All students from Eddies Cove to River of Ponds on the Great Northern Peninsula will soon benefit from a state-of-the-art facility. The Provincial Government has awarded the contract for $11 million to Marco Services for the construction of a new K-12 school in Port Saunders.

"The new school will allow for greater learning resources and educational opportunities for students," said the Honourable Darin King, Minister of Education. "For example, it will be possible to offer courses from our $13 million Futures in Skilled Trades and Technology high school program in the new school�s skilled trades suite. There will be a dedicated music room and an area specifically for distance education students. These are just a few examples of what�s available in a modern school."

The school will also have a multi-purpose lunch room/kitchen and canteen, a gymnasium complete with change rooms, showers and a fitness centre, a guidance room, and areas to accommodate students with diverse learning needs. There will be a computer room, science lab, library and medical room.

"This is a wonderful step forward for the students, staff, and parents in these communities," said Don Brown, chair of the Western School Board. "This new school is in keeping with the board's commitment to provide excellent educational opportunities in excellent facilities. We commend government for its commitment to education in the province, and in particular for its attention to our area."

"A new K-12 school in Port Saunders will give all students a full curriculum in every grade," said MHA Wallace Young, District of St. Barbe. "In addition, the new school has been designed to accommodate community groups and activities, which will help advance the quality of life in the region."

Minister King said that the budget for construction, repairs and maintenance for the province�s schools increased by $40 million this year to $121.5 million as reflected in Budget 2009: Building on Our Strong Foundation.

"This funding will help ensure the health, safety and first-rate education of our children," said Minister King. "Major school infrastructure projects are happening throughout the province. In fact, in the Western School District alone, approximately 50 projects are being planned or underway this year at an estimated cost of over $8 million � a clear indication that this government is taking action to improve school buildings and create the best learning environment possible for students."

Construction on the new 3,800 square metre school will begin shortly, with an anticipated opening date of fall, 2010.

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