Manitoba announces new K-8 school in West St. Paul

Key Takeaways:

• Manitoba’s government is building a new K-8 school in West St. Paul to accommodate 600 students, addressing rapid population growth and keeping class sizes small.
• The school will offer both French and English programs and include 74 infant and preschool child-care spaces, providing a comprehensive learning environment for families.
• $1.5 million was allocated in 2024 for temporary modular units to ease overcrowding, with design work starting soon and construction set for 2026 as part of broader education initiatives in Manitoba.

The Whole Story:

The Manitoba government is building a new kindergarten to Grade 8 school that will welcome 600 students from the growing community in the Rural Municipality (RM) of West St. Paul, Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Tracy Schmidt announced today.  

“The West St. Paul area has grown by leaps and bounds,” said Schmidt. “I am very proud to announce today our government will build a new school in this thriving community that so many families call home. The new school in West St. Paul will help keep class sizes small while ensuring kids can go to school closer to home.” 

The new dual-track French and English kindergarten to Grade 8 school will be located in the Meadowlands development in the RM of West St. Paul, just north of Winnipeg. The school will also include 74 infant and preschool child-care spaces. 

“Our government recognizes the need for more space here in West St. Paul,” said Schmidt. “That’s why we provided $1.5 million in 2024 to add modular units as a temporary measure to help alleviate overcrowding.” 

Design work on the new school is expected to start in the coming months, with construction expected to begin in 2026, noted the minister. 

“The announcement of a new K-8 school in West St. Paul is a welcome and much-appreciated investment in both the community and for the students of Seven Oaks School Division,” said Tony Kreml, superintendent, Seven Oaks School Division. “This new facility will provide students with a modern, first-rate learning environment where they can thrive, reinforcing our commitment to a quality education. Schools are the heart of our communities, bringing people together with a shared purpose – to support learning, growth and opportunity for all. This addition will not only benefit students but also serve as a gathering place that strengthens the entire community. This commitment will ensure that students have access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed, now and in the future.” 

The new school builds on other government initiatives including bringing food to every school in Manitoba, noted the minister. 

“This is wonderful news for me and my family,” said Palak Gupta, resident, West St. Paul. “We love this area and this new school, along with an on-site daycare, will be a game-changer as my children will be able to thrive in an environment that supports their academic and personal growth.” 

The school funding formula has been revamped for the 2025-26 school year to continue the priorities established in last year’s funding, including $6 million for capital support, the minister said.