New Aq’amnik Education Centre rises from the ground

The St. Mary's Band school is now under construction.

The St. Mary's Band, a Ktunaxa Nation Community, is seeing construction begin on its new school—the project should be completed by the start of school in September 2012.

The 10,000-square-foot building is being supplied and constructed by ATCO Structures and Logistics. The new education centre will include a multi-purpose room, staff room, first-aid room, kitchen and several classrooms. A gym and additional classrooms can be added in the future.

"It was through (ATCO's) capacity that we were able to design a centre that met our needs within our budget," said Beck Pelkonen, director of community and economic development for the St. Mary's Band.

"This project is an important step for our community, and the new education centre will provide our students of all ages a healthy, safe and inspiring place to learn," added Chief Cheryl Casimer.

The new education centre is situated next to the historic St. Eugene Church.