Fed up with overcrowded classrooms, parents demand info on new school for Kenmount Terrace

Parents of students at Larkhall Academy, Leary's Brook Junior High and Prince of Wales Collegiate in St. John's say their schools are crowded and they're frustrated by a lack of government action on a promised new school.

Jillian Croke, who has a child at Larkhall Academy, says parents were promised the new school over a decade ago and they need to know the plan to address overcrowding while they wait for the new facility.

"Our children just deserve better," said Croke on Wednesday at a news conference Wednesday at the site for the proposed school. "I truly believe that they're losing on their education."

A new school for the Kenmount Terrace area, announced by Premier Andrew Furey in September, is set to open in 2026.

The provincial Education Department held a round of public consultations on the school in March, but no updates have been shared with parents, said Croke.

She says a group of concerned parents has submitted letters and emails to the Education Department but have received minimal response other than being told announcements will be made in the days to come.

Overcrowded schools

Croke says classes are being broken up throughout the semester and the cafeteria and library are being used as makeshift classrooms. Leary's Brook also has no green space so children have to play in the parking lot at recess, she said.

"It is sad when you think that there are children outside playing, having access to go rent a book from their library, while other children are stuck inside and are losing access to those things." 

In April, the Education Department announced plans to rearrange grades to manage overcrowding at the four schools in the Prince of Wales system. Starting in September, St. Andrew's Elementary and Larkhall will have students from kindergarten to Grade 4, Leary's Brook will have grades 5 to 8 and Prince of Wales will have Grade 9 and up. 

Parents in limbo 

Progressive Conservative education critic Paul Dinn, who met with upset parents Wednesday morning to discuss their frustrations, says overcrowding in schools has created an unacceptable learning environment for children. 

"We're looking for a plan. We already know that the minister recognizes there's a problem with the current schools," said Dinn. "So what is the plan for our parents and our kids?"

In the most recent provincial budget, the Liberal government announced $41 million in funding for new schools in Cartwright, Kenmount Terrace, Portugal Cove-St. Philip's and Pilley's Island. They also said they will be spending $146 million over the next three years on the projects. 

"There's millions of dollars announced … and there's not a shovel in the ground. We don't know when that will happen," said Dinn. 

CBC News has asked for comment from the provincial government but has not received a response. 

Download our free CBC News app to sign up for push alerts for CBC Newfoundland and Labrador. Click here to visit our landing page.