Ministry approves addition to Central Algoma Elementary School

NEWS RELEASE
ALGOMA DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
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EDITOR'S NOTE: The following news release has been revised by the ADSB

The Algoma District School Board (ADSB) has received final approval from the Ministry of Education and can now complete the tendering process for the addition at Central Algoma Elementary School (CAES). The addition will accommodate the remaining students from Arthur Henderson Public School as well as a child care centre in partnership with the Algoma District Services Administration Board (ADSAB). With this committed investment by the Ontario government, the five classroom addition will include modern learning spaces similar to those in other schools around the province. After extensive planning, this approval to proceed will now allow Board personnel to move forward with the tendering process in order to secure a contractor for the project.

This site also includes plans to become a true community hub to utilize public assets effectively within our communities as there will be a four room child care centre within the school building. Director of Education, Lucia Reece, extended thanks to Nancy MacLean, Director of Social Planning and Keith Bell, CAO of the ADSAB for their vision and support for the child care centre, which will provide a valuable service to families in the area.

Algoma District School Board Chair Jennifer Sarlo shared “This funding announcement is great news for our Board. The Ministry of Education has affirmed our vision for schools in Central Algoma that will effectively serve our students well into the future. The plan to create a daycare hub on site aligns well with the Ministry’s vision of establishing partnerships with community groups to maximize efficiencies that benefit both a community and our students. Thank you to our Administration, Plant Department and ADSAB partners for their perseverance. We appreciate the patience of our families as we have worked through this process and we look forward to getting to work on making our vision a reality.”

“Our government is pleased to be investing in the Desbarats’ school community,” said Education Minister Stephen Lecce. “The addition is good news for local students, who will benefit from a modern learning environment, and the child care centre will mean more accessibility and better choice in child care for local parents.”

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