Premier Robert Ghiz announced today that Government has accepted the capital construction recommendations of the Eastern School District. Construction will immediately begin on a new Grade 4 to 6 facility at Glen Stewart Elementary in Stratford and a new Kindergarten wing at Westwood Primary School in Cornwall. In addition, planning will begin for the construction of a new early childhood to Grade 12 school in Souris.
“Since coming into office, our Government has placed the education of our students at the top of our priority list,” said Premier Ghiz. “The decision to move forward with these much-needed capital investments was made on the recommendation of the Eastern School District after significant consultation and consideration. I am confident that moving forward with these plans will ensure that all Island children have access to the best possible education.”
Government has approved in principle a request from the Eastern School District to build a new early childhood to Grade 12 school in Souris to accommodate 625 students. Planning will begin immediately to determine the full scope of this project.
Glen Stewart Elementary and Westwood Primary will see immediate changes.
“Government is pleased to support the Eastern School District request for urgently needed space at Glen Stewart and Westwood,” said Minister Greenan. “This $11 million investment will allow these schools to be ready for Kindergarten in 2010, and it will mean that the size of the Glen Stewart facilities will be more appropriate for primary and elementary students.”
A new 54,000 square foot facility will be built for grades 4 to 6 students at Glen Stewart next to the existing school. It will have capacity for 420 students. The existing school will serve students in Kindergarten to Grade 3.
The estimated cost of the new school is $8.7 million. It will be built using the design of the West Royalty Elementary School. This will save time and allow for construction to be completed by 2010.
Glen Stewart Elementary School was built in 1975 to accommodate 600 students. The expected enrollment for 2009-2010 is 666 students. Approximately 140 Grade 1 students are expected this fall, compared to 101 students last year. Temporary classrooms will be added to meet interim space needs.
The $2.4 million addition to Westwood Primary School will accommodate 160 students who will begin Kindergarten at the school in September 2010. The new addition will include 11 Kindergarten classrooms.