Construction of a new elementary school is now underway in Stratford, says Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Gerard Greenan.
“The addition of this new $8.7 million facility will address a pressing need in the growing community of Stratford,” said Minister Greenan. “It will address steadily increasing enrollments at Glen Stewart that have now surpassed the capacity of the school. It will make room for the more than 140 kindergarten students expected in September 2010. And it will support the many new and innovative learning practices now taking place at Glen Stewart and in all Island classrooms.”
The 54,000 square foot facility is being built next to the existing school. It will be used by Grades 4 to 6 students. The existing school will serve students in kindergarten to Grade 3. Construction is expected to be complete in August 2010.
With capacity for 420 students, the new school will have 20 classrooms, a music room, library, computer lab, gymnasium, multi-purpose room and offices. It will feature several energy efficiencies such as heat recovery technology and sensor driven lighting systems. The two facilities will be separated by green space and bus parking.
Principal Pat Campbell said separate configurations for primary students in kindergarten to Grade 3, and elementary students in Grades 4 to 6, works well in other areas. “We are thrilled with the prospect of having two facilities that are designed to enhance a positive and healthy learning environment for both students and staff. Our curriculum identifies the primary and elementary years as distinct and important stages of learning, so the new school organization is a natural configuration for us,” she said.
Ms. Campbell said every effort will be made to minimize the impact of the construction on student safety and learning. More information on the new school will be provided to parents as planning and construction progresses.
The Government of Prince Edward Island capital budget contains $52 million for Education and Early Childhood Development over the next five years. This year, funding of $24.8 million is being invested in capital upgrades at over 20 schools; the purchase of 40 new school buses; and construction and renovations at Montague Regional High School, Elm Street Elementary and École St-Augustin.