News Release | MHPSD Launches Consultation on Proposed School Closures

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Medicine Hat Public School Division Launches Consultation on Proposed School Closures 

Medicine Hat, Alberta: Medicine Hat Public School Division (MHPSD) Board of Trustees initiated a structured public consultation process to explore the potential closure of Webster Niblock School and Southview Community School. This proposal is part of a broader effort to optimize resources and enhance programming across the division.

“We understand that the possibility of change can feel overwhelming,” said Superintendent, Tracy Hensel. “Our goal is to provide every student with access to high-quality instructional programming and learning environments. By consolidating resources, we would be in a better position to support our staff and students in the classroom.”

The consultation process follows an in-depth value scoping exercise conducted in January 2025, involving MHPSD leadership, Alberta Education managers, and architects. This analysis focused on three areas of the city, Southeast (elementary schools), North (elementary schools), and the hill (elementary, middle and high schools), and highlighted the challenges posed by maintaining four small schools with fewer than 200 students.

“Small schools present unique challenges,” said Catherine Wilson, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “From staffing limitations to infrastructure costs, we must consider how best to use our resources to benefit all students. This consultation is about listening to our community and making informed decisions together.” 

The proposed changes could see students from Webster Niblock reassigned to Vincent Massey School and/or Dr. Ken Sauer Fine Arts School, while Southview students could transition to Crestwood STEM School and/or Ross Glen School. MHPSD is committed to supporting families through this transition, ensuring continuity in programming, transportation, and peer connections.

Public consultation meetings will be held at Medicine Hat Public School Division Central Office, at 601 1st Ave SW, Medicine Hat. The format of the meeting is in person, facilitated feedback session.

• Southview Community 
  Dec 3 from 6:30 - 8 p.m.
  Register 
• Webster Niblock Community
  Dec 4 from 6:30 - 8 p.m.
  Register

Feedback can also be submitted through the Proposed School Closures – Stakeholder Survey that is posted on the MHPSD and school websites. A transition plan will be shared if closures proceed, with support beginning January 12, 2026. 

Once the consultation phases have concluded, the Board will take a month to thoughtfully consider and will come to a decision early in 2026. 

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Links to important Resources:

• Planning Ahead Together | MHPSDs Engagement Strategy 
• Proposed School Closures FACT Sheet
• Public Consultation Invitation Letter to Southview Community School Families
• Public Consultation Invitation Letter to Webster Niblock School Families
• Policy 724: School and Program Closure and Relocation

Contact
Lee Krasilowez, Communications Manager
Medicine Hat Public School Division
communications@sd76.ab.ca
403.977.9086