Inside Calgary’s brand-new $70M high school

It’s back to school season and excitement is in the air as almost 1,300 Calgary students are preparing to hit the books at the city’s newest school.

North Trail High School will open to students for the first time ever this week.

But, as the city continues to grow, the Calgary Board of Education is anticipating roughly 7,000 new enrolments this year.

Principal Michael Bester says this school provides much-needed relief in the city’s north.

““Many advocates as part of the Northern Hills Community Association and parents have been advocating for over a decade to have a new school here and they are so excited,” he said.

The $70-million building features automotive shops, culinary arts kitchens, and even a theatre. But some students are just as exited about the simple luxury of space.

“It’s so cool cause it’s new and way bigger than middle school. There’s more spaces to do open classrooms and stuff so we can do things together,” said student Maya Stewart,

“I think it’s really modern and it’ll be a great place for kids to hang out,” added Aliza Lakhani, another student.

Meanwhile, for North Trail teachers, the school presents a unique opportunity.

“Having the chance to be part of opening a new school is something that you’ll do once in your career,” said educator Rachel Gustafson.

By the time North Trail is fully developed in 2024, the school is expected to welcome some 1,900 students.

According to the CBE, the student enrolment for this academic year is up five per cent from 2022.

As the board prepares for further student influx, CBE plans to increase its staffing by 774 positions.