New School Updates
On June 26, 2023, after inflationary pressures caused delays in construction, the start of construction of the new school was announced.
Brief timeline for the new school:
Since Cree bilingual programming began at St. Frances in 2007 (in partnership with the Saskatoon Tribal Council), the school division has submitted renovation concept plans to the Ministry of Education.
- March 2019: After years of consultations and lobbying, the Government of Saskatchewan commits to planning funding for a new school.
- March 2020: The Government of Saskatchewan announces funding for a new St. Frances Cree bilingual School to be located on the site of the former Sion Middle School on 7th Street East.
- Fall 2021: Demolition of existing building on the Sion site and site preparation (complete)
- Spring 2022: Detailed design
- June 2023: approval of funding and start of construction is announced
- Fall 2025: expected school opening
Demolition of former Sion Middle School
Demolition is complete and the site at Grosvenor Ave. and 7th St E is ready
News
October 28, 2022: Affinity Credit Union funds STEAM lab for new St. Frances Cree Bilingual School
June 17, 2022: First Nations Bank of Canada funds Elder/cultural space for new St. Frances Cree Bilingual School
March 21, 2022: A Journey Worth Making (review of program from Saskatchewan Catholic School Boards Association)
November 18, 2021: Draft plans for new St. Frances Cree Bilingual School revealed
June 25, 2021: Saskatoon Nutana Rotary Club announces performing arts funding for new St. Frances Cree Bilingual School
To help document the journey of the new school, we plan a four-part video series. Here's the first.
