The walls are rising

Story provided by Al Bottomley

The construction of the new AHSS is proceeding on time. It is beginning to look like a school as the steel girders are put in place. The contractor hopes to have the walls of the two storied part completed before winter sets so that they can have a work area safe from the elements. It is expected that the school will be completed by early next summer. People passing the site are getting excited about the aspect of having a beautiful, modern secondary school.

The ACCESS committee is gathering funds for their augmentation projects. If anyone wishes to help them fulfill their goals of getting the school and community theatre seating, updated shop equipment and trails through the 61 acres, please get involved. Interested parties can help by aiding fund raising ( by helping making applications ) or by donations. Also there are two sub committees trying to achieve other goals.

The Snoezelen Room group is fund making to get equipment for the therapy room in the school. They are asking supportive groups or individuals to purchase a piece of equipment ranging from $33 to $2500 in price. This room will be used to help special needs students, and community members in need of its calming therapies. It is the only facility of its kind in the Almaguin Highlands and is much needed.

Finally, there is a group trying to build a greenhouse for the school. This would be very helpful for courses in environment, forestry, culinary arts, science and the Personal Life Management Program. On top of this it would allow area horticultural societies to tutor students in cultivating a sense of gardening and to grow plants for the summer beautification plans in several of the area villages. It would provide co-opt and other students the opportunity to run a facility which would provide fresh, nutritious food for the school's consumption.

All of these projects will make this school a superior centre for learning and community interaction. Please help if you can. Opening day is quickly approaching. Contact me at [email protected] or phone 384-5267 for more information on how you can help.