Muriel Clayton Middle School

Engage, enrich and empower middle level learners to reach for their potential as competent, successful individuals in a safe and caring environment.

Muriel Clayton's History

Our school is named in honour of the first teacher in the Airdrie District.  Emily Muriel Mason was born in England in 1882 and with her family emigrated to Chicago in 1891 where she lived for eight years and completed her education.  Miss Mason became the first teacher of Sunnyside School when it opened its door on February 22, 1899 to nine students.  The Sunnyside school was located on the same property as the Dickson Stopping House (located along the highway between Airdrie and Crossfield).

In 1904 Miss Mason married rancher Jack Clayton, the son of Henry Clayton, the fourth homesteader in Township 27. Muriel and Jack had eleven children. Through the courage and dedication of Mrs. Clayton, and teachers like her, education in Airdrie and Rocky View developed.