February 26, 2015
Manitoba Government Announces Smaller Classes, New Gym Major Project to Begin Construction at Lord Nelson School
– – –Investments Important Part of Academic Success: Minister Bjornson
Students at Lord Nelson School will soon benefit from a new gym and classroom addition made possible through provincial investments in Manitoba schools, Education and Advanced Learning Minister Peter Bjornson announced today.
"The Manitoba government recognizes the important role sustained investments in our schools plays in improving student engagement and achievement,” said Minister Bjornson. “Parents know the difference smaller classes will have for their kids and a healthy, active lifestyle is an important part of academic success. This new gym will ensure students have positive health habits that will last throughout their lives.”
Today’s sod-turning for the new 4,200-sq.-ft. gymand two 1,000-sq.-ft. classrooms will lead to the addition of 9,540 sq. ft. of new spaceto the nursery to Grade 6 school. The Manitoba government is providing more than $4.4 million in funding for the project, the minister said, adding Red Lake Construction will undertake this major capital project, which is expected to be complete by fall 2016.
“The new gym will enhance the learning environment for Lord Nelson students and allow for more participation in sports and recreational activities that promote a healthy school community,” said Mark Wasyliw, chair, board of trustees, Winnipeg School Division.
“Lord Nelson School students, staff and the community are delighted the construction of our new gymnasium and early years’ classrooms is about to begin,” said Sandy Stevenson, principal. “Our new gymnasium is targeted for LEED Silver designation and will provide students with many great opportunities to learn and play during class time and after school, and give our community a state-of-the-art facility for evening activities and events.”
“We’re pleased to be working with the Lord Nelson School community towards the health and well-being of students here,” said Minister Bjornson. “This major construction project will also strengthen our economy by providing good quality jobs for Manitoba families. We will continue to invest in student success and schools while rejecting reckless cuts that others have called for, which would mean larger classes and teacher layoff.”
Since 1999, the Manitoba government has invested over $1 billion in public school capital projects to build and maintain new schools, gyms, science labs and child-care centres, and to ensure smaller classes.
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