Education
October 23, 2006

Tender Called for Exploits Valley Intermediate

All Grand Falls�Windsor junior high school students will soon be accommodated in a single school, as a result of government�s commitment to extend and renovate Exploits Valley Intermediate � Greenwood Division. The Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Education, announced today that up to $2 million will be provided for this project.

"I know there were some concerns in Grand Falls-Windsor surrounding potential delays with this project. I am pleased to inform parents, students and teachers that the department has received all required documentation and the tender has been called. We hope to award the contract next month and will work with the contractor to ensure the renovations proceed as quickly as possible," said Minister Burke.

Once complete, students in Grades 7-9 will attend Exploits Valley Intermediate � Greenwood, allowing the board to close the Maple Division school. Students at the newly renovated facility will enjoy a new stage in the gymnasium, new change rooms, two more classrooms, a technology education suite, and a home economics room. The renovations will also provide new space for the guidance counselor, and visiting itinerant teachers and social workers. The enclosed courtyard created by the extension will be leveled off and sodded, creating a sheltered outdoor space for students and teachers. The main entrance will have a handicapped lift which will improve accessibility to the second floor.

"This project has been a priority for the school board in our multi-year restructuring plan and I�m very pleased to see the work get underway," said Thomas Kendell, chair of the Nova Central School District. "This will ensure the intermediate grades are accommodated in one building, which is important to parents, teachers, students and our community overall. On behalf of the Nova Central School Board,

I would like to thank the Minister of Education and government for

their continued commitment to the students of Central Newfoundland."

Ray Hunter, MHA for Windsor-Springdale, says the extension and renovations are good news for many students in his district. "I know that parents and students will look forward to attending the renovated and expanded school and see this as a great benefit for their overall education."

More than $37 million is being invested in infrastructure for the K-12 system this year. This includes renovations, extensions and the construction of several new schools.

Minister Burke said it�s important due diligence be carried out on all proposals, no matter how large or small the project. "The configuration of the schools in Grand Falls�Windsor have been in transition for many years and I understand everyone is ready to see the system settled and solidly in place for the future. I�m confident the funding for work to Exploits Valley Intermediate will be money well spent and will lead to improved opportunities and experiences for our students, teachers and parents."

Media contact:
Jacquelyn Howard
Director of Communications
Department of Education
709-729-0048, 689-2624
jacquelynhoward@gov.nl.ca

2006 10 23                                               11:30 a.m.


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