Great news for the Chippewas of Nawash on the Bruce Peninsula.
The community is getting a new school.
The Federal government is funding the construction of a brand new Cape Croker Elementary School.
Bruce Grey Owen Sound MP Larry Miller made the announcement today at the Band Administration Office, on behalf of Minister of Indian Affairs Chuck Strahl.
While no dollar amount is fixed yet for the project, the money will come from the 1.4 billion dollar investment in Aboriginal peoples under Canada’s Economic Action Plan.
Chief Ralph Akiwenzie says the current school was built in 1969 and is small and outdated.
He says the new Kindergarten through Grade 8 school will be double the size and also include recreation facilities like a gymnasium, soccer field, track, and basketball court.
Chief Akiwenzie says there are about 90 students in the current school, but he believes the new facility may encourage other families back to the community.
As for jobs, Chief Akiwenzie says there will be construction work available, while teaching positions will most likely be covered by current staff.
Chief Akiwenzie says today’s announcement is very important to the community.
He says the school is the central focus of the community and will provide their youth with quality facilities.
Chief Akiwenzie also says having a school in the community gives kids a strong basis in their culture, language, and history, providing them with a great start as they go on toward high school and post secondary education.
It’s hoped the school will be ready to open in September 2010.
Another announcement by Minister Strahl on Monday was for 65 million dollars for affordable housing on Ontario’s First Nations reserves.
Chief Akiwenzie says the Chippewas of Nawash will apply for some of that funding.