Parkwood Heights Elementary Receives MusiCounts Funding to Expand Music Program

Parkwood Heights Elementary School has been awarded funding through MusiCounts, Canada’s national music education charity. They are one of only two Anglophone Schools in NB to be successfully awarded a MusiCounts grant to support their school music program

MusiCounts invested a historic $1.1 million into music programs in 85 schools across Canada for this round of funding. Musicounts awards go towards the purchase of instruments, equipment, and gear through its school music funding programs 

Music teacher Jody Lavigne, who worked on the application, said “Applying for MusiCounts funding presents a valuable opportunity to grow our program and provide our students with the instruments, tools, and opportunities they need to succeed.”

“I was extremely surprised, grateful and excited to have been selected,” she added. “This will have such a positive influence on our students for years to come.”

“By receiving this funding, we will be able to significantly expand our music department and reach a wider range of students. I am always looking at different ways I can enrich and expand our program to benefit all students.”

“With additional instruments, we can provide more hands-on learning opportunities that not only keep students engaged but also deepen their interest and appreciation for music. Access to a greater variety of instruments will allow our students to explore different sounds and styles, fostering creativity and a stronger connection to music education.”

The school will showcase its growing program with a spring production of High School Musical Jr. “Our goal is to raise enough funds through ticket sales to continue expanding our music program, including new equipment and resources that will benefit all our young musicians. Your support for the arts will make a difference.”

Parkwood Heights – MusiCounts Grant Award Winner

School Breakfast Program

Government to provide free, nutritious breakfast to all New Brunswick students

UPPER MIRAMICHI (GNB) – All New Brunswick students will have access to healthy breakfast at school this year through a partnership with Feed NB (formerly Food Depot Alimentaire).

“We know that when students have a full belly, they can better focus on learning,” said Premier Susan Holt. “By giving students universal access to a school breakfast program, we are giving them one of the essential tools they need to succeed while also helping to make life more affordable for New Brunswick families.”

According to Statistics Canada, nearly one in four New Brunswick children arrives at school hungry every day. Under this contract extension, the provincial and federal governments will invest $13 million to provide access to healthy breakfast foods to students in all schools across the province’s seven school districts.

In partnership with Feed NB, 136 schools across New Brunswick had access to healthy foods at the start of the school 2024-25 year.

“We are thrilled that, this year, all schools in New Brunswick will have access to breakfast, bringing in the 160 schools previously left out,” said Holt.

School breakfast will feature apples, milk, eggs, cheese, bread, cereal, bagels and other nutritious options, with ingredients sourced locally in New Brunswick, when possible, or from across Canada.

“This school breakfast program will mean more engaged students and better results overall,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Claire Johnson. “We are grateful to our partners at Feed NB, who are helping us deliver on our commitment to ensure all children in New Brunswick have access to a breakfast program at school.”

“Feed NB is thrilled to partner with the provincial government to make breakfast a reality for every student in the province,” said Stéphane Sirois, the organization’s executive director. “This is a big step towards our vision of a hunger-free New Brunswick.”

The government announced in February it had secured more than $11 million from the federal government’s National School Food Program to expand and enhance access to school food programs in New Brunswick.

“Investments like these ensure a healthy meal for children who don’t always have enough to eat at home,” said Anna Gainey, federal secretary of state for children and youth. “Canada’s government is committed to supporting families by helping kids access nourishing food at school which delivers better outcomes for everyone.”

Gainey commented for federal Jobs and Families Minister Patty Hajdu.

The provincial government has committed to an additional annual investment of $2 million to help students access healthy foods at school.

More information about the school breakfast program is available online.

03-09-25

Welcome Students

Welcome to a brand-new school year! We are so excited to see all of you. Whether you are just beginning your educational journey in kindergarten, stepping into your final year of high school, or anywhere in between.

This new year is full of possibilities. It’s a chance to learn new things, make new friends, and set new goals. Whether you’re exploring letters and numbers, diving into science labs, or preparing for college and careers, we believe in your potential and can’t wait to see what you’ll accomplish.

Our schools are ready for you. With caring teachers, dedicated staff, and a strong community that is here to support you every step of the way.

Let’s make this year one to remember. Work hard, be kind, and never stop believing in yourself.

Here’s to a safe, successful, and inspiring school year!

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