January 8, 2026 Update on Carihi Gym

Over Winter Break, crews completed temporary work on the Carihi Secondary gym. This work was done to protect the building from further damage while the district waits for approval from the provincial government to move forward with additional repairs or potential replacement.

The following work was completed:

• The gym exterior was fully wrapped to protect it from weather.
• All openings were sealed and temporary drainage was installed.
• A temporary roof was put in place.
• Final hazardous materials cleaning is underway.

This work was done to stabilize the building. It does not mean that full construction or repairs have started.

We understand there has been speculation in the community that the gym could reopen by September 2026 based on the work completed over Winter Break. We want to be clear that this timeline is not possible; the gym will not be ready for use by September 2026.

The district has submitted a capital funding request to the Ministry of Infrastructure to rebuild the former A-Wing and address the gym. At this time, we do not know when a funding decision will be made. Construction cannot begin until funding is approved and the project goes through a public tender process.

We know how much Carihi Secondary School and its gym mean to students, families, and the wider community. We share the eagerness to see the school fully repaired and to move forward from the November 2024 fire.

We will continue to share updates as more information becomes available and timelines become clearer.