October 9, 2014
Manitoba Government Commits to Rebuilding Classrooms, Daycare, School Space Destroyed in Fire
– – –Portable Classrooms, Rebuilding Plans, Moving Forward Quickly: Premier Selinger
THE PAS—The Manitoba government will rebuild the school and daycare space following the devastating fire that destroyed a large section of the Mary Duncan School a few weeks ago, Premier Greg Selinger announced here today.
“Communities have a way of pulling together during the toughest of times and rising above. That’s exactly what’s happening here. By working together, we will move as quickly as possible to ensure that students not only have a permanent place for quality education but a place of community pride and spirit,” said Premier Selinger.
Work is beginning immediately to prepare foundations and electrical for five portable classrooms that will arrive as soon as the foundations are in place. The Manitoba government has been working closely with the local school division on plans to rebuild the damage as quickly as possible.
“The school division is very appreciative of the response from the local fire departments, the community and the Department of Education and for their support during this difficult time. It has helped the students and staff begin the process of moving forward. Plans are being developed to rebuild, but in the meantime the school programs will continue with the grades 5 to 12 students staying at the Guy Hall until portable classrooms are in place,” said Doug Long, superintendent, Kelsey School Division.
Currently, 55 school-age students and staff have resumed studies at Guy Hall, which is part of the local church. These students and staff will use the centre area and four office spaces as temporary accommodation. The daycare affected by the fire now has accommodations in the same church basement. The adult learning centre has been temporarily relocated to the University College of the North.
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