BUENA VISTA PLANS FOR SCHOOL UPGRADES AND RESTORATIONS

Construction on a major upgrade and restoration will begin this summer at Buena Vista Elementary School in Saskatoon and should be completed by December 2003. The Saskatchewan government is contributing $472,000 to this $910,000 project, sharing the cost with the Saskatoon Public School Division.

"We are investing in schools, in students, and in the future of Saskatchewan," Learning Minister Judy Junor said. "The Buena Vista Elementary School has served students well for nearly a century. However, the time has come to provide an upgraded educational facility."

Phase one of the project includes structural enhancements to the school as well as roof replacement. Phase two, which is planned to follow shortly after, will complete the restoration of Buena Vista School.

"We're pleased about the upgrade and restorations at our school," Saskatoon Public School Division Board Chair Gordon Wyant said. "Once phase one of the project is complete, it will significantly improve the educational environment for students in our community. We look forward to continuing on with phase two and completing the project."

With the $36 million in the Saskatchewan Learning K-12 capital budget, which includes $4.6 million from the Centenary Fund, approximately 140 K-12 school construction, renovation or upgrading projects will be funded in communities around the province this year.

"This project is part of the government's commitment to invest in modern,
well-equipped learning facilities for Saskatchewan students," Junor said. "Investing in education enriches our communities and ensures a wide open future for Saskatchewan students."

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For More Information, Contact:

Nelson Wagner Learning Regina Phone: (306)787-6040