Jett Schwaier/CHAT News

By Jett Schwaier

Medicine Hat Public Schools

Medicine Hat Public School Division hears voices of families affected by possible school closures

Dec 4, 2025 | 1:55 AM

The first of two public consultation meetings regarding the possible closures of two Medicine Hat schools was held by the Medicine Hat Public School Division from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Dec. 3, 2025.

About 50 people, including parents and families affected by the potential closure of the Southview Community School, attended the meeting to share their concerns, as trustees are seeking community input before any decisions are made.

A presentation was made providing the reason for the potential closure of the schools.

In the presentation, it was stated that the MHPSD has a mission “to provide an inclusive, progressive learning community through trust, courage, and collaboration.”

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READ: Medicine Hat Public School Division to hold public consultation on two potential school closures

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Tracy Hensel, the MHPSD superintendent, said the discussion is difficult but necessary as the division plans for long-term infrastructure needs and responds to shifting student numbers.

The board chair of trustees, Catherine Wilson, thanked parents for attending and acknowledged the anxiety surrounding school closures.

Following the presentation, families were asked to respond to questions in table discussions, with facilitators recording comments for a report that will go to the board ahead of a final decision.

The questions presented include:

1. What are some considerations you would like the school division to think about when making a decision on possible school amalgamation?
2. What might be some possible opportunities for students if schools are amalgamated?
3. What might be some possible challenges for students if schools are amalgamated?
4. What might be some supports students and families may need to make a smooth transition to a new school if amalgamation takes place?

The results of the table discussions were displayed on the walls for other participants to review.

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Jett Schwaier/Some ideas presented by the audience

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A parent who attended the meeting, Ashleigh Dixon, said the meeting was a good opportunity to put questions on the table and get responses.

“I definitely got more answers to a lot of questions I had,” Dixon said.

“When you first hear about something like this, you have so many things running through your mind.”

Dixon said she didn’t know what to expect, but the event was a positive experience.

“I was nervous coming in, but the atmosphere was calm and reassuring. This format felt casual and natural,” Dixon said.

Concerns were brought up by Dixon about the possible closure, as she worries that the outcome won’t be what the parents hope for.

“I’m hoping that with all the input provided tonight, trustees can find a common ground that’s in the best interest of our children,” Dixon said.

“I’m hoping that if closure happens, the schools will provide the supports needed,” she added.

“Not just for my children, but for all families.”