It was something we had been waiting for. After years of campaigning, the words we had been waiting for were announced by the Honourable Bernard Valcourt, the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, with the announcement of funding for the design and construction of a new elementary/middle school in the community."Improving on-reserve education is a priority we share with First Nation parents, leaders and educators," said Minister Valcourt. "A good education creates opportunities for students and contributes to strong and vibrant communities, and that is why our Government will continue to invest in building and renovating schools on reserve."The new school will accommodate the 94 students enrolled in the present elementary school, as well as meet student population growth expectations for the future.Also on hand for the announcement last Thursday were Chieg George Ginnish,Principal John Hawkes and Miramichi Mla Tilley Gordon ."As a former educator in the area, I am thrilled that the community of Eel Ground is getting a new school," said Miramichi MP Tilly O'Neill Gordon. "There is a vibrant school community at Eel Ground First Nation and this new facility will allow students and teachers to achieve even more."The school, estimated to occupy 2,249 m2, will be designed and built to achieve a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver rating or a minimum Green Globes rating of 4. The improved energy efficiency will result in significantly reduced operating costs.Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada is investing in the new school in partnership with Eel Ground First Nation.A call for tenders for the design and construction of the school is expected to be issued in the summer of 2013.