Dear Editor,
I am writing this letter to express our gratitude in receiving the exciting news about the official announcement of a new replacement building for the Neerlandia Public Christian School (N.P.C.S.) The original school building is 72 years old and it has caused many problems for the Pembina Hills Regional Division (P.H.R.D.) Maintenance Department. The announcement of a new school is positive not only for the Neerlandia Community, but also for P.H.R.D. and other schools in the district. N.P.C.S. has been a top priority in the PHRD capital plan since 2006.
The replacement of N.P.C.S. will lead to a rearrangement of long range capital plans within P.H.R.D. and hopefully other schools needs will be addressed sooner.
On behalf of the N.P.C.S. Council, I would like to take this opporutnity to thank Education Minister, Jeff Johnson, our MLA, Ms. Maureen Kubinec, Pembina Hills School Division Superintendent Colleen Symyrozum-Watt, P.H.R.D. Board Chair Sharon Volorney and all of the P.H.R.D. School Trustees, Barrhead County Councillor Mr. Dennis Nanninga and Mrs. Jennifer Tuininga, a previous school council chair for their commitment and support.
Schools are vital for the sustainability of rural communities, such as Neerlandia. N.P.C.S. is a non-denominational public Christian alternative school. The integration of faith into the curriculum and thus, the serving of others in the nearby and broader communities are very important. The alternative status of the school and the tremendous support of the community are the main reasons why N.P.C.S. has maintained a 100% utilization rate. Registration for the 2013/2014 school year is still open. Thanks again for all the support and good news.
Sonja de Waal, Chairperson,
Neerlandia Public Christian School Council
