West Kent Elementary School in Charlottetown is a fine example of a school that serves its students and community, said Education Minister Jeffrey E. Lantz.
"I had an opportunity to visit the school earlier this week and participate in a tree planting ceremony," the Minister said. "The school community wanted to recognize and say good-bye to the students who will be attending the new elementary school in West Royalty in September. While the student population will decrease at West Kent in September, the school itself will remain a vital link in the community."
School improvements over the summer months will include new windows, painting, new bathrooms, as well as other refurbishing.
"We recognize the important role this school has played in the community," said Minister Lantz. "It will continue to serve the students well with a quality education program and we hope it will be utilized as a community facility during after-school hours."
Eastern School District Superintendent Dave McCabe agreed with the Minister.
"West Kent is an outstanding elementary school," said McCabe. "The Eastern School District looks forward to working with parents, teachers, students and the community to maintain and enhance the outstanding experience students have always received at West Kent."
Parent Gail MacEachern welcomed the commitment.
"The parents of students at West Kent have been lobbying the government and the school board for many months," said MacEachern. "We are pleased that the Minister of Education and the Eastern School District are committed to the prosperity of our school. Parents see what has happened thus far as a beginning, and look forward to continued collaboration with all parties over the summer months to establish a long-term plan for West Kent."
"The future of both the school and the community lies in the ability to work together creatively and cooperatively to establish and achieve a new vision for West Kent School," said MacEachern.