Students from the Abbotsford Senior Secondary Drumline set the rhythm at the official opening ceremony today for the school after a $45-million partial replacement and seismic upgrade, to the delight of students, staff, and other guests, including Minister of Finance and Abbotsford West MLA Michael de Jong.

The school, which has a capacity of 1,100 students, features a dramatic three-storey central rotunda that branches off to new classrooms and workshops for the school's trades and technical programs which include culinary, hair design, automotive repair and green construction courses. Wood beams from the original school have been retained as seating in the new rotunda.

The gymnasiums, music area, community theatre and some classrooms were retained from the original school. Work was facilitated through the Seismic Mitigation Program and this project was the largest and most expensive in the district to date.

The on-site Abbotsford Community Library, funded by a $4 million contribution from the City of Abbotsford, brings students and the community together to share its extensive collection and computer resources.

The school also hosts the Sweeney Neighbourhood Learning Centre which will offer a wide range of programs and services through a partnership between the school district, municipality and agencies such as the City's Parks, Recreation and Culture department, Fraser Health and the United Way of the Fraser Valley.

Quotes:

Don McRae, Minister of Education -

"With the addition of the Abbotsford Community Library and Sweeney Neighbourhood Learning Centre, this school is a shining example of how we can bring the community into our schools to benefit all citizens while enriching the learning experience of our students."

Michael de Jong, Minister of Finance and MLA for Abbotsford West -

"As we continue to replace and upgrade schools across the province, it's great to see the renewal of this major asset for Abbotsford and know that it will continue to serve students and families for generations to come."

Cindy Schafer, Abbotsford board of education chair -

"Not only is this a truly modern facility, whose design invites student collaboration and creativity, the school, Sweeney Centre and library offer programs, services and support for citizens of all ages, needs and interests."

Quick Facts:

• Since 2001, the Province has invested more than $147.5 million in the Abbotsford school district, including an addition to Abbotsford Traditional school and the replacement of Abbotsford Middle school.
• As well, the Province has invested more than $1.2 million in the district for additional space for full-day kindergarten.
• Since 2001, government has spent more than $840 million on seismic upgrading of schools in 37 districts in B.C.

Learn More:

BC's Education Plan: http://WWW.BCEDPLAN.CA

Abbotsford Elementary: http://www.abbysenior.com/

Media Contact:

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Education
250 356-5963