A new South Surrey school will be opening to students ahead of schedule.
Ta’talu Elementary in Surrey’s Grandview neighbourhood will open its doors to 655 students, consisting of three storeys. Located on the corner of 20 Avenue and 165 A Street, the school was expected to open in January of 2025.
“I am pleased to report that Ta’talu Elementary is proceeding ahead of schedule,” capital projects director David Riley shared at the regular school board meeting on Wednesday (May 8).
Ta’talu Elementary will be opening in October for the fall semester, Riley announced.
Ta’talu, coming from the SENĆOŦEN language, translates to ‘little arms’. This special name, gifted to the district by Semiahmoo First Nation Chief Harley Chappell, is in reference to the Campbell River and its tributaries, which are known as the little arms of the river.
“The opening of this school and the naming using the traditional language of the lands is great for the relationship building between Semiahmoo and the school district, students, staff and local residents,” Chappell said in June 2023.
When asked how the October start will affect enrolment, Supt. Mark Pearmain said the process is still under review, but “it is a welcome problem for us to have at this time.”