Improvements Made to Terra Nova Schools

Five schools in the District of Terra Nova will see major upgrades this year with an investment of approximately $700,000 from the Provincial Government. The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Education, announced the projects today as part of the $113.5 million for K-12 infrastructure announced in Budget 2010: The Right Investments - For Our Children and Our Future.

"We often hear about the 13 new schools that are in various stages of planning or construction process," said Minister King. "But equally important is work that is carried on every day to make our schools quality learning environments. Our students spend most of their day in school and it is imperative they are in classrooms that are conducive to learning."

Charlottetown Primary is getting new roof shingles and Glovertown Academy is having its metal siding replaced. Jane Collins Academy in Hare Bay will receive a partial roof replacement and some new windows and siding. St. Gabriel's All-Grade is having repairs made to the crawl space, while William Mercer Academy in Dover will have a partial roof replacement.

"The work that is being undertaken in the schools to improve the learning experience for students is appreciated and welcome," said Sandy Collins, MHA for Terra Nova. "It clearly demonstrates the commitment of this government to ensure students have the resources and opportunities, no matter where they live in this province, to receive an excellent education."

Since 2005, our educational investments in Newfoundland and Labrador have been unprecedented with more than $1.3 billion allocated for education this year alone.

"Our expenditures in education are the most our province has seen in 50 years," said Minister King. "We are making these investments because we recognize that the more educated a population we have, the more opportunities there will be for the success of individuals, families and communities, as well as our province as a whole."

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2010 08 12                                                    2:10 p.m.