June 20, 2017
1546
“We are stronger together.”
This was the message of optimism shared by education director Alana Murray during opening remarks at this year’s Community Planning and Partnerships meeting, Tuesday, June 13.
Thirty-four guests, representing upper- and lower-tier municipalities and community organizations, visited the Bluewater District School Board Education Centre in Chesley to exchange information and ideas with trustees and board staff on potential partnership opportunities.
The agenda included a presentation on the school board’s capital planning priorities and partnerships criteria for the use of school space, 10 presentations by guests, and a question-and-answer session.
The theme that resonated throughout the evening was the need and willingness to strengthen dialogue and collaborative efforts among all key partners in Bruce and Grey counties, in order to build a local base for families to come raise their children and enjoy productive lives.
“Building positive working relationships with our community partners is critical to fostering ongoing collaboration and sustainable solutions that best serve the needs of our communities," said Murray. "We look forward to being a part of the continued conversation among our municipalities and local organizations as we collectively chart our course ahead.”
“A number of proactive partnerships have already been established through our previous Community Planning and Partnerships meetings," said Rob Cummings, treasurer and superintendent of business services. "We will continue to initiate and welcome sharing opportunities with our stakeholders and further explore ways to best maximize our resources.”
The Ontario Ministry of Education’s Community Planning and Partnerships guideline encourages school boards and community organizations to regularly share planning information that may generate mutually-beneficial opportunities to share school facilities. This may occur during new school builds or renovation projects, and when considering the use of unoccupied school space and school properties considered for future disposition.
Municipal and community organizations may indicate their interest in partnerships with the school board at any time by completing an “Application of Interest for Community Facility Partnership,” available on the board website at www.bwdsb.on.ca/business/CPP.
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