FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Geoventure students construct a trail at bird observatory
2 June 2006, Belleville, Ontario—Students in the current Geoventure program at Moira Secondary School recently teamed up with Geoventure alumni to construct a trail at the Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory, located at Long Point in Prince Edward County. Spirits were high as students shoveled and wheelbarrowed gravel to create a wheelchair accessible trail in memory of John Rymes.

John Rymes was married to former Geoventure teacher, Cindy Rymes. John and Cindy were huge supporters of Geoventure. John recently passed away after a five-year battle with ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease). The Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory was a favourite place for John to observe birds during their migration.

When approached about the opportunity to contribute to this community project, Geoventure students were ecstatic. “This is a cool way for us to learn that helping out is important and that teenagers can make a difference,” said student Shelby Cassidy.

Geoventure is a unique semester long program offered to Grade 10 students at Moira Secondary. Students study English, Science, Physical Education and Civics/Careers in an integrated program. Community service is a fundamental part of the experience. To date, students have been involved with such events as the Belleville Trash Bash and the Kiwanis Fishing Derby.

The Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board has 46 elementary and eight secondary schools serving 18,400 students, employing 1,070 teachers and 705 support staff. The Board covers a wide geographical area of 7,221 square kilometres bordered by Maynooth to the north, Deseronto to the east, Prince Edward County to the south, and Quinte West to the west.

For more information, contact:
• Kerry Donnell, Communications Officer, (613) 966-1170 or 1 800 267-4350, extension 2354