Big changes could be in the future of Edmonton Catholic Schools students: The closure of a north-end junior high with low enrolment, and year-round schooling for a downtown elementary/junior high.
Catholic school officials recently revealed decisions from a public board meeting held Tuesday night, where it was decided St. Catherine Elementary/Junior High, located at 10915 — 110 St., would take on a year-round schooling pilot project in August 2010.
Over 74 per cent of parents voted in favour of a “single-track” model, in which summer holidays are shortened to five weeks. Students take two weeks off in October and an additional week off during spring break.
At the same meeting, a consultation process was approved for possible closure for St. Mark Junior High, located at 11625 — 135 St.
Enrolment at the school has declined 25 per cent over the past five years. Though the school has a capacity for 477 students, only 164 are currently enrolled — 111 in regular programs and 53 in special education programs.
Administration will begin working with parents for feedback. The board will revisit the issue in the spring.
