The Ministry of Education announced plans to modernize J.C. Charyk.
J.C. Charyk School’s mechanical and electrical systems will be upgraded. The school will also be configured to accommodate the addition of K- 3 students from Hanna primary School, which is slated to be demolished," announced the department.
photo courtesy Jackie Gold, Hanna Herald Editor
"We're really excited about the opportunity to invest in rural Alberta," Johnson said.
“This school modernization project reinforces our commitment to invest in Alberta’s families and communities. We are making certain
that students and communities,today and long into the future,have the world-class school facilities they need to learn and be successful,” said Premier Alison Redford about the project.
"Under our Building Alberta Plan, we are working hard to make our education system more student-centred and responsive to the needs
of kids and their communities. Modern facilities are essential to achieving the goals of Inspiring Education and will help ensure that Alberta’s students receive a world-class education," added Johnson.
He said while the ministry didn't like to give an exact budget, for fear of boosting contractor prices, he believed the investment would be "well over $10 million."
He said the school will be "completely modernized and modified to be more suitable."
Board reaction to the news was mixed with returning Chairperson Ed Brinkman noting he was excited about the announcement.
"It is exciting that the provincial government is investing in our children's education," agreed Vice Chairperson Marsha Tkach.
"This will allow us to educate the children of Hanna in a building that is safe and sound, and meets the needs of our community."
Newly elected Hanna Trustee Jada Hill wasn't as sold on the announcement.
"I was very disappointed to hear the news of the JC Charyk and Hanna Primary school amalgamation," Hill said.
"The previous Board approved this motion, and as such there is little I can do to change it."
"I appreciate the recognition shown by the Minister of the need for funding for our Hanna schools, however I disagree with the purposed amalgamation"
"If it is determined that in the end, this is the only way in which we are to go, I will see to it that the safety and education of our students remain our top priority. Despite any challenges it is my goal to ensure that the quality education, core values, and learning environment that we have today is not compromised through this process."
Johnson said the ministry expected work on the project to begin right away, as they hoped to have the building fully done and ready to accomodate kids from both schools by the 2016/17 school year.
photo courtesy Jackie Gold, Hanna Herald Editor
