October 27th, 2025

Thank you for your ongoing partnership, support, and the feedback you have provided as we work together to best meet the needs of Willow River Public School students, families, staff, and community.

In this message, we will share an update about:

  • Construction progress
  • Childcare Centre Opening

Construction Progress & Timeline

We are providing this update to keep parents, families and caregivers informed about construction progress. Our focus remains on maintaining a safe, welcoming, and productive learning environment for all students and staff throughout the construction period.

While construction is progressing steadily, some parts of the project have taken longer than originally anticipated. We would like to share the updated timeline with parents, families, and caregivers to inform them about:

  • The next phases of the work
  • How these changes will impact the school

The following represents the current projected timeline: while work is progressing well, some dates may shift slightly as construction continues:

  • October 2025
    • All students will move into their classrooms inside the school building.
    • The portables will no longer be needed.
  • November 2025
    • The Childcare Centre, operated by YWCA KW, is scheduled to open on November 10, 2025.
  • December 2025
    • The gymnasium, stage, and music room will be ready for use.
  • February 2026
    • Students and staff will be able to access and occupy all areas on the second floor.
  • March 2026
    • Final details and touch-ups will be completed.

We remain on track to have all exterior finishes and landscaping completed before winter, which will help create a more polished and welcoming outdoor environment. By December 2025, construction fencing will be significantly reduced to only the west-side service laneway and used by contractors for second-floor access.

Safety Measures

While the work continues, safety continues to be our top priority. Fenced barriers separate construction areas from the spaces used by students and staff, including outdoor play areas.

Safety signage is posted on all construction entry doors to maintain clear boundaries between active work areas and occupied spaces. Each morning before students arrive, the construction team conducts a site walkthrough and hazard assessment to ensure these boundaries remain secure and safe.

Childcare Centre Opening

We are pleased to share that the YWCA KW Childcare Centre at Willow River PS will open on Monday, November 10, 2025.

Parents, families and caregivers who are interested in registration for the program can do so through OneList. For questions about the program, please contact directly to YWCA KW by email to: Jennifer.marshall@ywkw.ca.

Next Steps 

We are grateful for your continued patience and support as we work through the final stages of construction. We recognize that changes in timelines can be challenging, and we appreciate the flexibility shown by students, parents, families, caregivers, and staff as we work to open more of the school’s learning spaces.

We will continue to post updates on the school website as milestones are reached and as more areas of the school become available for student use.

Questions?

Please visit the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Construction Timeline at Willow River PS.