Today, the Board of Trustees were joined by MLA Brandon Lunty, City of Leduc Mayor Bob Young, project partners, special guests, students and staff for a special ceremony to celebrate the official opening of Ohpaho Secondary School in southwest Leduc.
“The opening of Ohpaho Secondary School is an exciting moment for our school community,” said Board Chair Esther Eckert. “This school not only helps to address the growing enrollment pressures in the community, but also provides a vibrant space where students can thrive, explore their passions, and prepare for a bright future.”
“Ohpaho Secondary School is a testament to the Alberta government’s commitment to ensuring students in Leduc and area receive the very best education in state-of-the-art schools,” said MLA Brandon Lunty. “Investing in education is investing in the future of our province, and this new school is a shining example of that.”
Ohpaho Secondary School is located within close proximity to future recreation amenities, and can accommodate up to 1,100 students. It has the ability to expand to a future capacity of 1,600 to address the needs of students for decades to come.
“As Leduc continues to grow, Ohpaho Secondary School will help meet the needs of our community and contribute to the high quality of life that our residents and young families enjoy,” said City of Leduc Mayor Bob Young. “It will be a space where hands-on learning meets innovation and students have the chance to develop real-world skills while nurturing their creativity.”
The state-of-the-art school, located near future recreation amenities, can accommodate 1,100 students with the potential to expand to 1,600. It features bright and airy classrooms, modern athletic facilities, and flexible learning spaces tailored to meet the diverse needs of today’s students.
With STEM/robotics labs, fine arts studios, video broadcasting/production facilities, an industrial kitchen for the culinary arts, an outdoor classroom and much more, the school is designed to deliver a world-class public education to students.
Maskwacis First Nations Elder Kirk Buffalo brought in inspirational message to the gathering, and the Dancing Cree group put on an amazing, colourful and soul-stirring performance.
“We are excited to cut the ribbon and officially open up this beautiful new school to offer our students the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed,” said Superintendent of Schools/CEO Michael Borgfjord. “As educators, we are committed to fostering a safe and welcoming learning environment where every student can flourish, dream, and prepare for greater accomplishments in the future.”
The school’s name, Ohpaho, means “taking flight” in Cree, was chosen as part of the Board’s commitment to reconciliation. The name captures the spirit of public education—to help students soar toward a brighter future.
Watch the highlight video from the event: