Ariel Front School View

Construction on Ohpaho Secondary School was completed. School Opened Fall of 2024.


Ohpaho, a Cree word for taking flight, braids new and old ideas regarding the relationship between Indigenous people, allies, and place names with connections to migratory routes and transportation hubs like the Edmonton International Airport. The name is also a contemporary metaphor for our schools preparing young people to head out into the world pursuing their hopes and dreams – to take flight!

The Board of Trustees would like to acknowledge Mr. Brian Lightning, who graciously gifted us the name.  

Giving Leduc’s newest high school an Indigenous name is a historic first for the Board of Trustees. It is a nod to the history of this land, the prominent Indigenous culture of the region, and honours the Cree language. This action, combined with the many Indigenous-related educational initiatives taking place across Black Gold, help to promote cross-cultural understanding and acceptance, and is a response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. It’s also a recognition that the Division is located on Treaty 6 territory

Ohpaho Secondary School will feature a number of programming options, including:

  • Industrial/commercial kitchen for a culinary arts program
  • Art kiln to augment the Fine Arts program
  • Cosmetology and esthetics lab
  • Dedicated spaces for robotics, 3D printing and design/merchandising
  • Dedicated Outdoor Education classroom
  • CTS space with a wood shop and welding bays
  • Dedicated spaces for Drama/ Musical Theatre and Musical arts
  • Medical Sciences space
  • Horticultural/agricultural studies

Land Acknowledgement

We acknowledge that we are on Treaty 6 territory, a traditional meeting grounds, gathering place, and travelling route to the Cree, Saulteaux, Blackfoot, Métis, Dene and Nakota Sioux. We acknowledge all the many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit whose footsteps have marked these lands for centuries.