June 15, 2010
First Two Neighbourhood Learning Centres Break Ground

REVELSTOKE - A groundbreaking ceremony marked the official start of construction on the Province's first two Neighbourhood Learning Centres, which will feature a performing arts centre, early-learning hub, youth programs, gymnastics facilities and medical services for students and families, Education Minister Margaret MacDiarmid announced today.

"Revelstoke is leading the way by showcasing some of the tremendous opportunities Neighbourhood Learning Centres can bring to B.C. communities," said MacDiarmid. "Health, recreation and lifelong learning services will come together at these schools, serving people of all ages."

The Neighbourhood Learning Centre at the new Revelstoke Secondary will include a 275-seat community theatre and co-ordinated health services aimed at vulnerable teens. The new Revelstoke Elementary will incorporate medical and dental services, literacy and community programs, and a gymnastics centre as part of its Neighbourhood Learning Centre. In addition, the school will become B.C's first early learning hub with a StrongStart BC program, two state-of- the-art childcare centres, an early learning library, and a child-care resource and referral program on site.

"As well as providing a range of facilities, programs and services, these new Neighbourhood Learning Centres will champion the latest standards in green school construction," said MacDiarmid. "The energy-efficient designs of both school buildings will help save costs, minimize the carbon footprint, and foster a healthy environment for students, staff and community members."

An agreement has been reached with Revelstoke Community Energy Corporation to provide energy for both new schools. The schools will be designed and constructed to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification and will use heat from a renewable source. Wood products will be used extensively in the construction of these schools.

"Community engagement has been key to seeing these projects come together," said Revelstoke board chair Alan Chell. "We consulted widely with a range of partners and pursued every available opportunity to ensure these Neighbourhood Learning Centres would provide the greatest value for the people of Revelstoke."

Revelstoke Elementary is expected to open in the fall of 2011, with Revelstoke Secondary to follow in early 2012.

The Province has announced 14 Neighbourhood Learning Centres in 10 school districts across B.C. All districts are being encouraged to move towards this inclusive approach to planning the use of school space and including elements of Neighbourhood Learning Centres in all schools.

The Neighbourhood Learning Centre website, www.neighbourhoods-of-learning.gov.bc.ca includes examples of some of the community services and programs already offered in schools around B.C. Visitors to the site can create their own virtual centres using an interactive program.

Since 2001, the Province has spent more than $1.7 billion to complete 80 new and replacement schools, 148 additions, 26 renovation projects and 22 site acquisitions across B.C. All new and replacement schools have been constructed to the latest seismic standards. By the end of 2009-10, the Province will have committed more than $3.8 billion in school capital and maintenance projects.

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