SAINT JOHN (GNB) – The provincial government will invest $7.5 million to integrate a community hub into the design of the new K-8 school in the Saint John central peninsula.
“A hub of this kind will provide a space for children to continue developing their skills before they attend school or outside school hours and will provide the flexibility needed by working parents,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Bill Hogan. “We understand this is a unique area with particular needs and we are proud to make this project happen.”
The community hub is a pilot project and could include a dedicated, licensed early learning hub for children up to four years old, after-school programs, and flexible spaces for community partners and family services.
The district education council, Develop Saint John, the City of Saint John, parent committees and local anti-poverty groups have promoted the project since 2019.
“We believe the services and opportunities the community hub will provide are essential and it will become a model for how schools can be – not only a place of learning – but the heart of a community,” said Anglophone South superintendent Derek O’Brien. “This investment will have a measurable impact, not only on students and early learners, but their families and the entire south end community.”
“Saint John central peninsula is one of the city’s most diverse and fastest-growing neighbourhoods,” said Hogan. “This community hub is essential, as it will help working families access child care, help children navigate the transition to school, and help newcomers integrate into the community. We expect it have a long-lasting positive impact in the surrounding communities. We will be closely monitoring the impact and will use what we learn in future projects as appropriate.”
The new school, which was announced in the 2023-24 capital budget, is expected to cost $38.2 million, bringing the total project investment to $45.7 million. The school and community hub are anticipated to open in September 2026.
30-06-23