Parents relieved after school closure reprieve

SALMON ARM–North Okanagan parents are praising the decision of School District 83 to hold off on closing two North Okanagan schools.

The board voted on Tuesday to extend the consultation process before making a decision to close two North Okanagan schools; Armstrong Elementary and Silver Creek Elementary.

READ MORE:  North Okanagan-Shuswap school closure decision delayed

” I am very excited… I have a son with autism who was going into kindergarten next year and I am thrilled that he will in fact be able to attend Armstrong Elementary School,” says Carmyn Garraway.  “I’m extremely excited. Then we’ll just go with the flow and see what the year brings after that but I’m optimistic.”

The board heard from representatives of the Armstrong Education Committee, who suggested instead of closing the schools the school district could switch to a four day week, try to attract international students, and put in “magnet” programs including Montessori and French Immersion in Armstrong.