School District 59 is expected to enter the second stage of adding portable classrooms in Tumbler Ridge, according to Mayor Darryl Krakowka.
He says larger portable classrooms will be brought into the community next month, allowing for an improved learning experience.
Tumbler Ridge will receive classrooms typically used in growing communities that lack sufficient school space.
Students will be able to return to regular school hours. The mayor says it is an important step with the end of the school year approaching.
During a meeting with government ministers, Krakowka says he discussed options for the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where the shooting happened.
Jesse Van Rootselaar, 18, shot and killed her mother and half-brother at their home in Tumbler Ridge before going to the school, and killing six people and then herself.
Krakowka says whether the school is renovated or destroyed is a decision that must reflect what the community wants.
“It’s important for our youth to see a path forward and to make sure we’ve captured their voices,” he said.
The top priority has been to make students feel safe and supported since the Feb. 10 tragedy. There have been concerns that returning students to the school could cause long-term mental health impacts.