Four Catholic Schools in Prince Albert Secure Playground Grants

The Prince Albert Roman Catholic School Division has announced that four schools will receive a total of $50,000 each from the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association Grant. This funding aims to enhance playground facilities at Ecole Holy Cross, St. Catherine Community School, St. John Community School, and St. Michael Community School. The project at Ecole Holy Cross has already been completed, with the grant intended to offset expenses previously incurred by the School Community Council (SCC).

Director of Education Lorel Trumier expressed gratitude for the government’s support, stating, “Our playgrounds were one of the areas that we can’t thank this government enough for this opportunity.” She highlighted the significance of the funding, noting that five out of the division’s six elementary schools will benefit from this initiative. “It really makes a difference. It’s important that this happens in our schools,” she added.

In November, the school division had previously secured a similar grant of $50,000 for Ecole St. Anne School, further demonstrating the program’s impact on local educational facilities. Schools were eligible to apply for matching funds for project expenses incurred after April 1.

On September 9, the Province of Saskatchewan announced an annual investment of $3.75 million aimed at enriching outdoor play spaces across the province. Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Alana Ross indicated that the grant would be administered in collaboration with the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association (SPRA).

Trumier explained that each school has a unique approach to utilizing the matching grant. “They did have to establish, through their SCCs, funds that would match up to $50,000. In some cases, our schools will receive some in-kind support or donations,” she noted. The swift action taken by the SCCs to submit grant applications was commendable, as the funding was allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

The schools have been officially notified by the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association regarding their successful applications. Trumier expressed satisfaction in seeing the financial burden on the SCCs alleviated, allowing them to redirect funds toward other projects. “If that grant would not have been available, it would not have happened this quickly,” she remarked.

During a regular board meeting on December 15, Trumier shared the positive news with members of the board of education, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and fundraising efforts in securing the grants. The funding will not only enhance playground facilities but also foster a more engaging outdoor environment for students across the Prince Albert Catholic School Division.