Two damaged SD58 Schools could reopen in April

School District 58, Nicola Similkameen, has been working to arrange face-to-face instructions for the student body after losing the ability to use three of their schools during the November floods.

Target dates for school openings in Merritt based on the work being done to repair and reorganize facilities are:
– Diamond Vale Elementary – April 4, 2022
– Merritt Secondary School – April 4, 2022 (possible that sections may be available prior to April 4th)
– Merritt Central Elementary School – September 2022

“The work of re-opening schools is complex and therefore we will be doing everything we can to address any emergent issues that come forward during the process. The district currently has approximately 100 staff members from On Side Restoration on site and the work is progressing well. With that said, all opening target dates are best estimates and may need to be adjusted as we move forward,” said Superintendent Steve McNiven.

Face-to-face instructions for students who attended the damaged schools is being arranged throughout the City, from other schools, to NVIT, and even a pair of local churches freeing up space for the District.

“We understand the importance of face-to-face contact for our students, staff and families, and therefore, the district will continue to work over the winter break to prepare alternate facilities scheduled for January,” added McNiven.