Junior high and high school students in the Mobile area are beginning their winter term today in a new, $9.3 million school. The new facility will serve 261 students from Grades 7 � 12.

"This is a great investment in our students and our rural communities that will make sure the needs of Mobile and the surrounding areas are served well into the future," said the Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Education. "There will certainly be a buzz of excitement in and around Mobile Central High School as students and teachers settle into their new surroundings and over the coming weeks, take advantage of everything the school has to offer."

The largest phase of the construction project is near completion. Students will immediately occupy the classroom wing, which includes the resource centre. It is expected that the remaining work to be done, including the gymnasium wing, will be finished by the end of January.

"I understand that the school community has been eager to move into the new building and I�m pleased this can be accommodated for the start of the winter term. This school is a wonderful example of the modern and relevant learning opportunities being provided to students in our province today and the tremendous importance our government places on all aspects of our education system," said Minister Burke.

The new Mobile Central High School offers a science laboratory, a skilled trades and technology suite, specially-designed facilities for students with physical disabilities, a guidance centre, a modern library resource centre, a fitness centre, a gymnasium, an art room, lunch room and music room. The school also houses a full mechanical ventilation system to ensure the comfort and safety of students and teachers.

Darrin Pike, acting CEO/Director of Education for the Eastern School District, said the new modern Mobile high school will provide enhanced programming opportunities for students in the Mobile area. "The opening of this new educational facility has been much anticipated by students and teachers, and we acknowledge the efforts of government, the school council and the entire school community in support of this project."

Keith Hutchings, MHA for Ferryland, and graduate of Mobile Central High School, said today the school is a strong signal of the Provincial Government�s commitment to the youth of the Mobile area and to the region�s continuous development. "It was indeed a pleasure to recently tour the new facility and realize the important role it will play for current and future students of Mobile Central High. Our youth will have access to a state-of-the-art learning facility providing enrichment in academics, the arts, and physical development. These are all recognized attributes of the Southern Shore. This new school will bridge the success and history of the former school to the new opportunities for future graduates of Mobile Central High."

Since 2004, the Williams Government has allocated $111 million for school construction and maintenance. "We are making unprecedented investments in school infrastructure throughout Newfoundland and Labrador," said Minister Burke. "This is translating into an improved infrastructure system that supports our diverse curriculum. We will continue to make all aspects of the education system a priority to ensure the future prosperity of our students and province."

-30-

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