Chinook Learning Services is Moving
Chinook Learning Services currently offers High School Upgrading courses in classrooms at Lord Beaverbrook, Forest Lawn, and James Fowler High Schools. In early 2026, this programming will be consolidated into one location at Spruce Cliff School in the city’s southwest, near Westbrook Mall and the Westbrook LRT station. Enrolment in high schools across the city continues to increase due to our city's rapidly growing population. We need to make space in CBE high schools to accommodate this growth.
About Chinook Learning Services
Chinook helps students complete high school by offering required courses such as mathematics, social studies, biology, chemistry and more that have not been successfully completed in their designated high schools. Students also attend Chinook to increase their competitive averages or upgrade to a higher academic stream. This valuable service has been helping thousands of high school students graduate for many years.
The CBE is committed to maintaining the same level of programming for Chinook Learning Services. Many options were explored to identify the best possible decision for Chinook and all students. Spruce Cliff School was selected as it is big enough to maintain Chinook operations and has several nearby transportation options and amenities for Chinook students and staff.
Project Timeline
We are currently in the planning stages, and CBE has been working diligently to lay the groundwork for a successful move.
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Planning Phase: Winter 2024 – Spring 2025
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Construction and School Renovation: Summer – Winter 2025
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Program Occupancy: Early 2026
We will continue sharing updates on the progress of this project.
Course Offerings
- Between now and the move in early 2026, students can still register for Chinook courses using the current registration process.
- During the remainder of the 2024-25 school year, Chinook will continue to operate out of its current locations.
- In the first semester of the 2025-26 school year, High School Upgrading courses will be offered at Forest Lawn High School and the CBE Career and Technology Centre located near Central Memorial High School.
- Chinook Learning Services Continuing Education will still offer adult Professional Development courses at the Career and Technology Centre.
Course offerings and locations will be shared on the Chinook Learning Services website as they become available. More information will be shared with students, families and community members between now and early 2026.
Project FAQ
The questions below were collected through the community feedback survey that took place between Nov. 1 and 21. If you have any additional questions, please contact accommodation@cbe.ab.ca.
Will there be enough space for staff and students at the new location?
Yes, there will be enough space for Chinook to accommodate staff and students.
Will the new location have enough classrooms to offer all current courses?
Yes, Chinook will offer all its current courses at Spruce Cliff School. A timetable will be created, and courses will be offered at specific times throughout the day or week. Classes will take place from morning through evening and students can select the time that best suits them. This will ensure that every course remains available each semester.
Will the new building have specialized spaces like science labs, test centres, and study areas?
Yes, Spruce Cliff School will be renovated to meet the needs of high school and adult students. The updates will include science labs and dedicated spaces to support Chinook's programs and students' learning needs. These renovations will be completed before the school opens in early 2026.
Will new complementary courses be introduced to help students meet graduation requirements?
Chinook will continue offering its current courses after the move to Spruce Cliff School. In the future, we hope to expand the variety of complementary courses based on student interest and demand. This will provide more opportunities for students to meet their graduation requirements.
How will the new location support the needs of the surrounding community?
Chinook and the Calgary Board of Education are committed to being good neighbours to the Spruce Cliff community. To address potential concerns like increased traffic, we are planning upgrades to expand the school parking lot. We will also maintain open communication with the Spruce Cliff Community Association throughout the renovation process and transition to the new location. Additionally, we are working with the City of Calgary and partner organizations to ensure the move is as smooth as possible for everyone involved.
Will there be school bus services or public transit options for students travelling to Spruce Cliff School?
Yes, Spruce Cliff School is located near multiple Calgary Transit options, including C-Train and bus options. City of Calgary’s Plan Your Trip tool can identify the best route to the new school site from your location.
What resources will be available to help students adjust to the new location?
There will be transition plans communicated in Spring 2025 to those impacted by this move, including students and Chinook staff. All new Chinook students receive an orientation about what they can expect from the program, once signed up for a course.
