East Ridge Community School in Owen Sound is now formally open. Bluewater District School Board trustees joined board and school administrators, students, local dignitaries, community partners, architects, and a Ministry of Education representative for a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, October 13, 2017.
Owen Sound and area students from junior kindergarten to Grade 8, including those in French Immersion, were consolidated on the site of the former OSCVI.
Bluewater District School Board's strong community partnerships have also ensured additional program opportunities for young learners. Through a partnership with the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce, the school is home to the new Owen Sound YMCA Early Learning Centre for toddlers and preschoolers, and the YMCA Before and After School program for school age children.
The County of Grey and Keystone Child, Youth and Family Services, worked collaboratively with Bluewater District School Board to locate an Ontario Early Years Centre at the school as well. Parents and caregivers can attend programs in the centre with their infant children.
"Congratulations and best wishes to our students, staff, families, and partners as they begin an exciting future together in their wonderful new facility. We look forward to the traditions, successes, and all that is yet to come at East Ridge," says Superintendent of Education Lori Wilder.
"Students, families and staff are settling in nicely and really taking ownership of their new school community at East Ridge. With the official cutting of the ribbon, our Falcons are free to soar as high as ever as we continue to create an exceptional and exemplary learning culture for the Owen Sound area," says Principal Burke Mason.
An open house at East Ridge Community School for members of the public will occur at a later date with details to come.