News Release

KEDGWICK (GNB) - Renovation work valued at nearly $10.3 million is continuing at École Marie-Gaétane in Kedgwick in order to accommodate all of the region’s students in kindergarten to Grade 12 starting in January 2019.

“Your government understands that investing in education is essential for New Brunswick’s economy and families,” said Premier Brian Gallant. “We are continuing to make strategic investments in order to meet the needs of our current and future students.”

The school was built in 1974 and currently has 131 students in Grades 8 to 12. The project, which is part of the reorganization of schools in the Kedgwick area, involves making additions so it can accommodate the students from kindergarten to Grade 7 now attending École Écho-Jeunesse.

The work includes exterior and interior renovations, including the development of a workshop, the addition of classrooms and a music room, and expanding the gym. Once the work is completed the school will be able to accommodate about 300 students.

“Your government is listening to the needs of New Brunswickers and understands that education is one of their priorities,” said Labour, Employment and Population Growth Minister Gilles LePage. “The work being done at École Marie-Gaétane will make it possible to better meet the needs of local students and provide them with the best possible learning environment.”

LePage spoke on behalf of Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Brian Kenny.

The work is scheduled to be completed by December. More than $5.2 million of the project cost is being invested as part of the 2018-19 capital budget.

Close to $106 million will be invested in public schools in 2018-19.

The government’s 10-year education plans aim to improve educational outcomes and better prepare young people for the future. They set objectives in key priority areas to create lifelong learners, support educational leaders and bring stability to the system.