tawâw school in north Regina welcomes hundreds of students

As Mick Favel tells us, a new era of education is beginning in north Regina, with the opening of Tawaw School.

A new facility intended to bring four elementary schools together is officially open in north Regina.

Students, educators and dignitaries were in attendance at the grand opening of tawâw school.

The new Kindergarten to Grade 8 facility is now home for the former students of the Imperial Community School and McDermid Community School.

There are a total of 470 students currently in the new school.

“Being able to combine a school a few blocks away into this one, and bringing communities together just brings more efficiencies,” said Adam Hicks, the board chair of Regina Public Schools.

Although the students have access to the building for a few weeks, there are already positive reviews.

“It’s a much better school than our last one. It’s more high tech. Better quality. It’s an overall better school,” said Ryker Harding, a Grade 8 student at tawâw school.

• Download the CTV News app to get breaking news alerts sent to your device

The Government of Saskatchewan provided $63 million for the construction of the school.

The City of Regina provided $4 million for a community centre and kitchen.

“This new joint-use school, it serves not just the students and the education system they are in, it also serves the entire community,” Education Minister Everett Hindley told reporters.

tawâw school is named after a Cree term which translates to “Welcome,” or “Come in.”

The new name is intended for the inclusion of all students.

“When students feel like they belong, and students and staff care for you - kids will do better,” Hicks added.

In a few months, the Catholic portion of the building will open - pushing the total capacity of the school to 1,000 students.