After years of planning and construction, Parry Sound’s long-awaited school has opened its doors, bringing elementary and secondary students together under one roof. “It took so many people moving the yardsticks in so many ways to get it done,” said Paul Calandra, Ontario’s Minister of Education. After several delays, the new school is now open, welcoming more than 1,000 students on Tuesday. Français Pegahmagabow Elementary School also houses a childcare centre and serves students from kindergarten to Grade 6. “Appreciate the significance of Français Pegahmagabow. It’s something we at the ministry think that all Ontario students should learn about. What he accomplished is something that is a lesson for everybody,” said Calandra. The school is named in honour of the Indigenous First World War veteran and activist for Indigenous rights. One of his granddaughters was on hand Tuesday to help mark the official opening. “His contribution to World War One was very significant, becoming the most effective sniper in Canadian history and being one of 38 Canadians to receive three military medals. Today, he is known as the most highly decorated Indigenous soldier,” said his granddaughter, Theresa McGinnis. Staff at the school and officials with the Near North District School Board say the opening is great news for both local students and their families. “Today, we celebrate more than the opening of a new school. We celebrate opportunity, belonging and a bright future for all of our students,” said Principal Brigid Wright. Jay MacJanet, CEO of the Near North District School Board, added, “This has been a long time coming and, you know, without the patience and sometimes frustration of our teachers, and I totally understand that, what we need to do now is just heal and move forward. The most important thing with a school like this is that the kids are learning.” While students have already settled into their classrooms, some work on the site is still underway. The athletic track and field, several play areas and portions of the parking lot remain under construction.
