New private school hoping to open in Fort McMurray in 2023
CBC
The businessperson behind a private school that hopes to open in Fort McMurray next year promises a safe, disciplined environment for university-bound students in grades 7 through 12.
Students at North Fort Private School would wear uniforms and need to follow a strict zero-tolerance drug policy.
Tuition has been set at $13,500 for students in Grade 7 and 8, and $15,000 for students in Grade 9 through 12, on top of a $500 application fee.
Students applying to the school need to complete an essay, provide a letter of recommendation and have good grades.
Yerlan Aubakirov, North Fort's CEO, moved to Fort McMurray from Calgary this year to open the school. He previously worked for mining company Teck Resources and has completed a chartered director program through McMaster University.
Aubakirov is currently in the process of seeking accreditation for the school from Alberta Education.
North Fort would be for up to 200 students. Initially, the school would operate from space on the second floor of the Bob Lamb Building at Keyano College.
To date, four students have enrolled.
The school would offer free tutoring and help students get into their preferred university. It would also help students take part in the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award program.
"You get what you pay for and education is not different … You pay and you get a little bit better," Aubakirov said.
The school's main goal is to "open a very safe, protective environment" without bullying or drugs, he said.
Aubakirov said he believes the private school can accomplish its goals through smaller classes, which "allows better control of student behaviour."
Parents would be asked to take their children back to public school if they are caught using or holding drugs.
If the parent refuses to remove their child, Aubakirov said the school could provide online education, as to "not expose other kids to this particular child."
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