Students, staff and community members gathered today at the new Elm Street Elementary School gymnasium to celebrate the official opening of a new $5 million addition to their school.
Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Gerard Greenan says this investment by the provincial government has met a pressing need for Elm Street students and staff. “The modern gymnasium is a great improvement over the previous one,” he said. “Students now have a modern, safe and spacious gym area where they can participate in more physical education activities. Overall programming in the school has also been greatly enhanced by many new spaces for learning and a safer and healthier learning environment.”
The 10,400 square foot addition includes a double elementary gymnasium with a full size basketball court, bleachers, washrooms, change rooms, instructor’s office, mezzanine and gym storage space. It also features three new classrooms, library, computer room, music room, four specialist rooms and a special education classroom.
As part of the project, the existing school received a new air handling system, new ceilings and lighting, sprinkler system upgrades and washroom renovations. Outside improvements include a new parking lot with improved bussing areas and traffic flow, sidewalks, an enclosed courtyard, elevator, new entrance and lobby area. The exterior of the school was enhanced through a new fascia, windows and siding.
Gary Doucette, Western School Board Chair, said the Elm Street project has been the top capital priority of the Western School Board. “The completion of this major project is well worth celebrating,” he said. “The new space and many improvements have added greatly to the school environment and they are making it easier for staff to deliver new and improved curriculum and programming.”
Principal Tracy Beaulieu acknowledged the support of students, staff and parents during the construction period. “While some disruptions were unavoidable, the completion of this major project was well worth the wait because it has made our great school even better.”
Over 400 students attend Elm Street Elementary School. Of these, 267 are in French Immersion and 171 are in English programs.