Saltwater School, the Comox Valley’s Waldorf Inspired Independent School, is preparing for this fall when it opens its doors for the first time.
After purchasing a building in Tin Town and starting renovations in the spring, it has been a long and exciting process for the group to plan and create what is shaping up to be a beautiful space.
This week sees the finishing of the drywall, lazure painting in the classrooms and the cork flooring installation. As well, the outdoor space is undergoing some major changes, as asphalt is removed and a fence begun in preparations for the play yard.
With over a quarter of a million dollars generously donated to the Saltwater Society, other updates include a brand-new energy-efficient fresh air system and an engineered lighting design, customized classrooms including a movable classroom for the Grade 1/2 class and an anthroposophically-designed outdoor playspace.
"As the first day of school approaches, we get closer to having the Saltwater School open its doors to the children," says volunteer project manager Michael Vincent. "We have an architect, three engineers, many contractors and volunteers involved in upgrading the building to meet school standards, within our very tight schedule. At this point, I believe that we are going to be ready for Sept. 6."
The school is looking forward to showcasing these updates and renovations in an open house and tour of the school, which will be held Aug. 25 at 6:30 p.m. at 2311 Rosewall Cres.
“We are so excited to see this coming together,” says Kendra Quince, the kindergarten teacher at Saltwater School.
With 11 students registered in the mixed-age class, Quince is looking forward to the final preparations of her classroom.
“It will be very different from my small class last year - we will have a school which represents how the community is supporting us, and I am grateful to see how many people have been a part of bringing Waldorf Education to the Comox Valley," she said. "Our children are blessed to have this opportunity.”
For more information on Saltwater School’s renovations, schedule of events or enrollment, please call 250-871-7777 or visit www.saltwaterschool.com.
— Saltwater School
