An oasis in RRHS

An oasis—a retreat, a refuge, a haven, a sanctuary. There’s one in Rainy River—the central courtyard at the Rainy River High School. Long overlooked, it’s in for a major upgrade to increase its usability and use.
Raised as a positive goal by the RRHS Council, said chair Peggy Advent, two years of planning are bearing concrete results—literally.
John Laplante’s Grade 9 shop class as a bonus project designed and built 10 concrete benches with beautifully inlaid original stained glass design.
“Kalan Ewald, our Grade 12 co-op student was invaluable in setting up this project. He carried out the design and mold construction, as well as the prototype testing,” explained Laplante, showing off the initial benches, and the imperfections the students had to correct in final designs.
Correct concrete mixes, compaction techniques, and sealants as well as background colours are just some of the consideration.
One of the most striking unique bench designs is the work of Adrian Vandenbrand and Mitch Haw of Stratton. It depicts the RRHS owl mascot and different sports.
“Next year, we hope to expand the project with our Grade 11 design class to make additional benches for the courtyard,” said Laplante.
As an ongoing fundraising project individuals may also order benches for their own properties for a nominal fee. Order requests may be placed with the RRHS office.
This project would not have happened without the generous help with supplies and equipment from local contractors Jack Vandenbrand (Stratton), John Sinninghe (Rainy River), Shane McQuaker (Emo), Telford Advent (Stratton), and of course Cam Belluz Masonry of Fort Frances who supplied the special cement and invaluable expert tips, said Laplante.
But the courtyard project doesn’t end with benches. New entrances are planned with the doors supplied by the Rainy River District School Board, being installed this summer by volunteers—a parent and a contractor. The weathered concrete is to be replaced with interlocking paving stones to make the courtyard handicapped accessible.
Two clematis vines, currently with spectacular blooms, demonstrate the potential of the microclimate this oasis provides.
Local landscape contractors have put forward suggestions on additional shrubbery and other vegetation to enhance the aesthetics of area and take advantage of the microclimate. An automated weather station, and raised beds will provide additional opportunity for scientific studies by the student body, said Advent.
All this is being accomplished by a lot of elbow grease and ongoing fund raising by the school council. Total cost of the project is currently estimated at between $15,000-25,000 dollars. They could use your support and input. RRHS alumni are particularly asked for their ideas, Advent added. She may be emailed at: Padvent_courtyard@live.ca
The RRHS Council, a group consisting of parents, community members, principal, staff and student representatives will begin meetings again this fall, tentatively on the third Monday of each month. The exact meeting date and time will be advertised.