Education announcements made for Gander, Botwood

Education Minister Joan Burke today provided details on two school construction projects for central Newfoundland. Significant work will begin in the coming weeks on extensions and renovations to both Gander Collegiate in Gander and Botwood Collegiate in Botwood.

"Once complete, students and teachers of Gander Collegiate will see major improvements to their school," said Minister Burke. "Two extensions will be added which will greatly enhance programming opportunities and provide an expanded curriculum to the students. One extension will consist of home economics and skilled trades and technology suites, as well as new classrooms. The second extension will house a new music room. The renovations will also provide a new fitness centre and classroom space."

Minister Kevin O�Brien, MHA for the District of Gander said, "I am quite proud to have been part of the process that has lead to this important investment for the students of Gander. This demonstrates our government's commitment to education and to providing necessary resources for our young people."

Minister Burke also provided details on renovations to the school in Botwood. "With the expansion, much needed space will be created for technology education courses as well as a larger lunchroom and a stage to teach theatre arts courses. Students at Botwood and Gander Collegiate will benefit directly from these infrastructure projects," said the minister.

Clayton Forsey is very pleased with the investment in the educational infrastructure in the Exploits District, especially the extension to Botwood Collegiate. "This will result in the establishment of the skilled trades pilot project, and I encourage high school students to take a serious look at this new program and sign up for the pilot courses," said the MHA for the Exploits District.

In Budget 2006, government committed $37.5 million for infrastructure needs in the K-12 system, including on-going maintenance projects, new school construction and re-development projects. "We recognize that education is critical to the growth and prosperity of our province and requires strategic investments and resources. This will help to ensure our students achieve their individual goals and contribute to the overall success of our province."

Tenders for the extension and renovations to both Botwood Collegiate and Gander Collegiate will be awarded shortly. Construction on the projects will begin over the summer and is expected to be complete in the fall.

Media contact: Nora Daly, Communications, (709) 729-1906, 728-2819

2006 07 13                                                   12:00 noon