GOVERNMENT HOUSE LAUNCHES DISCOVERY BACKPACK PROGRAM

Minister responsible for the Provincial Capital Commission Bill Hutchinson was on hand at Government House today, with Grade 3, 4 and 5 students from Eyebrow School to participate in the launch of the Discovery Backpack Program.

"Discovery Backpacks encourage our youngest visitors to take part in an educational experience that will lead them through the 8.5 acres of beautiful Edwardian style gardens that make up the grounds," Hutchinson said. "At the same time they learn about the history of Government House, the province and Canada. With these Discovery Backpacks, children will be able to interact directly with the people, stories and artifacts that have made our province such a wonderful place to live."

The Discovery Backpacks include a variety of activities and learning tools designed to engage children in the history and role of Government House in our province. Discovery Backpacks are available with both indoor and outdoor content and are designed for preschool children through Grade 5.

"Saskatchewan has such a rich history with so many wonderful stories," teacher Jean Wilson said. "As an educator it is always exciting to introduce my students to fun new ways of learning and exploring the world around them. I think these backpacks are a great way of doing just that."

The Discovery Backpack Program is being offered to all summer visitors as part of "120 Things to Do" during Government House's 120th Anniversary. Government House is open seven days a week, from 9 am to 5 pm throughout the summer.

For more information on the Discovery Backpack Program or Government House, call 306-787-5773 or visit www.governmenthouse.gov.sk.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Jay Teneycke
Office of the Provincial capital Commission
Regina
Phone: 306-798-6095
Email: jay.teneycke@gov.sk.ca