NB 780
June 18, 2007
CAMBRIDGE-NARROWS (CNB) - Through the Department of Education's community schools initiative, Cambridge-Narrows School has been designated a community school, Education Minister Kelly Lamrock announced today.
"Engaging communities and partners in improving schools is essential to the success of When Kids Come First," Lamrock said. "Currently, there are a number of successful projects underway, in both the francophone and anglophone sectors, where schools are partnering with the community and drawing on their resources to improve learning."
A community school encourages the community to become more active in the life of a school and in assisting kids to learn. It also helps kids to develop a sense of belonging and commitment to their community. In the francophone sector, this initiative also helps kids to build their cultural and linguistic identity.
Community schools use community resources such as volunteer groups, parents, public services and recreational and cultural opportunities to turn a school into a centre of opportunity for children, youth, families and communities before, during and after school hours.
As part of Cambridge-Narrows' designation as a community school, the Regional Development Corporation will provide $10,000 for technology infrastructure and the Department of Education will provide School District 17 with one staff person to serve as a community schools facilitator to ensure support for the programs that will be offered at the school. These investments are in addition to the community partnerships that will be established at Cambridge-Narrows School.
"The people of Cambridge-Narrows recognize the important role their school plays in their community," said Supply and Services Minister Roly MacIntyre, Minister for the Regional Development Corporation. "With a strong community involvement, Cambridge-Narrows School will transform into a community centre of learning that will provide a full and diverse learning experience for everyone, but most of all our kids."
During the 2007-2008 school year, the Department of Education will invest $2.5 million toward the establishment of up to 15 community schools. By 2012 the department projects to have a total of 75 community schools across New Brunswick.
In mid July, the department will be asking school districts to begin identifying other potential community schools.
07/06/18
MEDIA CONTACTS: Jason Humphrey or Angélique Binet, communications, Education, 506- 444-4714; Bruce Macfarlane, Regional Development Corporation, 506-444-4606.
07/06/18
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