A meadow is more than a nice spot for a picnic, it can also be ideal for learning. Okotoks area students will have plenty to learn at Meadow Ridge School, the name for the Foothills School Division’s kindergarten to Grade 9 school on 32 Street, scheduled to open in September 2019. The name was selected by trustees from a short-list of three, which was presented at their public meeting on Sept. 19 in High River. “I like it for the wetlands up there which will be part of the learning environment,” said trustee Theresa Letendre. “I like the tie there is to the learning.” Rebecca Forchuk, Meadow Ridge principal-in-waiting, agreed. “I think it’s a beautiful name that reflects the land in terms of the wetlands and the field and reflects the location on the ridge,” Forchuk said. The great outdoors and the wetlands will be an outdoor classroom for the students. “Absolutely,” Forchuk said. “Part of the curriculum is looking at wetlands. For our younger grades we will be looking at seasonal changes and environmental pieces around sustainability, ecosystems and how people can take care of the land.” As for the ridge, students can take a gander to the west and enjoy the spectacular Canadian Rockies. Forchuk was part of the naming committee that consisted of parents and teachers as well students who were consulted. The other names presented to trustees were Grandview and Skyview schools. An issue was there are already two Grandview School in Alberta, one in Red Deer and the other in Bowden. As well, there will soon be a school in Skyview Ranch, a community in Calgary. As for Meadow Ridge School, there is a “Meadowridge School” in Maple Ridge, B.C. While it’s got a name the school still needs a mascot. Meadow Ridge Meadowlarks march to FAC title is a bit premature for a headline. The team name for Meadow Ridge will be selected in the next school year with help from parents and students. “Once the students are here, we will start asking for input,” Forchuk said. She added construction of Meadow Ridge School is on schedule.
