Chris Norbury, a longtime resident of Tumbler Ridge, experienced mixed emotions as he witnessed the demolition of Tumbler Ridge Secondary School this week. His wife was present at the school during the tragic mass shooting in February. Norbury, along with other community members, gathered to observe the commencement of the demolition process on Monday.
The construction of the brown-bricked school dated back to the 1980s, established in conjunction with Tumbler Ridge’s coal mining development. Over the past four decades, numerous generations of students have created cherished memories within its walls. However, following the devastating events of February 10, both students and teachers expressed a strong desire to not return to the premises and instead opted for the removal of the building.
As the demolition signifies the commencement of a new chapter for Tumbler Ridge and its students, Norbury emphasized the importance of closure and the initiation of a healing process post-tragedy. He expressed hope that this phase symbolizes the beginning of community recovery.
In preparation for the construction of a new school, students will be accommodated at a temporary campus this fall. Various facilities, including modular classrooms, administrative offices, and counselling centers, are being set up at the local elementary school grounds. Additionally, a child-care center and a mobile trades training center by the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology are in progress.
The School District 59 board chair, Chad Anderson, highlighted the paramount aim of ensuring student and staff safety, emphasizing the provision of a stable schedule and regular classwork for students in the upcoming academic year. For those who may not be ready to return, distance learning options and support will be made available.
Looking ahead, the site of the former secondary school will be transformed into a grass field, with decisions pending regarding permanent memorials and the property’s future use. Mayor Darryl Krakowka emphasized that the wishes of the victims’ families will direct the establishment of a future permanent memorial. The municipality is actively engaging in the development of a comprehensive community recovery plan, with ongoing support from provincial and federal entities.
As the community progresses towards healing and rebuilding, consultations regarding the design and placement of the new school are slated for later this year. Both Anderson and Norbury expressed optimism and anticipation for the positive impact a new school will bring to Tumbler Ridge.