THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

When Prince of Wales Public School opens its doors this September, it will introduce a new, school-wide arts focus that will include an artist in residence, year-round workshops by local musicians, actors and artisans, and more.

The school will hold a news conference next week with several of its artistic partners, to unveil the one-of-a-kind program. The media are invited to attend:

Thursday, July 9

11 a.m.

Prince of Wales Public School

Monaghan Road at Sherbrooke Street

Peterborough

"We are very excited to embark on an arts program that will support the curriculum in all areas and celebrate the arts in our community," says Principal Penny Hope. "One aspect of the program will be to welcome John Climenhage, a well known local painter, as our artist in residence. He will bring his studio to Prince of Wales, offer workshops to all grades, and present after-school arts activities for students and parents.

"In addition, professional photographer Wayne Eardley will work with students each term to teach them traditional photography and developing techniques," she adds. "At the same time, Beau Dixon, local actor, musician and director, will work with older students to create and produce a play with a musical score developed by our own teacher and musician William Hamilton. And Lisa Dixon, owner of Black Honey restaurant, will teach students about cooking healthy, balanced meals and experimenting with ‘sugar art’."

Throughout the year, a wide variety of other artists and artisans will offer workshops as well, in areas including weaving, pottery, drama, puppetry, cooking, candy art, physical theatre, international music and more. Each term, the students will present the work they have created to the public.

Several participating artists have been invited to the July 9 media conference to answer questions.

"We would not be able to offer this unique and exciting program without the enthusiastic support of the local arts community," notes Reet Patterson, Superintendent of Student Achievement responsible for Peterborough City and County schools. "The students will benefit immensely. When they leave Prince of Wales, they will have a portfolio of their work, to bring to high school, college or university."

"Prince of Wales will be the first elementary school in Kawartha Pine Ridge to offer such intensive, arts-based programming," explains Sylvia Terpstra, Director of Education. "Numerous studies show the benefits of arts education. It produces well-rounded students whose creativity and problem-solving skills are enhanced and can be applied to all areas of life. What a wonderful opportunity this is for our students."

Prince of Wales Public School has more than 400 students in its regular and French Immersion programs. It also has a Learning and Life Skills class and English Second Language programming for students new to Canada.

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Penny Hope, Principal of Prince of Wales PS, at 743-8595

Judy Malfara, Communications Officer - School Liaison for the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board, at 742-9773, ext. 2001