Nancy Rideout

The initial meeting included introductions and an overview of the project scope. The role of the Steering Committee was outlined, specifying its input into the development and design across three phases: Schematic Design, Detailed Design Development, and Construction. Members received the Project Terms of Reference and Agreement, which is due for signature shortly. A presentation by the consulting team detailed the schematic design for the new school, which is designed for 800 students. Key discussion points included the two planned access points (Amalfi Way and Maple Grove Avenue), concerns about parking near the bus loop, and the location of fields and playgrounds. Safety measures for the playground near drop-off areas were discussed. Capacity limits and student assignment determination were raised, with concerns referencing prior experiences requiring modular classrooms. PCL was confirmed as the contractor and Architecture 49 as the prime consultant.

The School Steering Team meeting focused on several key areas concerning the Clayton Park-Fairview School project. Discussions included providing final design feedback before moving to the construction document phase, noting that changes after this point would be costly. Concerns were raised regarding security in the administration area and the submission deadline for all remaining feedback. Regarding gym seating, permanent bleachers were deemed impractical due to space limitations for badminton run-off, leading to discussion of movable seating alternatives. For the school art project, $5,000 was confirmed for installation costs, and a subcommittee will be formed to collaborate with architects; it was confirmed that gym floor logos will not be installed due to maintenance concerns. Construction progress included the completion of tree clearing and geotechnical work, with structural package finalization anticipated for review. Site safety protocols, including signage and traffic flow management, were addressed. Communication protocols were established for updating the MLA and providing school community updates on trail closures. Lastly, concerns from Raleigh Court residents are under review, and field rehabilitation will be coordinated with municipal planning.

The meeting covered updates on the Clayton Park-Fairview School project. Early Works (Phase 1), including front-of-site grading and rock removal, are nearly complete, with underground servicing scheduled for February 2026. The Structural Package (Phase 2) pricing is underway, aiming for a construction start before April 2026. Design progress is on schedule with 33% construction drawings under review. Open action items included the need for volunteers for the Arts Subcommittee and a request for the Color Board presentation (interior finishes, wayfinding, exterior materials) at the next meeting, with a direction towards natural tones. Discussions on landscaping detailed planned tree planting, safety sightlines, drainage, and the installation of a continuous privacy fence along the boundary. The responsibility for remaining informal trails needs clarification between municipal and education authorities.

The design discussion emphasized a structure utilizing shared specialist spaces instead of permanently assigned classrooms, with flexibility to accommodate specialists working full-time onsite. Considerations were made for safety and noise concerning the proximity of Learning Centres and Pre-Primary areas, resulting in two ground-floor Learning Centres planned with one being significantly larger than standard. Classroom allocation labels are placeholders, and final decisions on furniture, equipment, and program details like French Immersion will occur closer to opening. The library is designed as an enclosed, centralized flexible space. The school's capacity is planned for approximately 800 students based on demographic projections. Site design includes a dedicated parent drop-off/pick-up loop, and fencing/natural buffers will address safety and privacy. Accessibility concerns regarding daytime meetings were noted for future consideration. The construction update indicated geotechnical work is nearing completion, with early site work anticipated for early spring.

The meeting covered feedback from the School Design presentation, including concerns about the VP's offices being on separate floors, clarification on the use of offices for school counselors and Schools Plus, and the decision not to include showers in the learning center. There was discussion about staff washrooms, robotics labs, Snoezelen Rooms, and sensory gardens. The potential for HRM Rec space was considered, and community groups will be able to rent the gym. The design of the field and the accessibility of basketball courts were discussed. The project status was reviewed, including design development and site work. Opportunities to contribute to school features, such as art projects and outdoor features, were explored. The naming of the school was also addressed.