A ribbon-cutting ceremony, unveiling of a cornerstone and presentation of keys highlighted festivities at Corner Brook Regional High today as the Honourable Premier Danny Williams, MHA for Humber West, and the Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Education, joined students, teachers, staff and the entire school community to officially open the region�s newest high school.

"This has been a major redevelopment project for our education infrastructure," said Premier Williams. "It was a long time in the making, but with the support and dedication of all those involved in this project, from the district and school administration to teachers, staff, contractors and many government employees, we have a state-of-the-art facility that will serve the students of Corner Brook and surrounding areas well into the future. It�s encouraging to see such great results from our investments in education."

Corner Brook Regional High has undergone an extensive $18 million redevelopment to accommodate students from the following communities: Corner Brook, Benoit�s Cove, Gallant�s, Humber Valley, John�s Beach, Steady Brook, Halfway Point, Mount Moriah, Little Rapid�s and Frenchman�s Cove.

"It�s wonderful to see the excitement and enthusiasm the students have for their school," said Minister Burke. "Today�s ceremonies are truly impressive and students, as well as teachers, staff and parents should be proud of the way everyone has come together in one new school community."

Students moved into the school earlier this month. "We have strength in numbers and our coming together has generated respect, maturity, and a tremendous amount of school spirit," said school council co-presidents, Reisha Knott and Sarah Woodland. "It is a fantastic facility that will only strengthen and enhance student learning".

Today�s opening ceremonies included performances by the school choir, house band and concert band. Also attending were the Honourable Tom Marshall, MHA for Humber East; Terry Loder, MHA for Bay of Islands; and, Donald Brown, Chair of the Western School District.

"Throughout Newfoundland and Labrador we are building new schools and renovating existing buildings to ensure the highest quality learning opportunities for our students," said Minister Burke. "We have allocated $121 million for this upcoming year alone for major school construction, maintenance and repair. Our goal is to ensure students throughout the province, like those in the Corner Brook area, are provided with facilities and resources that will prepare them for success."

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