PROVINCE UNVEILS 16 SCHOOL CAPITAL PROJECTS

Today, Education Minister Ken Krawetz unveiled 16 school capital projects in 10 communities that will be moving forward thanks to the $61 million infrastructure infusion for Saskatchewan schools included in the Government of Saskatchewan's 2009-10 budget.

"We know that high quality school facilities support student achievement," Krawetz said. "We also want to keep Saskatchewan's economy strong and steady. By moving forward on much needed infrastructure projects, we are helping both our children and youth and our economy."

With today's announcement, two school capital projects are receiving approval-in-principle status. These include Regina Public Schools' new school project to serve the Wascana Community School and area and the Conseil des écoles fransaskoises high school project to be located in Regina. Capital projects receiving approval-in-principle status enter a community consultation phase that results in an improved facility, ensuring that the unique needs of the community are reflected.

"Regina Public Schools looks forward to working with its communities and partners to develop new schools that complement teaching and learning," Regina Board of Education chairperson Barbara Young said. "Today's announcement will help us continue building toward enhancing quality teaching and student outcomes."

The projects include the building of new roofs, the addition of relocatable classrooms and a variety of upgrades including improving accessibility, air quality, asbestos remediation and electrical.

Over the past two years, the Government of Saskatchewan has invested over $320 million in PreK-12 school infrastructure across the province. To date, these funds have moved forward 20 major school capital projects and approximately 150 school renovation projects.

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For more information, contact:

Jacquie McLean
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5609
Email: jacquie.mclean@gov.sk.ca