New St. John Paul II Academy Opens Doors in South Surrey

On September 3, 2023, the newly established St. John Paul II Academy in South Surrey held an open house event, welcoming families and community members into its newly completed facilities. The school aims to address the growing need for Catholic education in the area, which currently has only one Catholic high school, Holy Cross High School, to serve approximately 85,000 students in the K-12 sector.

A statue of St. John Paul II stands at the entrance, adorned with the inscription “Be not afraid,” symbolizing the spirit of the institution. The open house featured tours of the school, refreshments, and a barbecue, creating an inviting atmosphere for guests. The academy opened with an initial enrollment of around 140 students, with the capacity to eventually accommodate up to 540.

Troy Van Vliet, founder and chairman of the St. John Paul II Academy Foundation, highlighted the significance of the new facility. “It definitely serves a need in the area,” Van Vliet stated. He noted that while Vancouver has four Catholic high schools for its 55,000 K-12 students, the demand in Surrey was considerably higher, underscoring the necessity of this new educational institution.

The development of the academy has been a long-term project, with planning spanning over a decade. Challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and supply chain disruptions posed significant hurdles, but the foundation remained determined. “This has been more than a project — it has been a calling,” Van Vliet remarked. “Through prayer, persistence, and the unwavering support of our Catholic families and community, St. John Paul II Academy is now a reality.”

Modern Facilities and Inclusive Environment

The architecture of St. John Paul II Academy emphasizes openness and flexibility. The school features garage-style doors that open into a common courtyard from multiple indoor spaces, fostering a collaborative environment. Classrooms are designed to facilitate various learning styles, including areas that can transform into workshop spaces. The facility also includes a library, athletic fields, and a gymnasium.

While St. John Paul II Academy is rooted in the Catholic faith, Van Vliet emphasized that students of all backgrounds are welcome. “We’re a Catholic school, but we have many non-Catholics as well,” he explained. This inclusive approach aims to promote a culture of reverence for life and community involvement among students.

Furthermore, the school is equipped with a strong learning support resource centre, ensuring that all students have access to the educational resources they need.

The new academy is located at 2358 182 Street, marking a significant addition to the educational landscape of South Surrey. As it embarks on this journey, St. John Paul II Academy hopes to become a pillar of academic excellence and a nurturing environment for students in the region.