North Vancouver's first new elementary school in 35 years opens Tuesday

First bell at Cloverley Elementary rings Tuesday, Sept. 3, marking the first new elementary school to open in North Vancouver in more than 35 years.

The North Vancouver School District built the new facility in Cloverley Park to alleviate overcrowding at Ridgeway Elementary, which has been operating at about double its intended capacity. The $64-million building broke ground in December 2024 and features 18 classrooms, a gymnasium, before- and after-school care, and North Shore Neighbourhood House child care. The school is constructed of mass timber with a focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The building emphasizes natural light, interior glass, and exposed mass timber supports and ceilings. Smaller classrooms are adjoined by central, open-concept pods to help classes collaborate and share resources. Breakout rooms allow students to work in small groups or meet individually with staff. All fixtures are designed with accessibility in mind, including adjustable brightness and colour controls for student comfort.

Principal Tim MacLeod noted the shift in school design philosophy. "When you walk into the building, you actually feel that sense of openness. And it's a little bit of freedom, but it's contained freedom. You feel a little lighter walking into the school," MacLeod said. Vice-principal Danielle Herschmiller added: "It's bringing the outside in." She emphasized the inclusive design: "There are options for every kid to be successful and to feel welcome in a school where they see themselves to be part of the community here. It's open to everybody."

Staff recruitment drew unusually high demand. "Staff that are here are staff that want to be here. It was very high demand," MacLeod said.

The opening brings significant change for hundreds of families. Ridgeway students and teachers will gain breathing room, though friend groups will be split. MacLeod's own children are among those transferring. To ease the transition, the school organized meet-ups at the adjacent park, an ice cream social, kindergarten orientation, and a walk-and-roll event to help students practice traveling to school independently. "There's been a lot of opportunities for the kids to see who's coming, to reduce those anxieties, those jitters. Yes, they're a little nervous. But they are excited to come to this school," MacLeod said.

Transportation has been a planning concern. The catchment area extends all the way to Lonsdale Avenue — roughly a 40-minute walk for younger students. Traffic congestion in the neighbourhood has intensified since the original Cloverley school closed four decades ago.