News Release Archive
EDUCATION/CULTURE--PORTERS LAKE-LAKE ECHO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
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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.
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Contact: Lisa Bugden 902-424-2795
trp Dec. 11, 1995