Members of the Medicine Hat Public School Division board have voted to close two schools in the city. (Photo: CHAT News Today)

By Jett Schwaier

Two schools in the Medicine Hat Public School Division are slated for closure

Jan 7, 2026 | 9:05 AM

The Medicine Hat Public School Division board of trustees decided to close both Webster Niblock School and Southview Community School at its meeting on Jan. 6, 2026.

The trustees approved the closure of the schools to take place after the 2025-2026 school year.

Board chair Catherine Wilson said in early November 2025 that declining enrollment and underutilized buildings prompted the review, leading to the closures.

Wilson said the decision was difficult, but she believes this is going to bring resources back to schools and benefit kids in the long run.

“I think we have to make sure this is a smooth transition for families, and we’re going to do everything we can to make sure that that happens,” Wilson said.

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Wilson said the issues the board has faced have been ongoing for five years, with the emotional toll proving to be the most difficult aspect.

“When you look at the data, and you look at the numbers, you know that you’re making the right decision, but it doesn’t mean that it’s easy on your heart to know that you’re uprooting children,” Wilson said.

“We’re going to do everything in our power to make sure it’s as easy as possible.”

Before making a decision, the trustees questioned how boundaries, transportation, staffing movement and school choice would be managed if closures proceed.

Administration confirmed staffing and funding would follow students, with transition planning prioritized, and Wilson said she is optimistic about the process.

“[The children] have to start at a new school, but I do have faith that we’ve got great teachers that are going to follow them.”

The students from Webster Niblock School will be transitioning to the nearby Vincent Massey School or Dr. Ken Sauer Fine Arts School in the fall.

Southview Community School students will shift to Ross Glen School or Crestwood STEM School.

Families will be provided updated bus routes before registration.

Administration said Alberta Education provides transportation funding for elementary students living more than 1.6 km from their school, and with the current capacity, proposed routes would offer bus service at distances of 1.4 km.

The trustees held two public consultation meetings in 2025 before deciding on the closures.

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

READ: Medicine Hat Public School Division draws around 100 parents to its second consultation meeting