Part of historic Edmonton school demolished as upgrades get underway

Partial school demolition in Highlands Part of Highlands Junior High was demolished as part of a modernization and expansion project. CTV News Edmonton's Amanda Anderson reports.

Hundreds of students and staff gathered at an Edmonton high school to mark the launch of a major modernization project.

A breezeway at Highlands School was partially torn down as the project got underway Wednesday.

The passage was known as a Grade 7 hangout, according to one student who said watching it come down was emotional.

"Interesting to see everyone come together to watch such a cool thing," said Claire Kalk-Manuel. "I have created a family here and this is like a second home."

Assistant vice-principal Stacey Mabey said that's why the school gathered students to watch the big day.

"It's exciting and some of those little kids, this is going to be their new school and they get to watch it start to finish. That in itself is education," said Mabey.

The modernization project will see the former junior high become a K-9 school and accept students from Mount Royal and Montrose schools, which will shut down once the renovations are complete.

The 1914-built building has undergone multiple upgrades and renovations but has retained its original façade for more than a century.

"It's so historic and since it's the heart of the community, I think it's great they're keeping it as-is but still making it modern," said Grade 9 student Sofia Sejutee.

Both phases of construction are expected to be complete in fall of 2021.

The school is listed on Edmonton’s Inventory of Historic Resources.

With files from CTV News Edmonton's Amanda Anderson.