By Ian Holmes

Revamped facilities and programs take shape at SD 68 schools

Sep 5, 2018 | 8:05 PM

NANAIMO — A few notable facility changes have taken effect in District 68 to start the new school year, including a drastically different look to north Nanaimo elementary schools and an expanded learning alternative program.

Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools Supt. Scott Saywell said there is space for every student in their respective catchment areas following the closure of Rutherford Elementary.

“I think we have a couple portables on McGirr and space at Randerson Ridge and we still have space at Frank J. Ney, so we’re looking okay.”

Saywell said doubling the size of Frank J. Ney School was recently completed by crews and 10 additional classrooms are operational. Saywell expected a highly-anticipated new gym at Hammond Bay Elementary to open in early to mid-November.

Saywell said another key addition this school year is the expansion of the adult learning alternative program known as VAST (Vocational, Adult, Secondary Training) to the old Woodlands Secondary site. He said the home location at John Barsby School was getting cramped and more space was needed to meet growing demand.

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“It’s a program that provides some flexibility and choice for students who in some cases are working part-time and can only get to school part-time.”

Saywell said an expected 180 students will be enrolled in VAST this school year.

He said the District fared well on teacher recruitment, but hopes to hire additional specialty teachers for french immersion, as well as senior math and sciences positions.

Saywell called for patience from parents as district officials iron out first week classroom size and composition issues. He expected all students in District 68 to be in their regular classrooms by Monday.

ian@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @reporterholmes