Statia is one step closer to opening a modern secondary school building for the students and staff of the Gwendoline van Putten School (GVP), as construction has entered its final stage.
Island Commissioner Reuben Merkman, responsible for education, toured the construction site with representatives of Statia Government and a representative of the GVP Board. The delegation was guided by a representative of the construction team, who provided an update on the work completed so far and the steps still needed before completion.
The new school building is located along Korthalsweg. An additional access route from Spiegelweg is also being prepared. Designs for this route are being developed, and local contractors will be invited to take part in this phase of the project.
The project is being carried out with safety, quality education, and wellbeing at its centre. It is intended to provide a more suitable learning environment for students and a modern working environment for staff.
Visible progress can now be seen throughout the site. Inside the building, classroom ceilings and floors are being installed, along with electrical installations, guard railings, and the new on-site wastewater treatment system. Outside, the bus drop-off area, parking spaces, and basketball court are taking shape.
Once most of the construction has been completed before the end of the year, furnishing will take place and preparations for the relocation will begin.
Statia Government, the GVP Board, and the Executive Council look forward to continued cooperation as they work towards preparing the building for use. The project forms part of the Government’s continued commitment to strengthening education infrastructure and supporting the future learning environment of young people in Statia.
