B.C.’s premier, David Eby, announced the decision to demolish and reconstruct Tumbler Ridge Secondary School at a new location following the tragic mass shooting in February. The new school will be built promptly to address the community’s wishes for a fresh start. Since the incident claimed the lives of eight individuals, including students and staff, the local school district has been collaborating with the community to determine the best course of action.
Currently, around 160 students from Grades 7 to 12 are utilizing temporary portables at the local elementary school. To accommodate the students while plans for a permanent replacement progress, larger modular classrooms will be constructed in Tumbler Ridge in the upcoming weeks. These new classrooms will be larger than the existing trailers, with each unit capable of accommodating 25 to 30 students. By fall 2026, eight classroom units and five administrative units will be in place.
Nicole Noksana, Chair of the Tumbler Ridge Parent Advisory Council, expressed relief and approval of the decision, emphasizing the importance of modern facilities and dedicated spaces for mental health and practical learning areas in the new school. The Chair of School District 59, Chad Anderson, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the need for healing and moving forward from the traumatic events.
While the cost and timeline for the new school are yet to be determined, the federal government will assist in funding the project, showcasing strong support for the Tumbler Ridge community. The future of the old school site remains uncertain, with discussions ongoing about potential memorial or park options. The police investigation into the shooting is nearing its conclusion, as the community continues to grapple with the aftermath and seek closure.
