The $3.9 million project includes a new gymnasium, playing fields and upgrades to the existing school which dates back to 1879.

At the official opening, Premier Binns commended the planning committee for the fine job that was done in bridging the old and new elements of the school. “The project has resulted in improved access to programming and state-of-the-art facilities, along with several major upgrades that preserve the quality and character of the old school.”

Education Minister Mildred Dover said over $1.5 million was invested in a new gymnasium, which is complete with stage, storage, offices and modified washroom and change areas. Another $150,000 was provided for equipment.

Approximately $470,000 is being invested in green space and playing fields near the school and at the site of the former Prince County Hospital.

Major improvements are being made to school bus loading and parking at both Parkside and Summerside Intermediate schools.

The windows and lighting in the old school are being replaced. A new elevator has made the building completely accessible.

Minister Dover said that with Parkside’s rich history, the school has embraced many changes over the years. “What has remained constant at Parkside is the quality of the learning experience and the strong sense of community that still exists here today,” she said.

Parkside Elementary School opened in 1879 as the Davies School which was PEI’s first public school. Since then it has been home to learning for students in every grade, from 1 to 12.

As the school’s role changed over the years, so did its name. It was named the Davies School, the Summerside High School, the Summerside Elementary School, the Summer Street Elementary School. Finally, it became the Parkside Elementary School in 1964. In 1998, the school was registered as a provincial heritage site.