(May 5, 2023, St. John’s) – Barry Petten, PC Official Opposition Shadow Minister of Education and MHA for Conception Bay South, says deplorable conditions at Frank Roberts Junior High are affecting students and staff alike.

Frank Roberts is a Grade 7-9 school with over 650 kids jammed in a building constructed in the 1960s. Small rooms have 33/34 children in some classes.

“Small, overcrowded classrooms; no cafeteria; no ventilation; mould on ceilings and walls; rats and mice running around. These are the consistent issues I hear from parents and teachers,” said Petten.

“It is simply unacceptable.”

Petten noted Frank Roberts Junior High has been on the Capital list for the Eastern School District for many years but has not received any attention by the Furey Government.

“Over the years, we have had a sewer back up, portion of the roof blew off and leaks throughout the building. Teachers, students and staff have complained about headaches and other underlying health issues for years. Serious concerns have been raised about air quality in the building,” said Petten.

“The School Council and I have been lobbying for years for a new school. Enough is enough. I am calling on the Liberal Government to make immediate improvements to the school in the short-term while planning immediately begins on a replacement.”

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Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca