders to Eastglen Comp. H.S., referred to Prop. Com. 15383 8/9/53 Change Orders #8-31 incl. on Eastg1en C.H.S. submitted by Rule, Wynn & Rule at cost of $11,190.00 for additions & a credit of $15,126.62 for reductions, approved as itemized in Arch.-Supt. or Plant's report of Aug. 18, 1953. EASTGLEN COMPOSITE HIGH SCHOOL. 15394 22/9/53 Letter of Rule, Wynn & Rule, Sept. 11/53, re possible extra expenditure of approx. $6000 to Plumbing, Heating & Ventilating Contract for Eastglen Comp. H.S. re Sprinkler System in Shop Wing, in order to meet requirements & obtain approval of Western Insurance Underwriters Assoc., referred to Prop. Com. 15401 6/10/53 Supt. instructed to list equipment required for Academic Wing of Eastglen Comp. H.S. in order to open the classroom section in Jan. 1954, with a view to eliminating double shifting of Gr. 2 classes at Eastwood School; Chairmen of Board and Prop. Com. authorized to approve the Supt.'s estimated figure for the required equipment prior to next. Ed. meeting if Supt. considers such action necessary. 15416 20/10/53 $1,036.00 for additional steel on Stage for pin-rail overhead approved for Eastglen Comp. H.S. & to be charged to the Prime Cost Sum for stage requirements of $20,000.00 included in Contract of Christensen & Macdonald Ltd. 15438 24/11/53 Following contracts awarded for supply of Classroom Equipment for Eastglen Composite H.S.:
15439 24/11/53 Recommendation of Rule, Wynn & Rule, Architects, that partial sprinkler system being installed in Shop Wing of Eastglen Comp. H.S. be not extended to other sections of the School, as required by the Western Canada Underwriters' Assoc., approved in view of extra cost of $6000.00 15449 8/12/53 Following Change Orders to contract of Christensen & Macdonald, General Contractors, approved: 15479 19/1/54 As from Sept. 1/54, classrooms in Eastglen Comp. H.S. not required for H.S. student. to be used to accommodate Elem. pupils from Bellevue School an Acting Assistant Principal to be appointed to take charge of these classes. 15484 19/1/54 Change Order #39 approved to contract of Christensen & Macdonald, General Contractors, involving extra of $650.83 for changes in door hardware. 15484 19/1/54 Officials authorized to call for tenders for Auditorium Seats and Lockers for Eastg1en Comp. H.S. 15484 19/1/54 Maurice Munro transferred to Head Caretaker of Eastg1en Camp. H.S., effective Mon. Jan. 18/54. 15484 19/1/54 Salary schedule for position of Head Caretaker at Eastglen Comp. H.S. referred to Conference Committee. 15494 2/2/54 Specifications for Auditorium Seats for Eastglen Comp. H.S. to provide for seats with plywood backs & seats. 15511 16/2/54 Mr. Laurence G. Wiedrick appointed Librarian for Eastglen Comp. H.S. effective Sept. 1954. 15515 16/2/54 Spec. Com. (Trustee Thorogood and Cowley, Supervisor of Ind. Arts, and Sec.) empowered to go over tenders received for Shop Equipment for Eastglen Comp. H.S. and make their recommendations. 15525 2/3/54 Contract for supply & installation of 615 Auditorium Seats in Eastglen Comp. H.S. awarded to J. M. Rice & Co. of Winnipeg, at their tendered price of $8 505.47 15528 2/3/54 Change Order #41 of Christensen & Macdonald, Gen'l Contractors at Eastglen Comp. H.S., as submitted by Rule, Wynn & Rule, approved as follows: Delete alarm check valve & connections, gate valve & excess pressure pump & connections ... 15528 2/3/54 Four add'l Caretakers to be engaged - 2 effective Feb. 16, 1954, to replace 2 transferred to Eastglen Comp. H.S., & 2 to replace additional 2 to be transferred to Eastglen when Academic Wing is occupied; making a total Caretaking: 15551 16/3/54 As Committee satisfied error was made by sub-contractor in calculating credit due to Ed. for change in specs. of floor linoleum at Eastglen Comp., revised credit of $1,332.95 accepted; original amount of $2,566 amended accordingly. 15563 3013/54 Extras approved to contract of Christensen & Macdonald, General Contractors, as follows: 15566 30/3/54 Contracts for construction of Industrial Arts Shop Benches and Tables for Eastglen Comp. H.S. awarded to lowest tenderers as follows: (See Minutes for details)
15566 30/3/54 Maximum of $815 approved for purchase of 2 polishing and scrubbing machines and 1 industrial-type vacuum cleaner for Eastglen Camp. H.S. 15575 13/4/54 Letter of Darryl Auten, Pres., Eastglen Comp. H.S. Students' Union, expressing thanks & appreciation to Board for building new Eastglen H.S., filed. 15585 13/4/54 Extra of $197.00 authorized to contract of Christensen & Macdonald for Installation of air and gas cocks on demonstration benches in room 1063 and 1066 of the Eastglen Comp. H.S. 15586 13/4/54 Steel shelving erected & painted in a number of storerooms in Eastglen Comp. H.S. at cost of 1874.59, as recommended by Arch.-Supt. of Plant. 15586 13/4/54 On recommendation of Arch.-Supt. of Plant, metal venetian [sic] blinds substituted. for cloth blinds in Library, Library Work Room. and Student Room of Eastglen Comp. H.S., at cost of $392.48, less credit which will be due from the General Contractor for the cloth blinds. 15604 27/4/54 Report of Supt., April 27/54. re Drafting Tables for Eastglen Comp. H.S., filed. 15605 27/4/54 Contract awarded. to Byers' Machine Shop for 30 Drafting Tables, as per sketch, for Eastglen Comp. H.S. at tendered price of $780.00 15617 11/5/54 Extra of $277 authorized to Christensen & Macdonald for installation of facilities in Rest Room for Women Asst. Caretakers at Eastglen Camp. H.S. 15618 11/5/54 C.O. #48, for providing of Bostwick gates on Checking Room of Eastglen Comp. H.S. Auditorium, referred to Prop. Com. 15624 25/5/54 W.L. Love, G.J. Ross & C.E. Stirling, Industrial Arts Teachers, to be employed in the Shops at Eastglen Comp. H.S., at Carpenter's wages, as required during July & August, to carry out duties outlined in Minutes. 15628 25/5/54 Spec. Com. (Chairmen Prop., Fin. & Mgmt. Cam.) to investigate & report on Stage Equipment for Eastglen Comp. H.S. 15629 25/5/54 15630 25/5/54 C.O. #2 against Prime Cost Sum at $20,000.00 for Stage Equipment at Eastglen Comp. H.S., for building-in of cat-walk over proscenium arch, referred to Spec. Com. on Stage Equipment for Eastglen Comp. H.S. 15632 25/5/54 Recommendations of Spec. Com. for purchase of Shop Equipment for Eastglen Comp. H.S. approved as follows: 1. Supervisor of Ind. Arts and Sec. empowered to issue orders for those items On which the lowest. tenders submitted are acceptable. 2. Where lowest. tenders submitted are not acceptable because the article is not adequate or the price is considered too high for the purpose, the placing of orders to be further reviewed by the Committee.
15648 8/6/54 Extra of $295 authorized to Christensen & Macdonald for supply and installation of deadlocks in the corridor doors between main lobbies and classroom wings of lst and 2nd floors of Eastglen Comp. H.S. 15649 8/6/54 Stell [sic] shelving to be erected by W. F. Macalister & Co. in storage room numbers 163, 1017 and 1035 in the gym. locker roan area of Eastglen Comp. H.S. at cost of $563.71 15647 8/6/54 Extra of $996.60 authorized to Christensen & Macdonald to be charged to Prime Cost. Sum. of $1200 for cast aluminum door numbering, lettering, signs, etc. at Eastglen Comp. H.S. 15659 15/6/54 Following extras to Christensen & Macdonald contract re Eastglen Comp. H .S. authorised. 15666 22/6/54 C.O.#57 to contract of Christensen & Macdonald on the Eastglen Comp. H.S. for supply of hardware to Rm. 163 at a cost of $101. at Architect's request tabled. 15666 22/6/54 Following Change Orders to contract Christensen and Macdonald on Eastglen Comp. H.S. approved: 15675 & 15685 29/6/54 Report of Spec. Com. re Stage Equipment for Eastglen Comp. H.S. adopted. (See Minutes Folio 15685 for details). 15682 29/6/54 Spec. Com. (Trustees Cowley & Thorogood) appointed, with power to act, to confer with Supervisor of Ind. Arts for purchase of Shop Equipment and Tools for Eastglen Comp. H.S., Eastwood & Spruce Ave. Jr. H.S. 15682 29/6/54 C.O. #62, for supply and installation of bronze grill in counter top at Cafeteria kitchen in Eastglen Comp. H.S. at cost of $22, approved. 15682 29/6/54 C.O. #63, cancelling C.O. #57 covering installation of a Dutch-door in Rm. 163 in Eastglen Comp. H.S., approved at cost of $55. 15699 20/7/54 Following Change Orders approved to contract of Christensen & Macdonald re Eastglen Comp. H.S.: 15716 17/8/54 Request for supply & installation of a canvas cover for floor of Auditorium stage in Eastglen Camp. H.S. tabled : pending obtaining or exact total cost of the complete installation. 15717 17/8/54 C.O. #67, for extra of $160, covering installation of car hoist in Motor Mechanics Shop at Eastglen Comp. H.S. approved. 15737 15/9/54 Provided a satisfactory release from the filing of Mechanics' Liens by sub-contractors on construction of Eastglen Comp. H.S. is obtained by General Contractors. Christensen & Macdonald, & presented to Sec. - Treas., approx. $250,000 to be released from amounts progressively retained from the General Contractors during the construction. (MOTION RESCINDED, SEE FOLIO 15753) 15741 15/9/54 Purchase of equipment for Lunch Room, Social Studies room and Students' Council office of Eastg1en Comp. H.S. referred to Chairman of Prop. Com. & Bd. Officials with power to act in placing necessary orders. 15750 15/9/54 Salary schedule of Head Caretaker of Eastglen Comp. H.S. to be $250 per annum higher than the regular Caretakers' schedule, effective from date duties of this position were assumed. 15753 21/9/54 Motion of Board of Sept. 15/54, re release of retention monies to Christensen & Macdonald, rescinded. 15753 21/9/54 In view of terms of Article 3, Sec. (b) of contract between Board and Christensen & Macdonald for construction or Eastg1en Comp. H.S. and statement of Architects, Rule, Wynn & Rule, that $50,000 will adequately cover any uncompleted portion of the Contract, the Sec. authorized to pay to Christensen & Macdonald approx. 1250,000. from retention monies on the Contract; Sec. to obtain from Contractors a Statutory Declaration that no Liens have been filed re this Contract. 15756 21/9/54 Change Order #13, Strathcona Comp. H.S., being extra of $62 on contract of Christensen & Macdonald, to be transferred to C.O. #68, Eastg1en Comp. H.S., for same Contractors and for same amount. 15757 21/9/54 Metal shelving and costume cupboards to be provided through Maint. Dept. for storing of equipment in Dramatics Sec. & Office Vault at Eastglen Camp. H.S., at total cost of $733.73.
15758 21/9/54 City Engineer's Dept. requested to construct bituminous sidewalk fronting the property of the Eastglen Comp. H.S. on the W. side of 68th St. between 114th & 116th Aves. 15761 21/9/54 Request of A.S. Bird, Supervisor of P.Ed., for the equipping of the. paved area at the W. end of Eastg1en Comp,.H.S. for a tennis and basketball court, at an est. cost of $500 approved. 15774 19/10/54 Official Opening to take place Nov. 19/54. 15776 19/10/54 Extras totalling $629.00 authorized to contract of Christensen & and Macdonald on Eastglen Composite High School: 15787 9 11 54 Following C.O.'s approved on Christensen and Macdonald contract: 15787 9 11 54 Extra. approved on following contracts, 15792 9/11/54 Following rental rates for Eastglen Comp. H.S. Auditorium adopted; 15799 23 11 54 Following C. O. approved on Christiansen &Macdonald contract. 15800 23 11 54 Amount of $1724.00 for proscenium catwalk for stage, be approved as part of C.O. #2 for $16,217.49, chargeable , against prime cost sum of $20,000.00 for stage equipment. 15801 23 11 04 Amount of $273.84 be authorized for stage covering canvas and installation at Eastglen Comp. H.S., amount to be charged against prime cost sum for stage equipment. 15815 14/12/54 On receipt of Certificate from Architects, Rule, Wynn & Rule, as requested by the Sec.-Treas., and of a Statutory Declaration from the Contractors, Christensen & Macdonald Ltd., that no Mechanical Liens have been filed against the Title of the Eastglen Comp. H.S. property, $35,000 to be released from monies being held in retention from previous Progress Estimates for construction of Eastglen Comp. H.S. 15816 14/12/54 Additional $3000 from "Capital" account authorized to complete purchase of equipment for Industrial Arts Shops at Eastglen Comp. H.S. 15817 14/12/54 Contract of Christensen & Macdonald Ltd. for construction of Eastglen Comp. H.S. to be credited with total amount of $5,500.00 in accordance with C.O. #78 deleting Prime Cost Sums for Gym. Equipment and Letter Carving which will not now be used by the General Contractors. 15817 14/12/54 Payment Of. total of $222.80, covering installation of exhaust system from emergency power unit for Eastg1en Auditorium authorized, same to be charged against a Prime Cost Sum of $250 included in the Contract this School for this purpose. 15835 11/1/55 Change Order #79, adding $21.00 to Christensen and Macdonald Contract on Eastglen Comp., for replacing doors in. Home Ec. Room, approved. 15889 22/2/55 Following Change Order extras approved re contract of Christensen & Macdonald on the Eastglen Comp. H.S: 15939 19/4155 Mrs. Aileen R. Dent appointed to staff on Permanent Contract at Eastglen Comp. H.S., effective Sept. 1/55. 15951 26/4/55 Miss M. A. Staples appointed Dean of Girls at Eastglen Comp. H.S. for school yr. Sept./55 to June/56, to teach chiefly Psychology 16014 7/6/55 Following Change Orders approved; Contract of Christensen & Macdonald to be adjusted accordingly : 16039 213/6/55 Resignation of M. A. Munro, Head Caretaker, Eastglen Comp. H.S., accepted, effective July 6/55. 16245 17/1/56 Request of University of Alberta ALUMNAE Studio "A" Players for use of Auditorium on Monday Jan. 16/56 to present the production 'Mr. Arcularis' granted and standard rental charged $125.00 for evening. 16275 11/2/56 Bldg. cost including Architectural Services $350,000.00 Architect, - Rule, Wynn & Rule- Eastglen Addition- 14 rms. 16288 28/2/56 Request for extra of $160.00 to contract of Cotter Bros., for installation of pressure reducing valve in the Chemistry and science Labs. referred to Property Comm. superintendent of Schools to investigate and report. 16288 20/3/56 Sports Equipment room be constructed at $965.00 16319 20/3/56 On recommendation of Angus Butler & Associates, the extra of $160.00 quoted for the installation of a pressure reducing valve on compressed air line serving the Chemistry and Science Laboratories approved for payment at $100.00 as the valve installed was larger than required. 16077 9/8/55 Mr. S. Davidson appointed Head Caretaker at Eastglen Composite High School effective August 9th, 1955, at a salary to be negotiated between the Board and the Public School Caretakers' Assn. 16133 27/9/55 Canteen Services (Edmonton) Ltd. permitted to install without cost to Board, hot chocolate machines in Eastg1en school subject to Princ., being informed and he allowed to allocate the space. 16230 1:1/1/56 Request of University Alumnae Studio "A" Players for a reduction in rental of Auditorium of Eastglen Comp. High School referred to Property Committee for consideration.
16232 10/1/56 Experiment in Hot lunches in High Schools - see page 16232 in Minute Book) 16233 10/1/56 Expenditure of approx. $1,150.00 authorized for the providing of satisfactory facilities for storage of inflammable liquids- Maintenance Shops in Old Tech Sch. Bldg and Eastglen and Vic. Comp. Schools 1-45-50 gal. underground tank and pump at each of the ??? schools. 16345 17/4/56 Operating statement For Cafeteria covering the month of March 1956, received and filed for information. 16409 29/5/56 Hand dryers on a trial basis to be purchased at original quotation- but arising out of experiment no further electric hand dryers be installed in the schools. 16469 2 1/8/56 Subject to usual conditions General contract awarded to Poole Construction Co. Ltd. for construction of addition to Eastglen Comp. High School at $225,821.00 164183 28/8/56 Cafeteria. to continue in operation for the 1956-57 school year, its operation to be on same basis as previously set out for the trial period. 16548 & 16549 13/11/56 An easement granted City of Edmonton for construction of a combined. relief sewer on south boundary of 116 Ave. between 68 & 71 sts. on condition that ground. or fence disturbed will be repaired to the satisfaction of the Board, and the open ditch be suitably fenced off to prevent any accident on school site. 16559 20/11/56 Request of Public School Caretakers' Association for use of auditorium on evening of Nov. 23/56 for general meeting for purpose of forming a Public School Board Employees t Credit Union , granted, with Association assuming caretaking charges involved. 16601 22/1/57 The operating statement for fall term re Cafeteria, covering four months ended Dec. 2l/56 as submitted by Supt. Schools received and filed for information. 16738 28/5/57 Report submitted by Supt. of schools, May 24th, 1957 including operating statement for four months ending Mar. 31/57 for Eastglen Cafeteria received and filed for information. 16916 10/12/57 Griesbach School Board permitted to continue to send their pupils to Eastglen Comp. High School through the 1958-59 school year on non-resident fee basis. 16918 10/12/57 Operating statement for Cafeteria for the 3 months ended(?) Nov. 30/57 submitted by Supt. of Schools, received and filed for information. 16934 7/1/58 Mr. Stanley Gordon Deane, B.Sc., M.Ed., appointed Principal of Eastglen Composite High School with duties to commence September 1, 1958; 17002 25/3/58 Request of Dept. of National Defence re children of Air Force personnel in Grade XII & XII at Guthrie School granted permitting their attendance at Eastglen Comp. High Sch. for the school year 1958-59 on non-resident fee basis. 17035 22/4/58 C. J. Allison B.A., B.Ed., appointed Male Senior Assistant Principal effective Sept. 1/58 W. O. McLean M.A., appointed Male Second Assistant Principal effective Sept. 1/58 17150 27/6/58 Report of Arch.-Supt. of Plant June 20/58 re final construction costs filed for information, and action approve (See minutes for details) 17174 28/7/58 Matter of Board assuming cost of widening 68 St. between 114 and 115 Aves. at estimated cost of $2,950.00 for additional parking at Eastg1en Comp. High School, tabled. 17719 17/11/59 Supt. recommends Eastg1en be granted free use of gym and 1 dressing room at Virginia Park school Mondays from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. for approx. 5 months from Nov. 23/59. etc., overtime payment of caretaker assumed by Board. 17200 9/9/58 Scale of rental rates revised effective Sept. 1/58 (see minute for details.) 17234 7/10/58 S. G. Dean, Principal, granted leave of absence without loss of salary in order to attend the Sixth Conference of the Alta. Comp. High School principals to be held in Edmonton Oct. 23 & 24/58 17294 9/12/58 Re- Swimming pool at Eastglen- Board regrets it is unable to permit use of school facilities for distribution of letter prepared by North-east Edmonton Community Council. 17484 21/4/59 Operating statements for cafeterias at Eastglen, Strathcona and Victoria Composite High Schools. covering the period Jan. l to March 31/59, as shown in report of Supt. of Schools dated Apr. 17/59, received and filed for information. 17601 16/6/59 Permitted for 1959-60 term, to select firm for Students' Privilege cards, making own arrangements. 17618 30/6/59 Report of Supt. of Schools June 26/59 re operation of cafeteria for 3 month period ending June 30/59 received and filed for information. 1960's 17900 22/3/60 S. G. Deane. Princ. Eastglen, granted leave of absence without loss of salary for Apr. 11-14 inc 1960. to visit large Se. Hi. Schools in Vancouver and Seattle- subsistence allowance for 4 days and transportation cost one way paid by Board. 17979 10/5/60 Report of Supt. of Schools May 6/60 re operation of cafeteria for period Jan. 1 to March 31, 1960 received and filed for information. 18031 7/6/60 C. J. Allison, Asst. Princ. Eastglen, relieved of responsibilities effective June 15/60 to organize Queen Elizabeth C.H.S. to which he has been appointed Principal. for the 1959-60 school term no change in salary status. 18031 7/6/60 Mr. L. Wendt. Asst. Princ. North Edmonton Sc. transferred to Eastglen effective June 15/60; Mr. Wendt appointed 2nd Asst. Princ. at Eastglen; 1959-60 school term no change in salary status. 18249 13/12/60 Report #1-1961 of the Property Committee re Projects under Consideration in Property Committee, Eastg1en 'Composite High School Gymnasium Addition, adopted as a whole report. 18273 10/1/61 The Report covering the financial operations of High School Cafeterias for period September to November 1960 received and filed for information. 18282 24/1/61 Eastglen Gymnasium addition - Campbell and Fleet to do architectural work, 18289 24/1/61 Eastglen Gym. addition cost to be included in 1961 Building Program, as set out in Report #2-1961 of the Property Committee which was adopted as a whole report. 18291 24/1/61 The type of construction to be used in the Eastglen School gymnasium to be slab-on-grade, with the same type of roof construction for McCauley (Glulam Beams, and Fir Deck,), as set out in Report #3-1961 of the Property Committee, which was adopted as a whole report. 18543 04/07/61 That, as recommended by the Superintendent of Schools, an extra in the amount of $2,791.48, to cover type 'A' fire doors to be installed in the Eastg1en Composite High School Gymnasium Addition, be approved. Unanimously carried. 18487 23/05/61 Contracts for the erection of the Gymnasium Addition to Eastg1en Composite High School awarded to low tenderer in each division of the work. (See Minutes for details) 18543 04/07/61 That, as recommended by the Superintendent of Schools, an extra in the amount of $2,791.48, to cover type 'A' fire doors to be installed in the Eastglen Composite High School Gymnasium Addition, be approved. Unanimously carried. 19453,12/11/63 That the Superintendent of Schools report Oct. 21,1963, setting out that some cracking is occurring in the walls of Eastglen Composite and that, until further testing over a period of several months has been completed, nothing conclusive can be reported to the Board, and that the structural consultants have given their assurance that there is no cause for alarm from a safety point of view, be received and filed for information. Unanimously carried. 19528 28/01/64 letter from City Commissioners requesting the Board to bear total estimated cost of $10,000.00 for tunnel from Eastg1en to swimming pool defferred [sic] as Budget item. See 'city commissioners' 19600 10/03/64 That an item of $10,000.00 be included in the Budget to cover the estimated cost of the construction of a tunnel to provide access from the Eastg1en Composite High School to the Swimming Pool being constructed by the City of Edmonton on that site. Unanimously carried.
1970's 25453 17/06/75 That the report with respect to capitalizing Eastg1en upgrading be received as information. UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED 25698 10/02/76 That the letter from the School Buildings Board advising refusal of support for the proposed Eastglen renovations be received as information and further that a letter be sent to the Minister of Education expressing in a forthright manner but with grace the Board's views about the regulations. UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED. 25797 23/03/76 That the reply from the Minister of Education with respect to Renovations of Eastglen Composite High School be received as information. Unanimously Carried. To see the school's webpage click here
|
The emblem to the left is taken from the cover of the year book for 1953-54 for Eastglen High School Obviously the school opened with a flourish, with all the appropriate dignitaries sending congratulations. The school was touted as the best in the west and great things were expected. The Minutes that are found further down this document give a line by account of much of the building process.|
|
|
HIGHLANDS-BELLEVUE AREA Edmonton, Alberta.
|
|
|
|
John Tidridge never really sets out to make a historical document... his writings hopefully add a little humanness! Holly Platt, is with the Edmonton Public School Board (Archives) and is a colleague of Lori Clark. Both have either provided or caused to be provided, the information used. The start of the project (Schools in the Highlands-Bellevue area) had a rocky start due to mismatched computer systems... we all worked at making it easier for John Tidridge. For the School website click here
|
|
|
|
D. W. HEPBURN |
| Table 1. Total School Enrollments for Highlands School in representative Years from 1912-1957 |
|
|
|
|
|
| Table 2. Principals of Highlands School from 1912 to 2014 |
|
PRINCIPAL Nellie Scarth, April 1912 - November 1914 John Tidridge thanks Ken LeLacheur for information that updated the Principals list |
|
INTRODUCTION 
The Highlands School reflects the sporadic growth of the Highlands district from its beginnings as a rural fringe of the City of Edmonton to its present stature as one of the city's respectable & beautiful residential districts. Highlands School, the Original Building c 1912 Photograph supplied by EPSB Archives, from the Benbow Archives. In its almost fifty years, the school has grown from a one-room ungraded school to a twenty-three room elementary and junior high school, increasing in size periodically to meet the needs of the expanding community. Early History Accurate information concerning the Highlands School before 1912 is difficult to obtain. For several years prior to that time it was a one-room school, administered by an independent rural school district which included the present districts of Highlands and North Edmonton and the present town of Beverley.1,2. Certainly for the greater part of the school year of 1911-12 it was still such a school, with one Miss Ida Murch as teacher.3 The real estate boom of that time had already begun to affect the district, however, so that by March of 1912 the enrolment had reached sixty-six pupils. In fact, it had become necessary to add a second classroom to the building, and in April of 1912 the pupils were divided into two classes under two new teachers -- Mr. Harry E. Ba1four, principal, and Miss Nellie Scarth. 4,5 The registers of 1912 and 1913 include the names of children of some of the district's oldest families. Such names Marian Gimby and Adrian McGrath are examples. The district's continued growth soon made further classes accommodation necessary. By autumn of 1913 there were five classrooms in operation: the following year there were six.6 These four new rooms were located in two new temporary frame buildings on the west side of 62 Street. The original building was on the present school site on the east side of the street.7 The New Building 
By this time it was apparent that a more permanent school building would be necessary. Also at this time the Highlands School became a part of the Edmonton Public School system. While it is certain that the new brick building was begun in August, 1913,8 it is not certain in what year the Edmonton School Board took over the school. The photograph taken c 1922-23 shows Highlands Junior High School (brick), the Temporary Highlands School next to the brick structure, and Highlands Cottage School across from the brick structure. The photo, donated by Mrs. Dorothy Husband, shows, on the left, Gladys Griffith, and Julia May Griffith. Material provided by the Archives of the epsb. Mr. Balfour believes that it was in the autumn of 1913, and certainly it would seem reasonable to suppose that the Board would not begin work on a new school in an area not yet under its administration.9 However, the Board minutes indicate that the Highlands School became part of the city system in September of 1914. Mr. Balfour remained as principal until November of 1914, when he was appointed principal of Park Dale School. His successor at Highlands was Mr. S. J. Davies 10.The first floor of the present school was completed by February of 1916. Consisting of seven classrooms, principal's office, and a small auditorium-gymnasium, it cost approximately 125,00011 a princely sum for that period. The contracting firm was Read, McDonald and Brewster12. The seventh room was indeed welcome, for until the new building opened, Miss Elizabeth Cuming had been struggling with sixty-six grade one pupils in one room in the old building. With the new seventh room available, Miss M.B. Clifton took charge of about half of Miss Cuming's pupils 13 available, Miss. M. B. Clifton took charge of about half of Miss Cuming's pupils. The enrolment [sic] of the School remained fairly static at about 250 until the year l920-21.14 In May of 1919, work on the second storey of the school was begun by the firm of Amundson and Morrison. By April 1920 five new classrooms were ready for occupancy.15 Many changes took pace in the Highlands School in 1920. In the fall of that year Mr. Wilbur J. Kelly became principal; he was to remain at the school in that capacity for twenty-five years.16 At the same time, the school was expanded to occupy twelve rooms and to provide instruction in all grades from kindergarten to grade ten.17 How long the school continued to offer instruction in kindergarten and grade ten is uncertain. It seems likely, from an examination of the registers, that grade ten was taught until l928 or l92918. The kindergarten was probably more short-lived. The years 1922 and 1923 seem to have been 'lean' ones insofar as school construction and extras services are concerned, and it does not seem improbable that the kindergarten may have been discontinued in one of these years. Edmonton Normal School It was in 1920 that the Highlands School became the home of the Edmonton Normal School. "January 1920, A Normal School was opened at Edmonton in the Highlands School, and a class of 110 students was enrolled. These students... after the completion their course of twelve weeks were granted Third Class Certificates in order that they would be available for rural schools in May." 19 Following the short course the Normal School continued offering regular winter sessions. "Negotiations with the Board if School Trustees of the City of Edmonton resulted in quarters being secured at Highlands School sufficient to house Normal classes for the academic year 1920-1912" "one hundred and sixteen students enrolled for the first regular session of this school" "In September a Junior High School was established in the Highlands and as a consequence the Normal School has had the advantage of full practice Facilities from the kindergarten to grade X 20." The Normal School continued to operate at Highlands for three years.... Until the summer of 1923... for the greater part under the direction of Mr. C. Sansom. However, the accommodations became too limited for the increased enrollment "In the fall term (1922) 297 students enrolled and the problem of accommodating this number in the limited space available in the Highlands School was a serious one"21. Finally, in the summer of 1923, the Normal School was discontinued. In summarizing its activities, Mr. G. Fred McNally, Supervisor of Schools, wrote: "The Edmonton Normal School was organized in 1920 to provide a short course for a group of students to relieve the acute shortage of teachers at that time. Three regular classes received their training here during the succeeding three years. In all, nearly one thousand students were enrolled here during its short life"22 1923 - 1947 Following the discontinuation of the Normal School, the Highlands School continued for another two years with little change in its enrolment [sic] and organization. However, work was continuing on the second storey. By June of 1926 there were fifteen rooms in operation, with a total enrolment {sic}of 576. In 1930 all seventeen rooms were occupied, with 678 pupils23. From that time until 1947 the school remained relatively unchanged. One extra room was added, in the boys' basement, providing eighteen rooms. These eighteen rooms provided accommodation for two classes of each grade from one to nine. It was to remain this way until after World war II24 The Postwar Period. Following world War II the Highlands district experienced another period of rapid growth. Until that time the school had been more or less on the fringe of the district. Surrounding were large vacant areas, as indeed there were throughout the Highlands district. The years immediately following the war saw most of these vacant lots occupied. The increased population necessitated the building of a number of elementary schools, viz. Bellevue, Virginia Park, Montrose, and Mount Royal. It also necessitated a great change in the organization of the Highlands School, so that the many students who finished grade six at the new elementary schools might have junior high school accommodation. The change toward a predominantly junior high school began in 1948, and by 1949-50 there were ten rooms of grades seven, eight and nine. This year and the following one were years of extreme crowding. Some elementary grades were taught in double shifts. Extra temporary classrooms were set up in such places as the girls' playroom, the auditorium, and so on. The enrolment reached as high as 780.25 From that year on, the number of junior high school rooms steadily increased, by one or two rooms per year. The elementary classes thus displaced were accommodated either in temporary rooms at the Highlands or in the new classrooms as they were available at the new elementary schools.26 Finally in the spring of 1954, work was begun on an addition to the school - six new classrooms and a gymnasium. The contractor for the work was R. H. Rae. The work progressed rather slowly and it was not until January of 1956 that the grade nine classes could begin to move into their new accommodations. The year of 1955-56 was therefore another year of overcrowding. That year there were twenty-two classes in an eighteen room school. Such a feat was accomplished by housing classes in the girls' basement, the gymnasium, and in whatever classroom was temporarily vacant (i.e. a 'floater'). Finally the new building was ready for occupancy, and conditions eased considerably. At the present time, the Highlands School consists of twenty junior high rooms, and three elementary rooms. This leaves, apparently, one room vacant. That is the room in the boys' playroom, built in the early 'thirties, which served the school in such a thoroughly unsatisfactory manner for so many years. The school serves the junior high school needs of about 660 boys and girls from Borden Park east to the city limits and from l27th Avenue south to the river. The Student Body From its beginning the Highland School has included students of a variety of national origins. The registers of 1912 contain many Slavic names as well as many Anglo-Saxon ones. When the Highlands district expanded in 1912-'14, there was an influx of people of British stock, but this was more or less balanced by an increase in the number of people of eastern European origin north of ll8th Avenue and also considerably east of the school, toward Beverly. Until the present time, this mixture has existed. In the registers one finds almost as many Huculaks and Skulkis as Cunninghams and Hillers The school has also since its beginning included students of all socio-economic classes. The school serves a large area which includes wealthy residential areas as well as working class and industrial areas. The Teaching Staff. In its more than forty years, the Highlands School has included on its staff many teachers who have become well known in the city, either as teachers or in some other capacity. Mr. Harry E. Balfour, the first principal, has occupied a number of positions with the Department of Education and is now the Director of School Administration for the Department. Miss Adele Philp, who was on the staff from 1917 until 1922 is now the wife of Alderman Fred Mitchell. Others include Miss L. F. Munro, Mr. Ken Smith, Mr. George M 1. Interview with Mr. Harry E. Balfour . Conquest, Mr.. George L. Davies, Miss A. Carmichael, Miss E. L. Field, Mr. George Bayly, Miss Marjorie Mackenzie, and Mr. Henry Ward. |
| HIGHLANDS SCHOOL SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES 1918-19
What follows are minutes from various school related boards covering an vast number of years. The Minutes have been copied 'as is'. Abbreviations and comments reflect a different way of doing things. They do present a pretty good picture of the 'good old days', or rather they do point out that the 'good old days' were not necessarily so!. At the end of the Minutes 'some of interest' have been segregated, for example, the trials of being a caretaker, removing ash, spreading cinders, etc
|
|
1400 10/17/18. Report #19-1918, Com. on Sch. Mgmt. re appointment of Miss G. Griffith at Vice Principal at Highlands School. 1571 3/13/19 Comp. from Mr. F. G. Sutherland asking for ruling in the matter of discipline at Highland. Referred to Supt. of Schools with power to act. 1572 3/13/19 Report #15-1919, Com. on Schl. Mgmt. No salary bonus to be paid J. E. Sommerville for last four months of 1918 1599 5/1/19 Report No. 12-1919, Com. on Schl. Mgmt. re salary consideration for Mr. J. G. Sutherland. 1609 5/15/19 Mr. Sutherland granted bonus of $50.00 for 1919. 1613 5/15/19 Report No. 19-1919. Com. on Bldgs.& Grs. recommending that tenders be called for completion of 5 rooms on 2nd floor. 1639 6/5/19 Inspection of Cadet Corp report. 1655 27-6-19 Mrs. E. Boucher request the use of auditorium for children's classes in physical instruction. Not granted. 1711 7-8-19 Report No. 30-1919 Com.. on Bldgs. & Grs. re completion of above school. 1721 21-8-9 Re Plumbing material in connection with above school. 1764 11-9-19 Use of two rooms weekly permitted to Boys Club of Highlands Methodist Church. 1787 2/10/19 Leave of absence granted conditionally to Miss M. E. Balfour until Feb. I, 192-( not date entered) 1840 6/11/19 Com. from Bldg. Com'mr re plumbing material claimed by Ross Bros. Referred to comm. on Bldgs. & Grs. 1862. 6/11/19 Report #44-1919 Com. on Sch. Mgt. appting Mr. Sutherland Principal in place of Mr. Dobson 1891 18/12/19 Ltr. from Dept. of Education, requesting use of upper flat of this school for Normal School. Granted. 1910 18-12-19 Report # 1919. Com. On Bldgs. Gds. Re permission to use Basement of School for Basketball. - Adopted
|
| 1920 |
|
1942. 8-1-20. Re rental of above School used by Dept. of Education for Short Normal Classes 1946 . 15/1/20. Letter from Caretaker rptg. breakage of a window in basement by Trail Runners Boys' Club. 1947 15/1/20. Letr. from F.G. Sutherland requesting financial assistance for Highlands Hockey Skating Rink. $25.00 was appropriated. 2146 16/4/20. Dept. of Education requesting use of one room in Highlands School for storing normal school equipment. Granted. 2161 15/4/20. Report #30-1920 of Com. on Bldgs. & Grs. re final settlement with Messrs. Amundson & Morrison for the completion of the Highlands School. Adopted. 2179 22/4/20. Highlands School granted to Dept. of the Interior, Surveys Branch, Calgary for examination purposes. 2181 22/4/20. Report #2-1920 of Special Committee re rental of portion of Highlands School to Dept. of Education for Normal School purposes. Adopted. 2182 22/4/20. Notice given by S.A.G. Barnes for reconsideration of Report #2-1920 of Special Com. 2182 22/4/20 Quotation of rental charges in connection with portion of Highlands School used by Dept. of Education referred to Com. on Bldgs. & Grs. 2233 11/6/20. Report #26-1920 of Com. on School Mgmt. authorizing a Kindergarten room to be opened in the Highlands School. Adopted. 2241 11/5/20. Motion by S.A.G. Barnes for reconsideration of Report #2-1920 of Special Com. re rental of a portion of the Highlands School for Normal School purposes, lost. 2247 17/6~20. Requesting that girls' playground be put in shape, and the grounds levelled. Referred to Com. on Bldgs & Grs. 2248 17/5/20 Dept. of Education, May 25th, requesting exclusive use of 5 class-rooms, and three offices, and part time use of Assembly Hall. Manual Training and Domestic Science rooms. 2271 17/6/20. Report #38-1920 of Com. on Bldgs. & Grs. re grading and levelling southerly portion of Highlands School grounds. 2274 17/6/20. Report #41-1920 of Com. on Bldgs. & Grs. re rental of a portion of the Highlands School to Dept. of Education, referred back to Com. on Bldgs. & Grs. together with comm. re same from Dept. 2308 2/7/20. Necessary work on Highlands School Grs. authorized to be done. Approximate cost $600.00. 2329 15/7/20 Bldg. Com'mr. instructed to repair ash elevator at Highlands School. 2353 5/0/20. Report #57-1920 of Com. on Bldgs. & Grs. re rental to be charged Dept. of Education in connection with their use of a portion of the Highlands School for Normal School purposes. Adopted. 2354 5/8/20. Bldg. Com'mr. requested to make arrangements for electricity to be brought to the Highlands School. 2373 24/0/20. J. J. Duggan appt'd to look into matter of securing pianos for Highlands & Rutherford schools. 2394 16/9/20. Mr. S.G. McCormack to be paid salary on basis of a 17 roomed school from Aug. l0th , 1920. 2425 11/10/20. Lowest tender submitted for the installation of electrical wiring to above School, accepted, and work proceeded with. 2474 18/11/20. Trail Rangers Club granted use of Highlands School for weekly meetings on same conditions as last year. 2485 10/11/20. Bldg. Com'mr. to report on cost of an outside incline to basement in lieu of an ash elevator. 2505 18/11/80. Work in connection with making an outside incline to basement of Highlands School in order that ashes may be wheeled out, authorized at cost of $400. 2527 28/12/20. Highlands Normal School complaining about unsatisfactory heating conditions referred to com. On bldgs. And grounds. 2538 28/12/20 Bldg. Com'mr to re[port re complaint from Normal School re heating condition. 2547 28/12/20 Report of Bldg. Com'mr. Re complaint of unsatisfactory heating at Highlands Normal School. Action confirmed.
|
| 1921 |
|
2700 15/2/21 Highlands Normal School granted permission conditionally to use the Victoria High School gymnasium on Feb. 19 to play a series of games 2719 2/3/21. Highlands Community League given Permission to use Highlands School for league meetings. 2777 24/3/21 Request for a fence to be built around the school referred to Bldg. Com'mr for report. 2813 7/4/21. Discussion re use of Highlands School by Normal School. 2869 19/4/21 New room authorized opened at the Highlands School. 2934 No action taken regarding comm. from Bldg. Com'mr. re caretakers' fees at the Highlands Normal School. 2951 19/4/21 6/5/21. Report of Bldg. Com'mr. re Highlands School fence, adopted. and work authorized. 3059 7/7/21. Comm. From Dept. of Education inquiring if quarters were available for Normal School. Granted use of same accommodation as last year in Highlands School under same terms with reservation by Board of one class-room,and granted option of using cottage school if same is repaired by them under the direction of the building commissioner of board. 21/7/21 Comm. suggesting that in the $40.00 per month paid to caretaker for night services in connection with Normal School, a few special meetings held not oftener than once a month be included. To be advised that this is acceptable. 3089 25/7/21. Request of Highlands & Dist. Community League for use of school during winter months and also use of gymnasium equipment, referred to Com. on Bldgs. & Grs. 3123 4/8/:21. Mr. C. G. Sheldon present as delegate from the Highlands & District Community League requesting that Grade X be established in Highlands School. Referred to Com. on School Management. 3137 18/8/21. Request of League for School to be fitted up with gymnasium equipment, held over pending a report from the Supt of Schools and Bldg. Com'mr Schools and Bldg. Com'mr. 3156 1/9/21 Report #25-l92l of Com. on School Mgmt. recommending that a Grade X be not established in the Highlands School at the present time, adopted. 3164 15/9/21 Comm. from Dept. of Education advising that they intend using the Cottage School at the Highlands for Normal School purposes. Matter referred to Com. on Bldgs. & Grs. for report. 3177 15/9/21 Report #52-1921 of com. on Bldgs. & Grs. recommending that arrangements for caretaking of Cottage School at Highlands used by Normal School, be referred to the Bldg. Com'mr. with power to act. 3179 15/9/21. Request of Mrs. John Dunlop that her three boys be allowed to attend Victoria or McDougall High instead of the Highlands School. 3267 17/11/21. Mr. A. .U. G. Bury and Mr. Slate present from Highlands Com. League, re request for gymnasium equipment. Supt. and Bldg. Com'mr. authorized to secure standard gymnasium equipment for School. 3268 17/11/21. Request for shower baths to be installed referred to Bldg. Com'mr. re cost. 3337 15/12/21. Report of Bldg. Com'mr re cost of installing shower baths at Highlands School, laid upon the table 3340 15/12/21. Normal School granted use of Highlands School until 11.45 o'clock P.M. in connection with their special function
|
| 1922 |
|
3365 12/1/22 Matter of installing shower baths at Highlands School laid upon table. 3394 19/1/22. It was agreed that a report be submitted as to why shower baths are not being used in schools where they are installed. 3502 23/3/22. Chairman of Board to make arrangements for a Com. of the whole Board meet the Minister of Education and Premier re use of the Highlands School by the Normal School. 3557 20/4/22. Moved that shower baths be not installed at Highlands School. adopted. 3577 4/5/22. Comm. from Dept. of Education requesting additional accommodation of two rooms in Highland School for Normal School purposes, granted, and matters of rental and caretaking referred to Com. on Bldgs. and Grs. for report.
|
| HIGHLANDS SCHOOL DISTRICT |
|
0218 - 18/1/12 - Order of business changed to confer with Delegates (Mr. Hubbard and Dr. Haworth) of Highlands S. D. re amalgamation. Indebtedness $8000 10 yrs. 5 ½ % 0218 - 18/1/12 - Comm. From Dept. of Education re amalgamation of Highlands and Edmonton School Districts. 0248 - 13/3/12 - Secy. Coone and Trustees Thornton and Roglin present at special meeting on this date 0248 - 13/3/12 - Offer to be submitted to Highlands S. D. re amalgamation 260- 18/4/12- A. W. Coone, Secy. Highlands S. D. with resolutions of Highlands Board re amalgamation Part refd. to Building Commissioner. 273 16/5/12 Letter from Dept. of Ed. re alteration in boundaries, as proposed by Highlands S.D. 191 12/18/13 Letters from Thos. Waker and A.W. Coone re arrears in taxes Highlands School District. 198 1/15/14 Letter from City Assessor re taxes
|
|
HIGHLANDS SCHOOL SITE. |
|
Page #13. 17/10/12. Report #64-12 Mgt. recommending erection of permanent school on Highlands Site. Page #70. 3/6/13. Motion re erection of 16 room school on Highlands Site Page #92. 5/1/13 Motion re calling for tenders for erection of school on Highlands Site, type be similar to the King Ed. Sch. 4542 4/10/23. Exchange of properties listed in comm. from City, for Isolation Hospital site, accepted, and difference of $369.00 to be paid in cash by Board. Lot 14, Block 5. Highlands & -bldg. Thereon, included in exchange.
|
| HIGHLANDS TEMPORARY SCHOOL |
|
210 2/5/14 Report No. 7-14 Mgt. Com. recommending that Miss Lusted be granted use of Highlands for kindergarten 741 16/3/16 Report No. 3-1916, Special Committee, re valuation of school building. 767 4/5/16 Ltr. re town of Beverly purchasing above school. 787 15/6/16 Ltr. from H W. Ormerod, Beverly, advising they are not considering purchase of the above school at this time. 842 21/9/16 Report "No. 35-1916 Com. Bldgs. & Grs. re re securing prices on above school 859 5/10/16 Mr. Douglas asked for instructions in regard to the above and its relation to the Cromdale accommodation 928 10/1/17 Report No. 5-1917 Com. on Bldgs. & Grs. re contract of Highlands Temporary School being converted into dwelling house. 964 1/3/17 Report No. 14-1917 Com. Bldgs. & Grs. re settlement with McKnight & Frost for moving and re-erection of Highlands Temporary School No. 1. 116 7/3/13 Report #28-13 Sch. Mgt. Com. recommending that temporary accommodation be erected in the Highlands district. 116 7/3/13 That the matter of erection of temporary two room school be referred to Bldg. Com. with power to act 124 7/17/13 Report No. 29-13 Bldg. Com. re tenders for erection of above school. 126 7/17/13 Report No. 31-13 Bldg. Com. re location of Highlands temporary building. 143 Report No. 33-13 Bldg. Com. approving account T. T. Clyde for brushing and grading grounds. 165 10/23/13 Report No. 38-13 Bldg. Com. Recommending payment of accounts of Chapman & Turner and E. N. Moyer Co. for work done on the above school. 197 1/15/14 Request from Miss Lusted for use of room in Highlands for kindergarten purposes. 866 1?/10/16 Report # 40-1916 Com Bldgs & Grs. Re fitting up Highlands Temporary School # 3 as a residence. 886 1?/10/16 Report No. 53-1916 Com. Bldgs. & Grs. Calling fro tenders for removal and re-erection of Highlands T(?) School #3. 877 9/11/16 Report No. 55-1916. Com Bldgs. & Grs. Re conversion of Highlands Temporary School #3 into a dwelling house. 877 9/11/16 Report No. 56-1916 Com Bldgs. & Grs. Tender received and accepted re moving Highlands Temporary Sch. #3. 886 7/12/16 Report No. 62-1916, Com Bldgs & Grs. Tenders received re lighting above school 903 21/12/16 Report No. 68-1916 Com. Bldgs. & Grs. Re charging Janitor rental fee for Highlands Sch. Temporary #3 which was converted into a residence. 116 7/3/13 Report #28-13 Sch. Mgt. Com. recommending that temporary accommodation be erected in the Highlands district. 116 7/3/13 That the matter of erection of temporary two room school be referred to Bldg. Com. with power to act 124 7/17/13 Report No. 29-13 Bldg. Com. re tenders for erection of above school. 126 7/17/13 Report No. 31-13 Bldg. Com. re location of Highlands temporary building. 143 Report No. 33-13 Bldg. Com. approving account T. T. Clyde for brushing and grading grounds. 165 10/23/13 Report No. 38-13 Bldg. Com. Recommending payment of accounts of Chapman & Turner and E. N. Moyer Co. for work done on the above school. 197 1/15/14 Request from Miss Lusted for use of room in Highlands for kindergarten purposes. 866 1?/10/16 Report # 40-1916 Com Bldgs & Grs. Re fitting up Highlands Temporary School # 3 as a residence. 886 1?/10/16 Report No. 53-1916 Com. Bldgs. & Grs. Calling fro tenders for removal and re-erection of Highlands T(?) School #3. 877 9/11/16 Report No. 55-1916. Com Bldgs. & Grs. Re conversion of Highlands Temporary School #3 into a dwelling house. 877 9/11/16 Report No. 56-1916 Com Bldgs. & Grs. Tender received and accepted re moving Highlands Temporary Sch. #3. 886 7/12/16 Report No. 62-1916, Com Bldgs & Grs. Tenders received re lighting above school 903 21/12/16 Report No. 68-1916 Com. Bldgs. & Grs. Re charging Janitor rental fee for Highlands Sch. Temporary #3 which was converted into a residence. Page 4. 19/9/12 Report No. 57-12 recommending purchase of site and erecting school. Page 7 26/9/12 Tenders for erection received and opened Page 10 Report No. 25-12 Bldg. Comr. . recommending that contract for above be given to Geo. Watson Page 55 6/2/13 Sch. Mgt. Com. Report #4-13.(3) Secretary to have telephone placed in above school 104 6/5/13 Request of Bldg. Comr. and City Engineer re diversion of water main at above school granted. 112. 6/19/13 Report #27-13 Bldg. Com. recommending that acct. T. R. Clyde for alterations and repairs approved
|
|
HIGHLANDS SCHOOL |
|
3615 18/5/22 Report #29-1922 of Com. Bldgs. & Grs. Re use of Highlands School by Dept. of Education for Normal School purposes for year 1922-23, amended to refer clause (3) relating to appt'mt of Assistant Caretaker, to Com. On Bldgs. & Grounds. 3816 7/9/22 Request of Dept. of Education that they be allowed two additional rooms at Highlands School for normal School accommodation, referred to Com. on Sch. Mgmt. for report. 3924 7/9/22 Clause (4) of Report #29-1992 of Com. On Sch. Mgmt. Amended to read "That the Dept. be granted the use of one room in the temporary building in addition to the five rooms in the main building, and that it be suggested that the Assembly Hall may be used for class-room purposes", and adopted. 3838 7/9/22 Another room authorized opened upstairs in the temporary building at Highlands School to provide accommodation. 3905 19/1022 Academy of Medicine granted use of Assembly Hall of above school during Health week for lecture purposes. 3978 16/11/22 Report #74-1922 of Com. on Bldgs. & Grs. re rent to be charged Department of Education in connection with their use of a port i on of the Highlands School for Normal School purposes, adopted 4154 1/3/23. Report of Bldg. Com'mr. re extra help for Highland & School caretaker and other school caretakers, adopted 4264 3/5/23. Comm. from Mrs. S. G . .McCormack advising that she was vacating Janitors' residence at Highlands, referred to Bldg. Com. 4289 17/5/23 Comm. From Dept. of Education advising that they were leaving Dom. Science equipment at Highlands for present term, and requesting that they be allowed to leave furniture in place for a few weeks, granted 4292 17/5/23 Fence to be erected at Bennett School similar to that at Highlands School 4296 17/5/23 Notice of vacation of Janitor's residence at the Highlands School accepted to take effect on June 1st 1923 4297 17/5/23 Dept. of Education requested to leave the building and furniture at the Highlands School in condition in which they found it. 4373 29/6/23 A/c of $14.00 submitted by Dr. Leitch re accident to Jas. Fraser, Jr. at Highlands School authorized paid, but Board does not admit any liability 4389 5/5/23 New room to be opened for fall term. 4398 5/5/23 Domestic Science equipment in High Schools to be transferred to Highlands School and any other centre where required. 4460 2/8/23 Supt. To offer Dept. of Education sum not to exceed $500.00 for Normal School equipment in Highlands School 4510 6/9/23 Bldg. Com'mr to call for tender for having temp. bldg. from Highlands to Cromdale site, and bldg. Of basement to same. Matter of lavatory accumulation referred to Bldg. Com'mr & Sch. Engineer will ????. 4529 20/9/23 Women assistant to be provided for caretaker at Highlands School for month of October only. 4545 4/10/23 A room to be closed at Highlands Jr. School, and Mr. K. Smith to be appt'd Male Assist. In Highlands Public School 4545 4/10/23 New room to be opened in Highlands Public School. 4569 18/10/23 Bldg. Com'mr. to invite tenders for moving temp. bldg. From Highlands to Cromdale site, & Chairman of Bldg. Com. & Bldg. Com'mr. Given power to award contract. 4576 18/10/23 Thirty loads of cinders at approximate cost of $90.00 to be provided for Highlands School grounds. 4593 1/11/23 Rept. Of Sp. Com. comprising Dr. Crang and Bldg. Com'mr u[on removal of Highlands Janitor's residence to the Cromdale site. J. McKinnon awarded contract for removal at $640.00 and T. Ingram awarded contract for excavating basement and brickwork at $1,725.00. 4625 15/11/23 Insurance on the Highlands bldg. To be cancelled as at Jan. 1st, 1924, and the City notified accordingly. 4631 30/11/23 Cheque of $33.00 submitted by Mr. John McKinnon re his contract for moving the Janitors' residence from the Highlands to the Cromdale site, to be returned to him. 4635 30/11/23. Mr. J. McKinnon signed a quit claim in connection with his contract for the removal of the Highlands temp. Bldg. to the Cromdale and board to call for new tenders for this work. 4637 30/11/23. Mr. T. Ingram awarded contract for' moving Highlands Janitors' Residence from Highlands to Cromdale at his tendered price of $1,450.00. 4839 20/3/24 Rept. #21-1924 of Bldg. Com. re final payment of $924.52 to Mr. T. Ingram re moving portable bldg. From Highlands to Cromdale site, adopted. 5747 22/12/25. Mr. W. J. Kelly appt'd. to Highlands Jr. High School as Acting-Principal at Jan. 1st , 1926. at salary he received previous to his resignation. 5807 4/2/26. Request of Highlands Com. League for use of physical training equipment not in use at Parkdale School. To be advised that same is used for school purposes at Parkdale School. 5854 11/3/26. Recommendation that Mr. W. J. Kelly be restored as Principal. not adopted. 5880 18/3/26. Secy. to notify Mr. Kelly that he can draw on the Milk Fund to provide for the indigent cases at his School. 5938 6/5/26. Discussion re Highlands School grounds. 6026 15/7/26 Com. From League re grounds. To be notified that the Board will allow them to dump earth 6026 15/7/215. on the south end of the playground should they consider grading the community playground. 6231 2/12/26 Supt. To write to Principal of Highlands School advising of complaint re skate sharpening business , thereby commercializing the schools. 6232 2/12/26 Mr. W. J. Kelly confirmed in position as Principal of Highlands Jr. High School, as and from Jan. 1st, 1927. 6284 23/12/26. Supt - reported that Mr. Kelly had written denying any connection with skate sharpening at school. Negotiations re skates only, had been made. 6312 20/1/27. Com. from Highlands Com. League re levelling portion of Grounds, referred to Bldg. Com. for rept. 6495 7/6/27. Contract for grading Highlands School grounds let for $298.00. 6543 14/727. Mr. A. E. Knight appt'd. Sp. Gr. VIII teacher between Highlands & H. A. Gray School. 6593 18/8/27- Miss Agnes Fuog appt'd. Sp. Gr. VIII teacher between Highlands & R. A. Gray School. 6640 20/10/27. Comm. From Mrs. J. Robbie, protesting against system followed at Highlands School in teaching first year pupils for half a day only. To be advised that this is a policy of the Board. 6773 18/1/28. Couch and two chairs to be purchased for Teachers' Rest room at Highlands School. 6953 25/6/28. A jumping board to be purchased for use at Highlands School. 7010 14/0/28. Mrs. C.E. Seller appt'd. Acting Lady Vice Principal at Highlands School ror one year from Sept. 1st, 1928. 7040 18/9/28. Comm. Submitting petition from residents of Highlands protesting against half-day system in Grade I, referred to Sch. Mgmt. Com. 7100 20/11/28 Recommendation that Board go on record as being in favor of doing away with the double shift system in primary grades as soon as circumstances will permit, laid on table for consideration with estimates. 7106 No date No entry 7187 19/2/29. Comm. from Highlands Com. League requesting Board to level the Highlands School grounds, referred to Bldg. Com. for rept. 7239 19/3/29. Sum not exceeding $175.00 to be expended by Board in grading the south end of the Highlands School Playground to the same level as the adjoining ground recently graded by the Highlands Com. League. 7253 19/3/29. Board goes on record as being in favor of doing away with the double shift system in the primary grades as soon as circumstances will permit. 7553 26/11/29 Mrs. C. E. Seller appt'd Acting vice-principal at Highlands School until June 30th, 1930, as from Oct. 1st. 1929. 7627 11/2/30 Mr. Davidson present as a delegate from the Highlands Com. League requesting that fence be erected at the school referred to Bldg. Com. for consideration with the estimates. 7697 24/3/30 St. Mary's Church granted use of Highlands School for a concert on April 26th, 1930. 7765 20/5/30 Chain fencing to be erected along the North side of the Highlands School grounds facing on Alberta Ave. at a cost of $1.40 per lin. ft. or less. 7927 25/9/30 Delegation present re Gr. I. Supt. to report. 7/l0/~0. Letter from Gr. I parent to be answered. 7959 7/10/30 Figures incorrect and present arrangement re Gr. I must continue. 8129 18/11/30 Matter of fencing remainder of playground to be brought up at time of estimates. *8598 Miss Annie Carmichael appointed Lady Vice Principal at Highlands School. *8600 *No dates for the last two items, both seemed to relate to the appointment of Miss. Carmichael 8598 8/9/31 Mr. K. Smith transferred to Parkdale 8600 Mr. G. Davies to Highlands. 9048 12/7/32 Delegation from Highlands re Grade IX. 9050 Supt. reported in this connection 9050 12/7/32. Grade IX to be retained at Highlands on basis of organization as at present in Calder School 9056 12/7/32 Clause 2b of #8-1932 of Mgmt. re transfer of IX from Highlands to Cromdale referred to Board. 9056 12/7/32. In view of previous decision of Board re retaining IX at Highlands, no action to be taken on above. 9063 15/7/32. Alteration in boundary between Highlands and Cromdale approved and other suggestions contained in Supt's. statement of July 15th to remain in abeyance as recommended by the Superintendent. 9144 20/9/32. Asst. Supt. Authorized to equalize the students between the distribution of Grade VII Highlands and Cromdale if possible. 9144 20/9/32. Supt. reported that there are only six public school pupils from Beverly in the Highlands School. 9173 25/10/32. Mr. J. Humphreys, Highlands United Church, granted use of Highlands School at 25c per evening. 9630 6/3/34 Mrs. & Mrs. Gilker heard re accident to daughter, Esme, a student at Highlands School, and matter referred to Finance Committee for further information and report. 9642 20/3/34. Finance committee satisfied no liability attached to Board, and no action to be taken in connection with accident to Esme Gilker. 9698 25/4/34 $100.00 provided for improvement s to Highlands grounds. 9726 22/5/34 Supt. to investigate and report upon the suitability of establishing, at Oliver, Highlands, or any other schools where facilities may be available, Manual Arts and Domestic Science centres similar to that now in operation a t King Edward School. 9727 (no entry) 10051 26/2/35 Beverly Boys' Club delegation heard re Boxing and Wrestling; and matter of rental of Highlands school referred to Prop. Comm. with power to act. 10052 (no entry) 10849 24/8/37 Mr. J. MacDiarmid allocated as Yale V. P. at Highlands Sch. 10907 7/12/37. After considering request of Mr. Parry, Prop. Comm. unable to recommend that Hlds. Sch. be rented to them for children's religious meetings. 10908 (no entry) 11280 28/2/39. Male V. P.'s in following Elem. Schs. with Int. unit, granted addl. salary of $100 per annum while holding that position, retroactive from Jan. 1/38: Eastwood; H A. Gray; Highlands, Parkdale; Westmount. 11537 23/4/40. Request of Highlands & Dist. Comm. League that one block in front of the Highlands School be gravelled, referred to Prop. Com. 11561 28/5/40. The petitioners for gravelling the streets in front of the Highlands and Norwood Schs. advised that the Bd. is unable to undertake any expenditure for this purpose this year. 11850 26/8/41. Letter of condolence to he sent to next or kin of Miss Jean Stevens, who until her death was a member of the Highlands School staff expressing the sympathy of the Board in their bereavement. 11871 14/10/41. Letter of Messrs. Grant & Stewart, Barristers advising the Board of a possible claim for injuries sustained by Donald Jackson at Highlands School, referred to Finance Committee for consideration. 12010 12/5/42. Request granted to use above for Air Raid organization meeting, May 21/42 free. 12506 6/6/44. Letter of Caretakers' Assn. re additional caretaking at Highlands & Parkdale Schools referred to Prop. Comm. to consider. 12516 20/6/44. Request of Highlands Com. Lg. for use of Highlands School for dance for Graduating Class granted. 12520 20/6/44. As additional rooms are expected to be in operation at the Highlands and Parkdale School in the fall additional Caretakers to be provided. 12586 17/10/44 ~n additional room is to be constructed in basement of Highlands School at an approx. cost of $900. 12693 24/4/45 J. Pollett appted. acting principal of Highlands Sch. until close of term in July 1945, salary to be minimum of the schedule for this school after the sick pay allnce. due Mr. Kelly is exhausted. 12693 24/4/45 Miss Marjorie MacKenzie of Highland Int. staff transferred temporarily to Eastwood High in absence of Mr. H. C. Clark. 12694 24/4/45. Mr. A. Davison transferred from Eastwood High staff to Highlands Int. 12694 24/4/45 T. W. Williams appted. Principal of Highlands School effective when schools reopen in Sept., 1945. 12834 11/12/45 Claim of Dr. T.R. Meehan for payment hospital & doctor bills arising from accident to son at Highlands Sch. May 22/45, referred to Bd's. Insur. Co. for consideration. 13038 15/8/46 Grade 1 classes at Highlands to be on double shift basis Sept. 3/46 & additional rooms to be fitted up in basement. 13072 8/10/46 Bd's. reservation of block 5, Highlands, directly west of Highlands School, to be changed for block 15, Highlands, immediately east of the school. 13214 13/5/47 Architect authorized to proceed with work on lunchroom for men teachers at Highlands School, at an estimated cost of $75.00. 13243 10/6/47 Gas-burning installations authorized at price quoted, $1,078.60. 13249 10/6/47 City Recreation Commission granted permission to use 24 Indian Clubs, from Highlands School, for summer gym. classes. Commission to be responsible for their safe return prior to Sept. 13485 23/3/48 Architect to submit recommendations for methods of improving ventilation & appearance of basement classroom at Highlands School. 13498 13/4/48 Architect's report, Apr. 13/48, re improving ventilation of basement classroom at Highlands School rec'd, & recommendations to be carried out. 13848 29/3/49 Mr. G. Duckworth appointed Asst. Principal of Highlands school, effective Sept./49 114056 11/10/49 Spec. Com. (Tr. Rae & Arch. - Supt. of Plant) appointed with power to act to arrange for protection of windows of Highlands Community League Hall adjacent to Highlands School Playgrounds. 14101 22/11/4 Tenders to be called for the supply & erection of 5' steel fence, with 10' intermediate section 48' long directly behind the football goal, on the S. boundary of the Highlands School Playgrounds. 14140 21/12/49 J. B. Ashdown Hardware Co. awarded contract for $813.13, covering supply & installation of Frost Chain Link Fence on south boundary or Highlands School Grounds. HIGHLANDS SCHOOL 14264 2/5/50 Sec. authorized to arrange with Principal of Highlands School for payment of cost of replacing 17 panes of glass broken in the Highlands Community Hall during school football games in the Fall of 1949; total cost $12.75. 14283 23/5/50 Petition for paving 61st. at Highlands School signed on behalf of Board. 14296 23/5/50 Spec. Com. (Chairman of Prop. Com. & Bd. Officials appointed, to disc us with City Commissioners & reps. of Highlands Com. possibility of Bd. securing City-owned property between S. boundary of Highlands School Playground & League Com. Hall. |
|
HIGHLANDS SCHOOL SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES INVOLVEMENT WITH CHURCHES, YOUTH GROUPS & THE COMMUNITY LEAGUE |
|
1639 6/5/19 Inspection of Cadet Corp report. 1764 11-9-19 Use of two rooms weekly permitted to Boys Club of Highlands Methodist Church. 1946 15/1/20. Letter from Caretaker rptg. breakage of a window in basement by Trail Runners Boys' Club. 1947 15/1/20. Letr. from F.G. Sutherland requesting financial assistance for Highlands Hockey Skating Rink. $25.00 was appropriated. 2474 18/11/20. Trail Rangers Club granted use of Highlands School for weekly meetings on same conditions as last year. 2719 2/3/21 Highlands Community League given Permission to use Highlands School for league meetings. 3089 25/7/21. Request of Highlands & Dist. Community League for use of 3123 4/8/:21. Mr. C. G. Sheldon present as delegate from the Highlands & District Community League requesting that Grade X be established in Highlands School. Referred to Com. on School Management. 3137 18/8/21. Request of League for School to be fitted up with gymnasium equipment, held over pending a report from the Supt of Schools and Bldg. Com'mr Schools and Bldg. Com'mr. 3267 17/11/21. Mr. A. .U. G. Bury and Mr. Slate present from Highlands Com. 15/8/50 Sec. Authorized to again contact Highlands Com. Lge. Prop. To obtain release of portion of their grounds immediately adjoining Highlands School Playgrounds to take up with City Commissions possibility of purchasing this land as extension to Highlands School Playgrounds 6026 15/7/26 Com. From League re grounds. To be notified that the Board will allow them to dump earth 6026 15/7/215. on the south end of the playground should they consider grading the community playground. 6312 20/1/27. Com. from Highlands Com. League re levelling portion of Grounds, referred to Bldg. Com. for rept. 7187 19/2/29. Comm. from Highlands Com. League requesting Board to level the Highlands School grounds, referred to Bldg. Com. for rept. 7697 24/3/30 St. Mary's Church granted use of Highlands School for a concert on April 26th, 1930. 9173 25/10/32. Mr. J. Humphreys, Highlands United Church, granted use of Highlands School at 25c per evening. 10051 26/2/35 Beverly Boys' Club delegation heard re Boxing and Wrestling; and matter of rental of Highlands school referred to Prop. Comm. with power to act. 11537 23/4/40. Request of Highlands & Dist. Comm. League that one block in front of the Highlands School be gravelled, referred to Prop. Com. 11561 28/5/40. The petitioners for gravelling the streets in front of the Highlands and Norwood Schs. advised that the Bd. is unable to undertake any expenditure for this purpose this year. 12516 20/6/44. Request of Highlands Com. Lg. for use of Highlands School for dance for Graduating Class granted. 114056 11/10/49 Spec. Com. (Tr. Rae & Arch. - Supt. of Plant) appointed with power to act to arrange for protection of windows of Highlands Community League Hall adjacent to Highlands School Playgrounds. 14264 2/5/50 Sec. authorized to arrange with Principal of Highlands School for payment of cost of replacing 17 panes of glass broken in the Highlands Community Hall during school football games in the Fall of 1949; total cost $12.75. 14296 23/5/50 Spec. Com. (Chairman of Prop. Com. & Bd. Officials appointed, to disc us with City Commissioners & reps. of Highlands Com. possibility of Bd. securing City-owned property between S. boundary of Highlands School Playground & League Com. Hall. HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY LEAGUE 15/8/50 Sec. Authorized to again contact Highlands Com. Lge. Prop. To obtain release of portion of their grounds immediately adjoining Highlands School Playgrounds to take up with City Commissions possibility of purchasing this land as extension to Highlands School Playgrounds 4842 20/3/24 Cinders to be supplied for playground 5564 20/8/25 Norwood Foundry awarded contract for supply of grates at Highlands School at their price of $195.00, scrap iron to be allowed at rate of $12.00 per ton. 5650 15/10/25. Resignation of Mr. W. J. Kelly as principal of Highlands School accepted to take effect . Nov. 15th. Position to be advertised and apptmt. referred to Sch. Mgmt. Com. 5683 12/11/25. Comm. from Mr. W.J. Kelly submitting application for reinstatement to teaching staff and if possible to his former position as Principal of Highlands School, referred to Sch. Mgmt. Com. for report. 5717 3/12/25. Recommendation that Mr. W.J. Kelly be re installed to the Highlands Jr. High School as Acting-Principal from Jan to June at his former salary, laid on table.
|
|
HIGHLANDS JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL |
|
9009 21/6/32. Mr. C. Thomas continued on staff provisionally. 9032 5/7/32. Clause (2 b) of Mgmt. Rept. laid on table (re. transfer of Highlands IX to Cromdale) and Supt. to report re vacant building owned by City and cost involved in putting this into suitable condition. 9036 (PART OF 9032?)
|
| HIGHLANDS SCHOOL CARETAKER'S RESIDENCE |
|
4635 30/11/23. Mr. McKinnon signed a quit claim re the moving of the temp. bldg. from Highlands to Cromdale site, and Board to call for new tenders for this work. 4637 30/11/23. Mr. T. Ingram awarded contract for moving Janitors' Residence from Highlands to Cromdale at his tendered price of $1,450
|
|
HIGHLANDS SCHOOL SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES SKATE SHARPENING IN THE SCHOOL |
| 6231 2/12/26 Supt. To write to Principal of Highlands School advising of complaint re skate sharpening business , thereby commercializing the schools.
6284 23/12/26. Supt - reported that Mr. Kelly had written denying any connection with skate sharpening at school. Negotiations re skates only, had been made. |
|
HIGHLANDS SCHOOL CARETAKER'S, THEIR RESIDENCE ETC. |
|
1837-38 /11/19 Mr. McCormack protesting against his rent being raised to $20.00 and the fact that there are no storm sashes on the building. Matter referred to Bldg. Com'mr investigate the matter to report to Comm. On Sch. Mgt. 4593 1/11/:23. Rept. Of Dr. Crang and Bldg. Com'mr. upon the removal of the Highlands Janitors' Residence to the Cromdale site. J. McKinnon awarded contract for removal at $640. 00 and T. Ingram awarded contract for excavating basement & brick work at $1725.00. 4631 30/11/23. Cheque of $33.00 submitted by Mr. John McKinnon re his contract for moving the Janitors' residence from Highlands to the Cromdale site. to be returned to him. 1263 18/4/18 Request from S. G. McCormack. Caretaker of the Highlands School, for Plumbing installation at the Highlands school residence, referred to Com. on Bldgs. & Grs. for consideration and report. 1269 18/4/18 Report #25-1918, Com. on Bldgs. & Grs. re modernizing caretaker's residence of the Highlands school. 1298 16/5/18. Report #32-1916. Com. on Bldgs. & Grs. re tenders for plumbing installation at Highlands School adopted. 1308 6/20/18. Report #36-1918 Com. On Bldgs. & Grs. Re settlement of account plumbing in Highlands Schools caretaker's residence be paid $295.00 adopted. 3579 4/5/22. Mr. McNally and Mr. McCormack to appear before next mtg. of Com. on Bldgs. & Grs re complaints in connection with caretaking at Highlands School.
|
|
THE TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS OF THE CUSTODIAL STAFF 1946 . 15/1/20. Letter from Caretaker rptg. breakage of a window in basement by Trail Runners Boys' Club. 21/7/21 Comm. suggesting that in the $40.00 per month paid to caretaker for night services in connection with Normal School, a few special meetings held not oftener than once a month be included. To be advised that this is acceptable. 2394 16/9/20. Mr. S.G. McCormack to be paid salary on basis of a 17 roomed school from Aug. l0th , 1920. 3177 15/9/21 Report #52-1921 of com. on Bldgs. & Grs. recommending that arrangements for caretaking of Cottage School at Highlands used by Normal School, be referred to the Bldg. Com'mr. with power to act. 1837-38 /11/19 Mr. McCormack protesting against his rent being raised to $20.00 and the fact that there are no storm sashes on the building. Matter referred to Bldg. Com'mr investigate the matter to report to Comm. On Sch. Mgt. 4593 1/11/:23. Rept. Of Dr. Crang and Bldg. Com'mr. upon the removal of the Highlands Janitors' Residence to the Cromdale site. J. McKinnon awarded contract for removal at $640. 00 and T. Ingram awarded contract for excavating basement & brick work at $1725.00. 4631 30/11/23. Cheque of $33.00 submitted by Mr. John McKinnon re his contract for moving the Janitors' residence from Highlands to the Cromdale site. to be returned to him. 1263 18/4/18 Request from S. G. McCormack. Caretaker of the Highlands School, for Plumbing installation at the Highlands school residence, referred to Com. on Bldgs. & Grs. for consideration and report. 1269 18/4/18 Report #25-1918, Com. on Bldgs. & Grs. re modernizing caretaker's residence of the Highlands school. 1308 6/20/18. Report #36-1918 Com. On Bldgs. & Grs. Re settlement of account plumbing in Highlands Schools caretaker's residence be paid $295.00 adopted. 3579 4/5/22. Mr. McNally and Mr. McCormack to appear before next mtg. of Com. on Bldgs. & Grs re complaints in connection with caretaking at Highlands School. 3615 18/5/22 Report #29-1922 of Com. Bldgs. & Grs. Re use of Highlands School by Dept. of Education for Normal School purposes for year 1922-23, amended to refer clause (3) relating to appt'mt of Assistant Caretaker, to Com. On Bldgs. & Grounds. 4154 1/3/23. Report of Bldg. Com'mr. re extra help for Highland & School caretaker and other school caretakers, adopted 4264 3/5/23. Comm. from Mrs. S. G . .McCormack advising that she was vacating Janitors' residence at Highlands, referred to Bldg. Com. 4296 17/5/23 Notice of vacation of Janitor's residence at the Highlands School accepted to take effect on June 1st 1923 4529 20/9/23 Women assistant to be provided for caretaker at Highlands School for month of October only. 4593 1/11/23 Rept. Of Sp. Com. comprising Dr. Crang and Bldg. Com'mr on removal of Highlands Janitor's residence to the Cromdale site. J. McKinnon awarded contract for removal at $640.00 and T. Ingram awarded contract for excavating basement and brickwork at $1,725.00. 4631 30/11/23 Cheque of $33.00 submitted by Mr. John McKinnon re his contract for moving the Janitors' residence from the Highlands to the Cromdale site, to be returned to him. 4637 30/11/23. Mr. T. Ingram awarded contract for' moving Highlands Janitors' Residence from Highlands to Cromdale at his tendered price of $1,450.00.
|
|
THINGS YOU HAVE ALWAYS WANTED TO KNOW BRUSH REMOVAL 143 Report No. 33-13 Bldg. Com. approving account T. T. Clyde for brushing and grading grounds. ASH ELEVATOR 2329 15/7/20 Bldg. Com'mr. instructed to repair ash elevator at Highlands School. 2485 10/11/20. Bldg. Com'mr. to report on cost of an outside incline to basement in lieu of an ash elevator. 2505 18/11/80. Work in connection with making an outside incline to basement of Highlands School in order that ashes may be wheeled out, authorized at cost of $400. SHOWER AND BATHS 3268 17/11/21. Request for shower baths to be installed referred to Bldg. Com'mr. re cost. 3337 15/12/21. Report of Bldg. Com'mr re cost of installing shower baths at Highlands School, laid upon the table 3365 12/1/22 Matter of installing shower baths at Highlands School laid upon table. 3394 19/1/22. It was agreed that a report be submitted as to why shower baths are not being used in schools where they are installed. 3557 20/4/22. Moved that shower baths be not installed at Highlands School. adopted. CINDERS FOR THE PLAYGROUND 4576 18/10/23 Thirty loads of cinders at approximate cost of $90.00 to be provided for Highlands School grounds. 4842 20/3/24 Cinders to be supplied for playground
|
|
With thanks to Ken LeLacheur and Pat Dawson, both former Principals Opening Remarks from Ken LeLacheur 
Welcome Ladies and Gentlemen. My name is Ken LeLacheur, and it is my distinct privilege to host this evening’s event. Thank you so much for coming. I’m sure that there is a lot to talk about – you may be seeing people that you haven’t been in touch with for a long time. There will be time over dinner, and lots of time following dinner to catch up. We have formal items on the agenda, but before we begin, we do have a few housekeeping items. Please make sure that you sign the guest list at the front Following these opening remarks, dinner will be served. If you have let us known previously about your special dietary needs, you can check with the wait staff for your meal. Following dinner, we will enjoy dessert while hearing about Highlands School from three principals – Mr. Pat Dawson, Mr. Brad Burns and myself. Those of you who are able to make it through those speeches will be eligible for some fabulous door prizes. No really...  We were able to enjoy today's Open House at the school, and the dinner this evening because of the very hard work of a committed group of people. For the past year, the following committee members have been working towards today.
Rear l-r Ken LeLacheur, Jack Hollands, Betty Forfrylow, Gail Disler, Gerry Anderson, Grace Morrison,Brad Burns. I am going to read out the names of the committee, and ask that they stand to be recognized. Please hold your applause until all are standing. (I have been told that I should use the maiden names of some of our committee members so that you can see how that little brown haired girl turned out...) Gerry (Sass) Anderson Ladies and Gentlemen – the Highlands 100 Organizing Committee Before we enjoy our dinner, I will ask Ms. Joan Bensted to come up to the front to say grace. Thank you Joan DINNER Pat Dawson Not everyone on the organizing committee knew Pat Dawson, but when his name was suggested as a guest speaker, we all agreed that we wanted to hear his "take" on Highlands School. Other than being an educator, basketball official and all round good guy, Pat was the instigator of the last Highlands Reunion - in 1989 at the 75 year mark. Pat was the first person to do what has been called "a Pat Dawson triple." This accomplishment is to be a teacher, an assistant principal, and the principal at Highlands School. I can't tell you how proud I was 2010 when I could phone Pat to let him know that I was the second person to do a Pat Dawson triple. Ladies and Gentlemen, my friend and mentor, Pat Dawson. And thank you Pat Dawson - not just for that speech that gave us insight into the Mr. Botsford Years, but for all that you have done for Edmonton Public School students, staff and community members. We see here tonight many of the staff members that he worked with in his final run at Highlands School from 1986 - 1992. I was privileged to be there for four of those years. By my count, from the staff that Pat had at Highlands in those six years, at least a dozen went on to positions of senior leadership in the school district. Everywhere that Pat went, he positively impacted people – whether it was in the church, on the basketball floor, at the Special Ed. Socials or Friday afternoons at the Firefighter’s Social Club. Just as we chose Pat to share his memories of Highlands School, I have been allowed to have some time to share. I have gathered information from a number of sources. History – special thanks to John Tidridge, Lawrence Herzog and Don Hepburn, the one thing that is constant at Highlands is change. In the early 1900's the Highlands area was not part of the city of Edmonton. River lots 32 and 34 were divided up and sold by developers. They convinced the city to run the streetcar out to the Highlands area.(60 – 61 St.) There wasn't really much of a school for students at that time. Highlands School District was taken into the Edmonton School District in 1912 with the promise that a new school would be built. Before the brick building that we know as Highlands today, there were actually three different temporary schools. One to the north of the present school, and the other two were on the opposite side of 62 Street. Each of the first three schools were "re-purposed". In 1933, School # 1 (the cottage school) was moved by steam tractor to 118 Avenue and 50 street where it became Odynski's general store. School # 2 was moved to the site of Cromdale School in 1924, and #3 was turned into a private residence. The Highlands School that we know now was described by Lawrence Herzog as: "Collegiate gothic style, with crenellated parapets, a commanding central tower, oriel window over the main entry and Tudor arches over many of the windows and doors. The structure is of steel and concrete clad with brick and stone." It took several years for the school to be built on Block 14, lots 1 – 14 of the Highlands area. – classes started on the first floor at Easter in 1916, and it wasn't until about 1920 that five of the rooms on the top floor were completed. At this time, electricity was brought into the building. As well, from 1920 – 1923, Highlands also hosted a "Normal School". I want you to take a moment, and think about how the school looked and was organized and operated a hundred years ago. Think of the changes! You have some idea from the Highlands School Highlights on your tables. Special thanks to Doreen and the committee members that put all that together. I want to fill in some more of the blanks and walk you through the changes seen by Highlands School over the past 100 years (or so) To begin. The school wasn't on 62 Street. Highlands School was on Grace Street, just south of Alberta Avenue, north of Bailey Avenue. Students would get to the school by walking on the dirt roads – that were mostly mud in the spring and fall, and then have to use the boot scraper. Then students would walk up the steps – there were no elevators or ramps) - to go in their separate Boys and Girls entrances. When the students got into the school (no hobnails or clickers allowed!) they would go to their classrooms and hang their coats on hooks in the cloakroom. There were no lockers. Students would sit in their desks that were bolted to the floor in rows. Inside the flip top of the desk would be the writing utensils. There was a hole in the top of the desk for your ink bottle. You dipped your straight pen into the ink to practice your cursive writing. The school was very comfortable with the steady (if somewhat smelly) heat of the coal fired boilers. When electricity was finally put in, there were electric lights! On the wall was a large piece of slate. This was the true "blackboard." Green boards came later, followed by white boards. Teachers always seem to have something to write on. Until the city could connect the water and sewer to the school in 1920, "Outbuildings" were the only source of relief. There were books in the school, but not many. There were far more students, and sharing books was the way things were done a hundred years ago. At this time, many students left their formal schooling by age 14 – this was the era of the JUNIOR high school. If you could get as far as grade nine or ten, you could consider yourself educated. I am not sure if there is any cause and effect here, but by 14, most boys are getting to be man-sized and want to be treated like a man. Discipline in the schools was enforced by The Strap. Perhaps many left school because they didn’t like being hit. We do a far better job in our schools now, and don’t hit kids. And Now – to the changes! And my how things have changed. 1940 – request from Highlands Community League that one block in front of the school be graveled. The city replied that there was no money (Canada was at war then) The school was "wired for wireless" connectivity, and many students now bring their own devices – smart phones, tablets and laptops. Highlands School . It has gone by several different names - Highlands School. Highlands Elementary and Junior High School. Highlands Public School. Highlands Elementary and Intermediate School. Highlands Junior High School. Regardless of the name over the door -  For over 100 years, students in Northeast Edmonton have been offered a great education by the staffs at Highlands Schools. Highlands School has a strong history of academic, athletic and community achievements. In 2014, the Highlands School Building is not only celebrating its 100 th year, but the school is adding to its offerings by becoming an Arts Core school. I now ask Principal Brad Burns to join us and tell us about the current school and its direction for the next 100 years.
Thank you Brad. Every time I talk with this man, or hear him speak, I am more impressed. I believe that Highlands is in very good hands, and regardless of what happens to the school and area in the coming month, the Highlands Spirit will live on. Sponsors and Door Prize donations Okay – you have made it through the hard part. Now for some more fun. With true community spirit, a number of people and organizations have helped us out with our celebrations today. We would like to recognize the following supporters Tim Hortons – coffee and Tim bits Now, before we end the night, we have a few things to give away. Coliseum Pizza – gift card I would like to thank everyone for helping make the Highlands School 100 year celebration one to remember. Please feel free to continue your conversations and have safe travels home. Thank You. Ken LeLacheur Pat Dawson's speech at the 100th Anniversary of the school... May 2014.
 Thank you to the committee for organizing this event and a special thank you to Ken Lelacheur and Grace for keeping me informed about arrangements. Thank you, also, for the honour of being able to share with you a small bit of what makes Highlands School a special place for many of us.
My presentation is primarily a tribute to a gentleman that created the foundation for making Highlands School a lasting legacy in north-east Edmonton during the 50’s and 60’s. He was an imposing figure. About 6' 1", straight in stature, steel blue eyes and always wearing his neatly pressed blue-gray suit. Always the white shirt, tie and buttoned suit jacket. In his younger days he was an outstanding athlete and a tennis champion in Alberta. In his military career during WW II he was a high ranking officer responsible for all flights west of London for the bombing raids on Nazi held territory. He was always Mr. Botsford. On the golf course, where he excelled, none of us would call him, Gordon. When I was appointed Assistant Principal at Highlands in 1968, even after he said to me, "For God's sake man, I am Gordon, not mister!" it was still difficult to call him Gordon. Everything was formal but very much to the point. As staff members we shared the common introduction to Highlands School, Botsford style. "Here is your room key. You will be in Room 5." That was it. That was your orientation to teaching at Highlands. BUT, Gordon was a leader. Gordon influenced every student, teacher and parent with a concern and belief in learning, a rapport he established through interest in every person he touched and actions that validated those beliefs and relationships. His mode of operation and delegation allowed staff, students and parents to bring their talents, their beliefs and their actions to the table and as a result a proud community school evolved. We all felt proud to be part of Highlands School. Over the years there was something mystical, magical and spiritual that took place when you entered Highlands School and became part of that school community. 
My own Highlands journey started in 1963. Having graduated in Pharmacy and with two years as a retail Pharmacist behind me there was just not the enjoyment, reward and satisfaction forthcoming that should be experienced in a career. Fortunately, my wife, Liz, supported my return to University. I did work as a relief Pharmacist while back at University to help the family budget. By sheer coincidence on that summer day in 1963, I was relieving at a drug store on a Sunday afternoon when the clerk in the store said her brother was coming to pick her up to take her to a family gathering. Her chauffer was none other than Gordon Botsford. When I told him I was enrolled in Education at the U of A and would be graduating after summer school, he stated that there was a teaching position waiting for me at Highlands School. The Edmonton Public personnel people had firmly told me there would be no way I would just walk into a position. About two days later I was called by personnel to report to Highlands School the next day. Mr. Gordon Botsford I had been introduced to the Botsford influence!!!
Gordon Botsford lived in the Highlands area, the parents knew him and the students knew him. He supported the community and we were introduced to family names like McPhail, Martell, Haas, Wheeler, Heard, Agnew, Audley, Paris, MacSporran, Milne, Cheriton, King, Gafuik, Kuhnke and many, many, many others. All of those many names appeared in later years as professionals, politicians, community builders, athletes, artists, musicians and activists for a better society. There was a bonding between Gordon Botsford, the community and the school. We were encouraged to know "our" families. Just changing gears, from an administrative point of view, you might remember a few things from those days:
There are some Botsford characteristics that many of you from that era might remember. 1. Gordon had a nervous shrug in his shoulders when a staff meeting went too long or you were boring him or you knew he had heard enough or just leave and get on your way or he was just somewhere where he did not want to be. 2. Gordon was known as the Gray Ghost. He was the subject of a poem, The Gray Ghost, written by a student for the school paper. The poem did a superb job of describing Gordon and the last line stated, "You do not see him but you know he is there." While Gordon assembled a great staff each year, we were fortunate in the late 80's and early 90's to assemble a staff that was just as talented, committed and effective so it is also my honour to say we had the best teaching staff, the best assistant principal, the best office staff, the best district administrators, including George Traynor and Mike Strembitsky who are here this evening, and the best school system anyone could ask for during my last six years of teaching. To the students, staff and parents who worked with us for my 12 years at Highlands School I say thank you. You did give me the reward, satisfaction and enjoyment that I was looking for in my working life. Last April Liz gave the keynote address at a Nursing Education Conference at Columbia University in New York City. Liz mentioned her great aunt’s concern about the sensitive spirit that is needed, not only in nursing but, in teaching and serving humanity. That jogged my memory about a statement Gordon made several times and that statement, I would say, was the foundation of his career and service in Education. So, with the Gray Ghost looking over my shoulder, and in the vein of that sensitive spirit, I close by giving you Gordon Botsford’s greatest legacy to us as teachers. It is wrapped up in a one sentence directive to all who teach and serve children. I quote: Remember, as a teacher, in your hands you hold the most fragile, precious, and irreplaceable commodity on this earth, someone else’s child. Thank you, Gordon Botsford. |
|
ONE CITY SCHOOL KEEPS ITS FEES LOW Hard work, innovation, minimize extra payments at Highlands Alexandra Zabjek Edmonton Journal December 19, 2015
When Burns became principal at the northeast Edmonton junior high a few years ago, fees were being collected sporadically or not at all. Instead of pressuring some students to pay up for an art class or a graduation ceremony, Burns has tried his best to eliminate the payments for everyone. "It's not really fair to say we charge no fees - kids pay for their bus passes and there are small fees for being on teams," Burns said on Friday. "But as far as curriculum - art fees, construction fees, home economics fees, textbook rental, technology - those fees that a lot of other schools charge, we don't charge any." The department of education this week released data showing that parents across Alberta typically pay hundreds of dollars for everything from lunchtime supervision to text-book rentals to field trips. Parents with several school-aged children may spend more than a thousand dollars on fees in September. PHOTO BY JOHN LUCAS /Edmonton Journal Education Minister David Eggen has said he's considering government support to reduce "essential school" fees and he will ask school boards to brainstorm on how to reduce others. textbooks than it is to actually buy textbooks." At the Highlands school, Burns has brainstormed, networked, collaborated and literally driven around the city to minimize fees as much as possible. He visits grocery stores and bakeries around the city on Tuesday nights to collect day-old bread and produce for the school's breakfast and lunch programs, which serve more than 60 per cent of the .school's 198 students. The program is open to everyone. The meals also happen because of partnerships with Metis Child and Family Services, the United Way's All in for Youth Initiative, and the children's fund from the radio station, the Bear, Burns said. If parents can afford it, they're asked to send their children with lunch or contribute food or money to the program. Another big cost-cutting move at the school has been the transition to electronic textbooks whenever possible. Many schools charge $75 for textbook rentals, with the money going to cover the books, licensing fees and computer programs. "We just found it costs less to do than to buy the paper copy and then you don't have any damage, so you don't need to charge the rental fee," Burns said. "We put a lot of our effort and energy into making sure that kids have access to technology in the school, so that brings down our cost of textbooks, so we can do all of our textbooks online. It's a far less cost to have a site licence for textbooks than it is to actually buy textbooks." Students may pay a small school fee for field trips but the parent council also fund raises for such activities, or for events such as a September barbecue. "Brad has done an amazing job at taking his budget and strategically applying it to what is the greatest benefit for the students," said Tracy Potter-MacSwain, who chairs the school's parent council. "We're fund raising for supplemental experiences, we're not providing the basics ... there's no lack there, the kids are having great experiences, they're doing a lot of things, and they have access to technology and things are up to date." Potter- MacSwain said eliminating many school fees is a "great reduction in stress," for both wealthy families and those that are financially struggling. Burns" who has previously worked at Victoria School for the Arts and Old Scona High School, said there are families that struggle with fees at every school. "I get where fees come in – I don't fault anyone for charging them, Some programs and offerings cost a lot of money and it will often fall outside the realm of what a school can pay for, to offer that level of programming," he said. "But my personal philosophy is that a fee should never prevent someone from taking a course. I'd never want a student to not choose art because they can't afford a $25 art fee, or not take construction, or foods, ... I'd rather make it completely accessible to all students, and then figure it out." azabjek@edmontonjournal.com twitter.com/a..zabjek
|
In a province where parents paid $250 million in school fees this fall, Brad Burns has achieved a small coup: almost no fees for students at Highlands School for the past two years.
|
|
 |
|
"Highlands school demolition makes way for modernization A swimming pool, vending machines, a hockey rink, an art studio, robots and more Wi-Fi are among students' wishes for a modernized and expanded Highlands school when becomes a consolidated elementary-junior high in 2021. A swimming pool, vending machines, a hockey rink, an art studio, robots and more Wi-Fi are among students’ wishes for a modernized and expanded Highlands school when it becomes a consolidated elementary-junior high in 2021 Although kids may not get all those features, they were happy to chant “break it, break it” as a backhoe began demolishing a passageway Wednesday between the original 1914 gothic school building and a 1954 addition “This is a wonderful time for the Highlands community,” Alberta Education Minister Adriana LaGrange said Wednesday as students from Mount Royal and Montrose schools and Highlands junior high gathered in the field to see construction on a revamped K-9 school begin. “Change is in the air. ”Faced with declining numbers of students in mature areas and three aging school buildings in Highlands and Montrose neighbourhoods, the Edmonton public school board decided in 2017 to consolidate roughly 800 students from the three schools into a modernized Highlands building. At first the community was a little reluctant. We become really attached to our community schools,” said Trisha Estabrooks, school board chairwoman and the trustee for the ward where the schools are located School to have arts program, full-day kindergarten In response to public feedback, the 1914 building facing 62 Street will stay put. In the $23.8-million project, crews will first demolish a 1954 annex to the school, then build a two-storey addition, including a new gymnasium. Lorne Parker, the division’s assistant superintendent of infrastructure, said Wednesday the new structure should be done by fall 2020, at which point, junior high students will move into the new building while workers modernize the century-old original structure It’s a piece of Edmonton’s history and its important to preserve our history,” Estabrooks said. When students move to Highlands in fall 2021, the school division will go back to the neighbourhoods to discuss the fate of the Montrose and Mount Royal buildings, Parker said.
Arts core programming now at Mount Royal and Highlands will continue in the newly consolidated school, as will all-day kindergarten from Montrose, Estabrooks said. Students at all three schools had scrawled their hopes for the modernized school onto paper bricks, which have been layered onto a fence surrounding the construction project New schools coming in provincial budget Meanwhile, school divisions across the province have lengthy lists of needed new schools and modernization projects requiring provincial approval and funds. At the top of Edmonton public’s list is a new Meadows high school in the southeast. Edmonton Catholic needs a $31-million K-9 school for 950 students in the southwest suburb of Keswick LaGrange said Wednesday the public will learn on provincial budget day, Oct. 24, which school construction projects will be funded this year. She declined to say how many school construction projects will receive funding, or how much the United Conservative Party government plans to spend on school builds in the coming year. Decisions aren’t yet final, she said. “We will do our absolute best to address the greatest needs possible,” she said. “It’s a very big list. Government is using a tweaked existing matrix to determine the top priorities provincially, LaGrange said..” “I’ve really tried to ensure that we are building schools on merit where they are most needed.”
|
Once complete, the unique building will include more natural light, wide-open spaces, solar panels and more adaptable learning spaces for modern teaching approaches, Parker and Estabrooks said.
Article content
|
|
||||
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| Fence sign, 60 Street just north of 118 Avenue | The gymnasium is being demolished. Mid- October | The demolition continues... Mid-October | A giant awl, mounted on a truck...drilling? Middle of October 2019 Still October | Hard to see but there are neat piles of de-molished material awaiting further attention. Late October |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| Mid-November and much [most] of the debris has been removed. Some movement of the machinery... too far away to determine what is going on! | This square will show a single solitary fire hydrant...snow too deep January 23,2020. Unfortunately never got around to taking a pucture until September. | Mid January showed a dramatic changed, all kinds of constructons vehicles. On Jan-uary 23 cement was seen to be being poured. | Trucks of all descriptions noted coming and going... | The construction already stretches from six-tieth street to the school. |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| July 13, 2020: The mind was willing but the body was weak. I did not take any photos during the winter proper. New photos show considerable progress. | July 13, 2020. The building in the photo to the left is at the eastern end of the school yard. This photo shows construction in the area between the building on the left and the old school. | September 7, 2020 A complete circuit of pictures starting at 60 Street just south of 118 Avenue and clockwise back again. | ||
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
More next year...Well the Fall and Winter 2020... | |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Signs of progress late January 2021.... |  |
 |
 |
 |
APRIL 5, 2021 North and south fronts |  |
 |
 |
 |
SEPTEMBER 4, 2021 A trip all around. The portalbes have disappeared, landscaping added. It looks as though grass will be added in the bare areas. . |  |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| March 2022: Much has been accomplished and students have been in the school for some months now. Outside landscaping has been almost completed. Storage and waste bins remain at the east end of the school. Photographs will be taken in the spring when the bins are removed. | ||||
|
Care to comment? e-mail : |
|
|
|
John Tidridge
|
|
|