Education Centre Officially Opened
Bluewater District School Board has officially opened its Chesley Education Centre.
About 50 invited guests gathered for the ribbon cutting, which was followed by public tours.
"I was chair of the local education improvement committee which was charged with putting together recommendations to smooth the amalgamation of the former Bruce and Grey County boards of education," Bluewater Board Chair Jennifer Yenssen commented in her opening remarks.
"I also had the honor of being the first chair of the new amalgamated board and the first Bluewater trustees on that board supported a recommendation to bring all of our employees together in one building. It took 11 years, but here we are in this beautiful new building."
Construction on the 43 thousand square foot building began in December of 2007. Staff moved in during the 2009 March break.
"This building to me represents the two former boards coming together with a common goal," said MPP Carol Mitchell, "and that's to provide an environment for our children that will ensure that they have a bright future."
Bill Murdoch agreed with Mitchell and said the new building is a big improvement.
"I've had no problems with this board in my almost 20 years. We didn't always agree on things, but we were always able to sort things out and I think that's the main thing. I appreciate all the work you do because as I say, I enjoy working with you."
Student Senator Chad Richards expressed his gratitude at being asked to speak at the ceremony and offered his congratulations to the board. Jim Thorpe of the Bluewater Parent Involvement Committee was appreciative that parents were represented at the official opening.
"Parental involvement is a vital piece in the education of a child,"Thorpe said, "and when parents are involved and engaged in the education of their children, the children achieve and learn more. When parents are involved at the board level the system works better for all of us and helps put the public in public education."
Grey County Warden Kevin Eccles and Bruce County Warden Bill Goetz brought greetings, as did Arran-Elderslie Mayor Ron Oswald.
The platform guests gathered in front of the podium and stretched a 16-foot blue ribbon across the room. At the count of three Chad Richards cut the ribbon and the education centre was declared officially open.
Following a blessing offered by trustee Tim Reaburn, Director of Education Mary Anne Alton thanked trustees.
"I applaud the board for making this dream a reality."
Alton commended staff for their patience in waiting for the new building and thanked everyone involved in the project and the official opening for their hard work.
Public tours gave the curious a chance to explore the new centre and see first hand its many energy efficiencies and green solutions. There are 142 employees with workspace in the building, which houses the Human Resources, Finance, Education, Student Services, Plant Services and ICT departments.
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