Students in Tumbler Ridge have temp classrooms on the way

Temporary classrooms and facilities are currently on their way to the community of Tumbler Ridge, with the first arrivals expected Monday February 16.

The temporary facilities (single wide trailers) are the first steps for the community to put Tumbler Ridge secondary students back into class.

“We know routine and community are important to many in the aftermath of a tragedy and we know change can cause uncertainty,” said Chad Anderson, Chair, Peace River South School Board. “We are continuing to use a compassionate, trauma-informed approach that includes providing updates to the school community, families and the public about a planned return to school in the coming days. As we prepare to restart classes, the safety and wellness of students, staff and the whole school community continue to guide everything we do.”

The bathroom trailers are expected to arrive first according to the release, with the classroom unit’s delivery planned between February 17-18. The set up is going to take several days with 14 units being assembled in total, including the setup of water and heat, and the furnishing of buildings for the returning staff and students.

There are many factors to their plan including the sudden shift in weather, so a date for the resumption of classes in Tumbler Ridge has not been confirmed yet.

“Double wide” school trailers are expected in the coming weeks for the students, offering a more permanent learning space with a little more room, also located at the elementary school site according to the release. These facilities that are being provided for the Tumbler Ridge Secondary students will serve the community until expert advice, community input and future plans can be made.

“We are working around the clock to ensure the school district has what they need to support students and their families,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure. “I am grateful for the effort and co-ordination from all the partners who’ve come together to make these temporary spaces happen, including Peace River South School District 59, staff from the ministries of Education and Child Care and Infrastructure, BC Wildfire Service, Fort Modular, ATCO Structures, CBRE and DBI Transport.”

Students and educators will receive support from counsellors during their transition into the new buildings, who will continue to be available at the new school site. Locals will also continue to have access to the Tumbler Ridge Community Centre for counselling and trauma supports.

“I want to thank, from the bottom of my heart, every person who has been supporting the community of Tumbler Ridge,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Education and Child Care. “Thank you to School District 59 and the Board of Education who have been working closely with the Ministry of Education and Child Care to ensure students, families, teachers and staff will have a safe transition back to school when they are ready. Thank you to the Safer Schools Together team for your expertise, ensuring a trauma-informed response has guided our actions.”

The Province and Peace River South School District 59 will be updating parents and educators while locals begin to re-establish a sense of safety.