FUNDING FOR SCHOOL RENOVATION IN MAPLE CREEK

Released on April 12, 2005

The Government of Saskatchewan is investing $355,000 for portable classrooms at the Maple Creek Composite High School plus approximately $25,000 for preliminary planning of major school renovations.

"When we invest in capital projects for education we are investing in our students and in the future of Saskatchewan," Learning Minister Andrew Thomson said. "The government's contribution to this project demonstrates our commitment to education and to providing modern, well-equipped learning facilities for Saskatchewan students and teachers."

Renovation costs, which will be shared with the Maple Creek School Division, are estimated at $3 million and will be confirmed in this planning phase.

"The school board is looking forward to building a facility that will serve the educational needs of children and youth in the Maple Creek area for many years to come," Maple Creek School Division Board Chair Donna Maier said.

This investment will fund the construction of four portable classrooms to be attached to the Maple Creek Composite High School. The new classrooms will allow the school division to restructure the grades at the Sidney Street Elementary School from K-7 to K-5 and the high school from grades 8-12 to grades 6-12, improving education programming and using resources more effectively.

"Schools are vital centres of our communities," Thomson said. "We need to upgrade and renew our learning facilities so they can continue to serve Saskatchewan residents well."

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

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