Chignecto-Central Schools Another Step Closer

New schools needed in Chignecto-Central are another step closer today.

In the first stage, interested companies were short-listed. Now in stage two, the short-listed groups are preparing detailed proposals to build three schools across the region.

A regional team -- including government officials and six Chignecto-Central Regional School Board representatives -- evaluated 11 submissions, and narrowed the list to four groups. The short-listed groups are: Access Technologies; Armoyan Group; Ashford Investments; and SAC Laval in.

"We urgently need schools, and - with a highly competitive field

• we're on target to deliver good schools, within budget, as quickly as interested companies can build them," Education and Culture Minister Robbie Harrison said.

The three schools identified as priorities by the Chignecto-Central Regional School Board are: Enfield Elementary; Pictou Elementary; and Stellarton Complex. Once a partner is selected for each region, the partner will work closely with government, school boards and communities on project details.

Work is already under way in this second stage. Proposal requirements include a detailed vision, budget, financing and leasing arrangements, and plans for community consultation and timely school construction. Companies must submit detailed proposals by July 31. In all cases, leases will be signed before construction begins.

"Each interested group knows we want to see urgently-needed schools open as quickly as possible," Mr. Harrison said. "We expect our partners to deliver."

In addition to the 31 new schools announced in December 1997, six additional schools are already being planned or under construction, including Hants East Middle, Hants East Elementary and Amherst High. As well, the Department of Education and Culture is working with school boards on renovation projects.