Prairie Crossroads School has officially broken ground on a brand-new, nearly 40,000 square foot facility, nestled in the RM of Stanley off the corridor between Morden and Winkler. The sod turning ceremony brought together community members and dignitaries from across the region, including representatives from all levels of government and neighbouring municipalities. Chairperson Travis Penner addressed the crowd, reflecting on the school's rapid growth since the idea was first conceptualized. "In the spring of 2019, a small group of people received the call from the Lord to start a school. Somewhat of an outrageous call, but a call nonetheless,” said Penner. “We opened the school in September of 2020. We opened with 33 students, two classrooms, two paid staff, a whole pile of volunteer staff and in the middle of COVID, which, what better time to open the school than in the middle of COVID, right?” Nonstop growth Since that time, the Prairie Crossroads has grown to house 158 students across 10 classrooms, including nine portables and one borrowed church space. Starting this fall, it will also offer full K–12 education as a provincially approved institution. “We certainly exceeded our expectations for growth,” Penner said. “We've been pretty blessed that way.” The new building, which the school hopes to open in time for the September 2026 school year, will house 13 classrooms, a full-size gym, a library, a kitchen, indoor bathrooms, and a dedicated space for music and resource programming. Related stories: Salvaged furniture from Winkler hotel fire to be auctioned for Faith Mission How meals and mentorship combine in The Bunker’s food truck “What our students and our teachers are probably most looking forward to... It’s gonna have indoor bathrooms. They won't have to walk 200 feet, -30 in the middle of winter to go to the bathroom,” he laughed. The school is also planning for long-term growth, with expansion in mind and a location intentionally chosen to serve families from across the region. “As we look at our student body now, we have as many students from Winkler as we do from Morden, and we probably have a few more from the RM of Stanley than either one of those,” Penner said. “We truly are a regional school… This land is ideally located smack dab in the middle of Morden and Winkler.” Call for support as construction begins The school has already reached 30% of its fundraising goal and is continuing to seek support through prayer, donations, and volunteer labour. Those interested in helping out can contact Penner directly via email.