The new school in Stratford is another example of our government’s commitment to building a stronger school system for our one Island community, says Premier Robert Ghiz.
“The new Stratford Elementary School is ensuring that the children in the rapidly growing community of Stratford have access to the best possible education,” said Premier Ghiz. “This modern building provides Stratford students with the space and equipment they need to get a good start in their education. This new facility clearly demonstrates our commitment to our children and education in this province.”
The new 54-thousand square-foot facility was officially opened today with all 337 students attending along with dignitaries from the community as well as local and provincial government.
“This building is a wonderful new learning space for these young students,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Doug Currie. “We know how important it is to engage children in education early in life. This new facility will help to foster a love of learning for these students from day one.”
During the grand opening events at the new Stratford Elementary School, Premier Ghiz, Minister Currie and MLA for Stratford-Kinlock, Cynthia Dunsford, spoke to the student body and marked the day by assisting Stratford Elementary School Principal Derek McEwen with a cornerstone unveiling and a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“This is a great day for our students and staff,” said Principal McEwen. “Our students are enjoying this facility to the fullest. They especially love the music room and new technologies in the classroom. This school is living up to its design by ensuring a positive and healthy learning environment for both students and staff.”
The new Stratford Elementary School is modelled after West Royalty Elementary School. The school has 20 classrooms, state of the art music room, library, computer lab, gymnasium, multi-purpose room and space for teachers and for planning activities. It also boasts some high tech equipment in many of the classrooms including document cameras and a computer whiteboard capture technology called Mimio. Mimio devices, used in conjunction with a projector, turn an ordinary whiteboard into a fully interactive whiteboard. The final cost of the new Stratford school is $8.7 million.
A virtual tour of the new Stratford Elementary School will be available on the government website at www.gov.pe.ca/eecd.