RENFREW COUNTY CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
RCCDSB welcomes new daycare facility at St. John Bosco Catholic School

The ribbon-cutting event marked the most recent collaboration in a three-year partnership between St. John Bosco and the Killaloe Community Resource Centre, building on the robust before-and-after-school program that was already in place. The project also received support from Renfrew County Child Care Services, staff, students and members of the school community.

"It is partnerships such as this that make our communities good places to live and learn," remarked Board Chair Dave Howard. "I congratulate everyone involved."

Bil Smith, Executive Director, spoke on behalf of the Killaloe Community Resource Centre, noting that the project couldn't have happened without the work of a lot of people. "The rooms are absolutely beautiful. We're thankful to the school community which has been really welcoming," said Smith.

Marlene Borutski, RCCDSB Trustee for the Madawaska area family of schools, commented, "The opening of this new daycare will bring a wonderful opportunity to the families of Barry's Bay and area. Not only will the daycare benefit from the facilities in our school building, but families will benefit by having access to daycare in their community."

The new daycare facility will accommodate 15 toddlers and 24 preschool children and create eight new jobs in the community.

Funding of $1.6 million for the daycare renovations was received from the Ministry of Education and included the retrofit for a big, bright, new kindergarten classroom that entailed the removal of a wall and the addition of new windows.

Some exterior work was also included in the project. The construction of a new parking lot, sidewalk in front of the school, and bus turnaround, as well as the installation of improved lighting will help to enhance traffic flow and safety.

St. John Bosco Principal Julia Graydon called it an "amazing journey," as she welcomed Kidz Kastle to the school. "We couldn't be happier to have you join our school community. We hope our partnership with you continues to flourish and deepen in the many years to come."