December 17, 2013
Province Announces Upgrades to St. James Collegiate
– – –New Elevator, Renovated Science Labs will Enhance Accessibility, Provide High-quality Science Education with Latest Technologies: Allum
Students at St. James Collegiate are benefiting from two newly renovated science labs and other upgrades that will provide them with hands-on learning opportunities in modern science labs equipped with the latest technology and enhanced accessibility, Education and Advanced Learning Minister James Allum announced today.
“We want our kids to have access to the latest technology and hands-on learning opportunities in modern science labs to provide them with a solid foundation in science and opportunities to pursue further studies or careers in that field,” said Minister Allum. “This is part of our Science Education Action Strategy which has seen a total of 45 science labs completed or currently under renovation across the province.”
The province provided over $2.4 million in funding to renovate two science classrooms, install a new elevator and complete upgrades to the school campus. The two new science labs are now in use and are part of the province’s $25-million Science Action Plan, which ensures students have access to the best labs and equipment and are taught according to a continually updated science curriculum. The plan also offers new opportunities for science teachers to keep on top of changes in science and technology education, the minister said.
He also announced the construction of a new two-and-a-half storey, three-stop elevator that will improve accessibility for students with disabilities alongside entrance upgrades, a new ramp and modified washroom, which is equipped with bathing and laundry facilities, and a change and physiotherapy table.
“Students with disabilities should not have to face barriers to achievement,” said Minister Allum. “These upgrades help to improve accessibility, independence and social inclusion for students who may face mobility issues and will help us reach the long-term goal of making Manitoba accessible for everyone.”
The new elevator is expected to be fully operational in January 2014.
Earlier this year, construction was also completed on an asphalt running track that will benefit students, community centre users and residents in the neighbouring seniors housing complex. The running track includes an asphalt basketball court, sand volleyball pit, long-jump pit, two soccer pitches and an irrigation system.
“Our newly renovated science labs are already engaging students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and our track-and-field upgrades will make our grounds safer for everyone who uses them, from seniors to middle-years students from George Waters Middle School,” said collegiate principal Kevin Dueck. “Perhaps, most importantly, recent elevator, door and ramp upgrades are helping to make our community school more accessible to everyone.”
The St. James Collegiate complex houses grades 9 to 12 in addition to grades 6 to 8 at George Waters Middle School.
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