Espanola High School receives $10,000 grant from Skills Canada and Lowe’s

Espanola High School has received a $10,000 grant from Skills Canada and Lowe’s to enhance construction education and contribute to the local community. The 2011 Skills / Compétences Canada and Lowe’s Toolbox for Education Grant was presented to the school on Wednesday, December 1st, 2010.

“On behalf of Rainbow District School Board, I would like to thank Skills Canada and Lowe’s for supporting success by giving students this unique hands-on learning opportunity,” said Rainbow District School Board Chair Tyler Campbell. “When students make the connection between the classroom and the world of work, learning becomes that much more relevant.”

Skills / Compétences Canada and the Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation have partnered to provide one-time funding for high school based projects throughout Alberta and Ontario.  The grants aim to engage students and teachers who want to improve their school campus, curriculum delivery or surrounding community.

“With these funds, Grade 11 students will build seven structures for the Massey Fairgrounds, including six new ticket booths and a small administrative building,” said Espanola High School Principal Martin Punkari. Student Brooke Lehman will paint a large mural of an airborne motocross racer on the side of the administrative building.

The grant will cover the cost of supplies for the community project. Some tools and equipment will also be upgraded in the construction technology class at Espanola High School.

“This project, which will be complete by the end of the school year, will give students an opportunity to gain experience. They will also learn about the importance of teamwork and enjoy a sense of pride knowing that they have constructed quality buildings in the community for the community. We thank Skills Canada and Lowe’s for their generous support.”

Students in the Grade 11 construction class at Espanola High School attend events at the Massey Fairgrounds, including motocross racing and the agricultural fair, which attract thousands of visitors annually.

Espanola High School has a dedicated program focused on residential construction in Grade 11. The school has a 30 ft by 30 ft. open space inside its shop area, which provides an ideal classroom for building. Students learn about construction from the ground up, from framing to floor joists, walls, rafters, cornices, roofing, shingling, painting and finishing.

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Media Contact:

Martin Punkari, Principal, Espanola High School,
Rainbow District School Board, 705- 869-1590.