STAR Catholic Board Approves Grade Expansion into High School at Sacred Heart School, Wetaskiwin
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On December 18, 2024, at the STAR Catholic monthly board meeting, STAR Catholic Board of Trustees approved that administration proceed with the implementation of high school grade levels at Sacred Heart School, in Wetaskiwin, starting with Grade 10 in September 2025. This marks a significant development for Sacred Heart School and the Wetaskiwin community, as the school will expand its educational offerings to include high school grades.
The decision to expand comes in response to the growing educational needs of the community. The phased approach will begin with Grade 10 in the 2025-2026 school year, followed by Grade 11 in the 2026-2027 school year, and Grade 12 in the 2027-2028 school year. This timeline allows for thoughtful planning, ensuring that the school has the necessary resources, staff, and infrastructure to support students as they progress through their high school years. This expansion follows consultations with parents, educators, and community members, many of whom expressed a desire for high school grades at Sacred Heart School.
Currently, Sacred Heart educates students from kindergarten to Grade 9 and adding Grades 10–12 will provide more educational options within the community, while maintaining a faith-based high school experience in Wetaskiwin.
On October 28, 2024, the Board of Trustees and Senior Administration of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Schools hosted a consultation evening to discuss the proposed expansion. Over 150 people, including parents, guardians, staff, and parishioners from the Wetaskiwin area, attended the event. Attendees were presented with details about the expansion, including the objectives, timeline, and background information. They had the opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback through a survey, which was analyzed to guide the board’s decision.
Sacred Heart School, with its focus on academic excellence, Catholic values, and community, is prepared to provide a high school experience that promotes personal, spiritual, career and academic growth. The board is focused on ensuring the expansion is carefully planned, with attention to staffing, facilities, and programs to support students.
The board and administration encourage parents, students, and community members to stay informed and engaged as the school division works toward the successful implementation of high school programming at Sacred Heart School.
Details about the grade expansion can be found here: