For Immediate Release
SARM reacts to school closures
SARM is calling on the provincial government to intervene in the planned closures of rural schools announced by the Chinook and Prairie Valley School Divisions.
Recently, SARM delegates unanimously passed a resolution calling for a five-year moratorium on school closures, except in cases where local affected communities agree to close the school. This moratorium would allow rural communities a chance to pursue ongoing economic and population growth initiatives.
“While rural Saskatchewan communities are exploring new ways to remain viable and sustainable, the school boards have yanked the rug out from under them,” said SARM President David Marit. “Developing economic opportunities and sustaining social cohesion go hand in hand. Unless the province intervenes to save these schools, our rural communities are in jeopardy as population and industries move toward larger urban centers.”
“Rural schools are the heart of the communities and a major part of our social infrastructure,” said Marit. “Not only will local residents be personally affected by the closures, but opportunities for community growth will also be lost forever.”
For more information contact:
David Marit
SARM President
306.476.7754 (cellular)
Ken Engel
SARM Executive Director
306.757.3578 (office)
306.536.2948 (cellular)
