Students, teachers, parents, community members, representatives of the Western School Board and the provincial government participated in the official ground breaking ceremony at Miscouche Consolidated School this afternoon. Work began on the $2.2 million addition/renovation project this week.
Premier Binns participated in the ceremony and said this latest school construction project illustrates government's commitment to education and strong Island communities.
"Our government places a high value on learning," said Premier Binns. "In addition to providing the resources for school curriculum and staffing, we know it is vital to provide learning spaces that meet the needs of students, teachers and the community. Our Island schools are at the heart of our strong sense of community pride in this province."
The capital construction project includes an addition which will house two classrooms, a library/resource center, a computer lab and a music/multi-purpose room. Renovation work in the existing school includes new ventilation and gymnasium upgrading.
The Honourable Jeffrey E. Lantz, Minister of Education, said the new addition and renovation work will provide a high quality, healthy learning environment for students and school staff.
"The new space, combined with improvements in the existing school structure, will improve the learning environment for Island children," said Minister Lantz. "All of the project's partners, the Government of Prince Edward Island, the Western School Board and the community, have worked hard to see this project happen."
The Government of Prince Edward Island began its Capital Construction and Renovation Plan for schools in 1997/98. The plan is a multi-year strategy to enhance the infrastructure of 10 Island schools and also provide for the on-going capital maintenance of all Island schools.
Speaking on behalf of the Western School Board, Chairperson Lorraine Robinson said, "The Board is very appreciative of this fulfillment of the government's commitment to address the substantial facilities needs of Miscouche Consolidated School. This addition and renovation of the facility has been a long time coming, but this school, which is located in one of the fastest growing communities within our Board, will be well equipped to address the present and future needs of children. We look forward to the official opening of the new addition in 2002."
School principal Doug MacDougall said the students at Miscouche Consolidated, a grade 1-9 school, were pleased to be a part of the day's event.
"Our students and staff are looking forward to watching the construction progress," said Mr. MacDougall. "We know these improvements to our school will make it an even better learning environment for generations to come."
The architect for the project is William W. Chandler Architects Inc. The general contractor is Schurman Construction Ltd.