Summerland community comes out to discuss possible Trout Creek Elementary closure

SUMMERLAND – It was a packed house of parents, concerned residents, students, and Summerland councillors during a meeting this week to discuss possible school closures in the school district.

Yesterday, Jan. 13, a meeting was held at Trout Creek Elementary School to allow the public to express concerns about a recently announced option for school closures in Summerland that would see the school closed.

The meeting was part of the school district’s public consultation regarding possible school closures in the district.

School District 67 Board Chair Linda Van Alphen says many of the 177 people in attendance made presentations following a similar theme, pointing out the benefits of having a small community school, such as Trout Creek Elementary, with great teachers and administration.

“There was a great deal of conversation around the number of 'family friendly' developments that seemed to be happening near the school,” Van Alphen says.

She says many of those attending had concerns about the school district’s process.

“Our Secretary-Treasurer explained we were following our policy on school closures in regard to the 60-day consultation period,” she says.

A final board decision regarding all options presented is expected to be announced at a special board meeting scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 20, in the IMC Building behind the school district offices, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

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