News Release Archive
EDUCATION/CULTURE--PORTERS LAKE-LAKE ECHO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ------------------------------------------------------------ The Porters Lake-Lake Echo Elementary School will be one of the most technologically advanced schools in the province when it opens its doors in 1997. Education and Culture Minister John MacEachern today announced Nova Learning Futures Inc. will be the private sector partner for the project. "This is a very exciting project for a number of reasons," said Mr. MacEachern. "One, its another example of doing more through partnerships and secondly, it will expose students to the latest technology and prepare them for a future defined by technology and change." The Halifax-based consortium brings together development experts Fairwyn Developments Ltd. with industry leaders Lyndon Lynch Architects and Ellis-Don Atlantic Ltd. Educational consultants Interaccess Consulting are also involved along with management consultants Deloitte and Touche. SHL Systemhouse will spearhead the technology component of the project. The consortium will now develop an agreement with the province to design, construct, finance and operate the new school. Mr. MacEachern said the school will use technology to enhance classroom learning and to give students the skills needed to cope and excel in high school and beyond. As part of the agreement, Nova Learning Futures will keep leading edge technology in the school by upgrading, expanding, or replacing technology. Mr. MacEachern praised the school board for its willingness to pioneer the unique concept. With two schools under construction through private/public partnerships, Nova Scotia is drawing national attention. He said such partnerships can often speed up school construction and stimulate job creation. The Department of Education and Culture currently funds school construction and then turns schools over to school boards to operate and maintain. The department, Halifax County-Bedford District School Board and Nova Learning Futures are working to finalize facility requirements in anticipation of a construction start by June, 1996. -30- Contact: Lisa Bugden 902-424-2795 trp Dec. 11, 1995