CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON NEW ST. MARY COMMUNITY SCHOOL

Students, staff and community partners joined Education Minister Donna Harpauer today, to celebrate the kick off of construction for the new St. Mary's Community School.

"I am pleased to be part of a project that brings together students, educators and the community," Harpauer said. "Providing high-quality learning opportunities is a priority for the Government of Saskatchewan. The new St. Mary School will be a comfortable and attractive learning environment that supports continued student achievement."

The planned 4,900 square meter facility will provide programming for students from Prekindergarten to grade eight. Many unique and interesting features are being incorporated into the design of the building including well-equipped facilities for up to 50 childcare spaces, a walking track, dedicated visual and practical arts spaces, and a wellness center with a pediatric clinic.

The new St. Mary's Community School will be built to meet LEED Silver Certification standards. Earth-friendly waste management and energy efficient design features will minimize environmental impact and help support student learning and achievement well into the future.

"St. Mary's Community School has long been a leader in showing how authentic involvement of parents, caregivers and a broad range of community partners can lead to direct benefits for students," Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools Board of Education Chair Diane Boyko said. "Our new facility will continue to take a holistic approach to wellness and education, focusing on the spiritual, emotional, physical and intellectual development of our students."

The project is estimated to cost approximately $15.5 million, with the Government of Saskatchewan contribution of $10.1 million. Construction is expected to begin this fall with the new school opening to students in March 2012.

Over the past two years, the Government of Saskatchewan has committed $342 million to move forward 29 major capital projects and has approved approximately 440 block projects across the province since December 2007.

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For more information, contact:

Donella Hoffman
Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-659-7077
Email: dhoffman@gscs.sk.ca

Ryan Mulatz
Ministry of Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2954
Email: Ryan.Mulatz@gov.sk.ca