Officials are refuting Internet claims that an Armstrong landmark will be destroyed.
Someone has established a page on Facebook titled Save AES from the Wrecking Ball.
It suggests Armstrong Elementary is being considered for demolition.
“No it’s not the case. It’s not slated for demolition,” said principal Jodi van der Meer, when contacted.
“In fact, we are planning to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the school in September. I’d be interested to know who started the Facebook page.”
Laurie Myers, a North Okanagan-Shuswap School District trustee, says she heard the demolition rumour at a parents advisory council at AES Thursday.
“We would never entertain that thought because the school is still in really good shape,” she said.
“Armstrong city is trying to get the school designated as a heritage site so it can be demolished. Somewhere along the line, somebody misunderstood.”
In early January, city council voted unanimously to place the 1921 brick school on its heritage register.
The register gives notice to property owners of heritage factors which could impact development options for a property.
“We’ve met with the school board and it gives recognition to the building,” said Mayor Chris Pieper.
Registry does not provide permanent heritage protection but it can be used to identify properties for future protection.
Pieper says any talk about demolition is unsubstantiated.
“Attendance is up and the school is full,” he said.
“There is nothing on the plate that shows the school is being closed.”
That view is also reinforced by Doug Pearson, school district superintendent.
“It was renovated a number of years ago. It’s in pretty good shape and there’s no consideration of that,” said Pearson of demolition.
