Parents in Conception Bay North express joy over the province’s commitment to rebuild Cabot Academy, destroyed by a massive wildfire last summer.
Community Relief After Devastating Fire
Cabot Academy parent Susan Traverse-Delaney shares the excitement sweeping the region. “We’re elated, the whole shore,” she says. “It’s just a good day for the North Shore.”
The wildfire struck on August 15, ravaging the Kingston area and destroying about 200 structures, including the school that served around 60 students. Displaced students now attend nearby schools like Carbonear Academy and Persalvic Elementary.
Province’s Rebuild Assurance
Education Minister Paul Dinn confirms the province’s full intent to replace the school. He notes considerations such as the facility’s size, catchment areas, and enrollment figures before proceeding. “We’re not abandoning Conception Bay North residents, in no way, when it comes to the school,” Dinn states.
Personal and Community Impact
Traverse-Delaney highlights the school’s vital role beyond education. “When I found out that we lost the school in August, I feel like a piece of me just was lost,” she reflects. Since the fire, students face challenges, with her own child crying daily.
In January, she met with Carbonear-Trinity-Bay de Verde MHA Riley Balsom, who pledged to advocate for the rebuild. This spurred a petition drive among residents.
The community remains resolute. “As a community from the North Shore, we are going to rebuild stronger,” Traverse-Delaney declares. Her daughter reacted with pure delight to the news, skipping to the car and sharing it with friends.
