Work has commenced on the dismantling of Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in northeastern British Columbia following a tragic mass shooting incident earlier this year. The school witnessed the loss of five students and one staff member on February 10, marking one of the deadliest shooting incidents in Canada.
Over the past few weeks, crews have been relocating the school’s contents using covered trucks in preparation for its physical demolition. School District 59 Superintendent Christy Fennell mentioned in a letter to residents that this marks a significant step in the gradual dismantling process, which is anticipated to continue for several more weeks. After the structure is removed, efforts will proceed through the autumn to restore the site to its natural state with grass.
To minimize disruption, the school district has planned the demolition in stages, ensuring that the waste is transported to regional landfills to maintain the community’s privacy. Plans have been put forth by Premier David Eby to expedite the establishment of a new school at an undisclosed location, supported by a joint commitment of $200 million from federal and provincial authorities for the new school and upgrades to the local health center.
Tumbler Ridge, a community of approximately 2,400 residents, was home to around 160 students spanning grades 7 to 12 at the secondary school, which also housed a college campus. Following the tragic event, temporary portable classrooms have been set up at the nearby elementary school, with additional modular facilities, including washrooms, offices, counseling areas, and communal spaces, being brought in for the upcoming school year.
Looking ahead, the school district aims to collaborate with students and residents to gather input on the conceptual designs for the new secondary school during the fall.