NB 893
June 13, 2008
FREDERICTON (CNB) - Geary Elementary School in District 17 has been designated a community school, Education Minister Kelly Lamrock announced today.
The school has a number of partnerships in place with local businesses, volunteers, residents, various levels of government and other organizations, all designed to enhance a culture of learning and student development. These include equipment support for special needs students, hot lunch and breakfast programs, an anti-bullying program, and numerous initiatives for sports, drama, music, nature, and other learning programs.
"Geary Community School's long history of community involvement and engagement makes it an ideal example of a vibrant community school," Lamrock said. "Many of these initiatives were put in place as the result of school officials identifying specific student needs, and this is the type of vision and dedication by our educators that will help us reach our goal of building the best education system in the country."
A community school encourages the community to become more active in the life of a school and in helping children learn. It also helps children develop a sense of belonging and commitment to their community.
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.
To date, 32 schools from both the anglophone and francophone sectors have been designated as community schools. In the 2008-09 school year, the Department of Education will invest $3.3 million in the community schools initiative.
The Community Schools initiative, and the other 140 specific actions outlined in When Kids Come First, will advance the Province of New Brunswick toward its objective of building the best education system in the country.
08/06/13
MEDIA CONTACT: Lisa Harrity, Education, 506-444-4714.
08/06/13