FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Prince Edward CI students to meet with the Honourable John Godfrey, Minister of State
9 January 2006, Belleville, Ontario—Exploring employment opportunities for youth will be the topic of discussion at Prince Edward Collegiate Institute this week when the Honourable John Godfrey, Minister of State (Infrastructure and Communities) will visit with senior students.

“Creating opportunities for youth employment is important to the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board,” remarks Judy Edgar, Chair of the Board. “While secondary students presently participate in apprenticeship, cooperative education and workplace programs which can lead to employment after completion of secondary school, we welcome any additional support the government can provide to assist young people in finding successful pathways.”

Students in the Grade 12 World Issues course and those involved in the new Trading Up construction trades skills training program will be in attendance.

“This is a valuable learning experience for our students,” explains Helen Beck, Principal of Prince Edward Collegiate Institute. “They are anxious to hear the Minister’s perspective on employment opportunities for youth and will offer their own ideas, as well.”

MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO A PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
DATE: Wednesday, January 11, 2006
LOCATION: Prince Edward Collegiate Institute, Junior Cafeteria
TIME: 12:00 p.m.
WHAT: The Honourable John Godfrey will address students followed by a question period

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