The two newly reconstructed buildings also boost energy efficiency upgrades that are aimed at reducing power consumption, an integral part of the school system’s effort to reduce energy conservation.
GTC’s old buildings stood the test of time for nearly 50 years. They were built in 1951 and recent structural studies showed that further use of the facilities was no longer conducive to learning.
“It has been a challenge for many years and we did it because we strived hard for it. And we could not have done it without the support of the commissioner of education, the Board of Education and the Office of the Governor,” school principal Charlotte Camacho told guests, GTC students and personnel during yesterday’s ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The last time a GTC facility was renovated or rehabilitated was almost nine years ago. It was only two years ago when the PSS leadership, led by Education Commissioner Rita A. Sablan, and BOE led by Chairwoman Lucia Blanco-Maratita decided to construct new buildings which have nine huge classrooms.
“What we have achieved today is a milestone and a product of our collective effort and partnership,” Sablan said.
The nine new classrooms show that “education is truly a priority for our students,” Blanco-Maratita said.
A total of $836,321 was spent to build the two new buildings, and a portion of the funds came from reprogrammed capital improvement project funds.
It took less than two years to construct the buildings and reconstruct the existing and aging facilities using upgraded materials that included concrete column walls rather than metal or wood, and aluminum windows and doors.
Instead of wood-framed windows and doors, aluminum louvers were used.
On top of the newly reconstructed buildings, electrical upgrades, repair and replacement of air-conditioning units, lighting and plumbing repairs were implemented.
The two new buildings are equipped with new power/electrical units that will hep reduce power consumption.
Gov. Benigno R. Fitial, in his remarks, said the money spent for the reconstruction and improvement of GTC’s two building show “how federal funds are used prudently.”
“This is our commitment to the accountable use of federal funds for important infrastructure projects,” he added.
GTC is among the oldest schools on Saipan.
