The new $2 million addition to Bluefield High School was officially opened today by students, staff, parents, Eastern School District representatives and government officials.
"The Government of Prince Edward Island is committed to providing high quality learning and teaching environments for students and teachers," said Premier Pat Binns. "Schools are a vital link in our Island communities and this new addition to Bluefield will serve students, staff and community members."
The Government of Prince Edward Island began its $43 million Capital Construction Plan for schools in 1997/98. The plan is a multi-year strategy to enhance the infrastructure of 10 Island schools, and provide for the on-going capital maintenance of all schools in PEI.
The new addition at Bluefield is 15,000 square feet. It consists of seven new classrooms, one special education area, a sick room, an art room, two work rooms, a general office area and a new main entrance area. Renovations were also carried out in the existing building to provide new washrooms and a teachers' lounge.
The Honourable Jeffrey E. Lantz, Minister of Education, also participated in the official opening.
"Bluefield has provided an excellent education for students since it opened its doors in 1978," said Minister Lantz. "The improvements to the existing structure and the new addition will ensure the school will continue to meet the needs of its students for generations to come."
Eugene Murphy, principal of the school, said the school community is very pleased with the new addition.
"It has provided us with needed classroom space, as well as a general office area and new washrooms," said Mr. Murphy. "The students and staff are pleased to participate in this official opening with parents and other community members."
Speaking for the Eastern School District, Board Chairperson, Robert Clow, noted, "This wonderful new addition marks one more step in our march to ensure safe, clean and functional working and learning environments for all students and staff members throughout the District's 43 school communities."
The architect for the construction project was Jones and Manning Architects. The general contractor was Schurman Construction Ltd.