More than $4 Million Invested in Gander Area Schools

Major infrastructure projects are transforming four schools in the Gander District — three in Gander and one in Glenwood. The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Education, visited St. Paul's Intermediate today to break ground on a new extension for the school. Minister King was joined by the Honourable Kevin O'Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs and MHA for the District of Gander.

"This project is one of many extensions and renovations taking place across the province which clearly indicates the level of infrastructure work planned or underway in our school system," said Minister King. "Gander is a growing community, popular with young families, and we must ensure we have the infrastructure in place to meet the burgeoning needs of the entire school community."

The $1.5 million extension planned for St. Paul's will include a new music room, fitness room and skilled trades suite.

An additional $2.6 million is being invested for infrastructure upgrades in several other schools in the region. Roof and building repairs have been made to Gander Collegiate and are substantially complete. A partial roof replacement and exterior repairs are underway at Gander Academy and electrical upgrades will begin this spring. As well, a roof replacement is nearing completion at Lakewood Academy in Glenwood.

"Gander is continuously growing, so these investments are certainly fantastic news," said Minister O'Brien. "It reiterates our government's commitment to improving school infrastructure and providing the best possible education for our children in communities across Newfoundland and Labrador."

Minister King said that since 2004, approximately 102 electrical upgrades, 221 roofing, and 232 other building envelop projects have been approved for a combined value of almost $100 million.

"This number of projects is extraordinary, given that we only have 279 schools in the province," said Minister King. "It is evidence of our commitment to providing quality learning environments to ensure our students have the best opportunities for success."

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2010 11 03                                                    3:00 p.m.