Students at Kirkland Lake District Composite School have a new place to play, connect and build community pride, thanks to a $600,000 contribution from Agnico Eagle. The company’s donation helped bring The Eagle’s Nest Multi-Sport Court to life, providing students with an upgraded outdoor basketball court. For Grade 11 student Penny, the new space means more students can enjoy the game, even if they aren’t part of a school team. “This is great. Honestly, like, I just love playing basketball, and there’s some kids who don’t get to … because they’re not on teams necessarily to play in the big gym,” she said. “So this is really great for the kids who aren’t on the teams to play basketball out here because it’s open for anyone.” The facility is about more than sports, said Agnico Eagle spokesperson Cameron Grant. “This investment shows our pride in the community,” Grant said. “Also potentially (it’s) a pathway into introducing kids to the mining sector and how those look like real, viable, comfortable careers going forward.” Teacher Dan Kurz said the court sends a powerful message to students about their value and potential. “Like it says on the sign, this project was made by people who believe in the students,” said Kurz. “I think that’s what we’re seeing here today is the students are excited. They know that people believe in them, that they’re worth investing in and it’s pretty great.” Lesleigh Dye, director of education for District School Board Ontario North East, said a contribution of this scale is uncommon for the board. “Support of this scale would be unusual for us and we are just delighted,” said Dye. The school hopes the new outdoor facilities will also provide opportunities for tournaments and community use. Kurz said he hopes to develop outdoor learning spaces, incorporating trees, rocks and other natural features to make the grounds more welcoming. A beach volleyball court and soccer pitch are also being developed next to the court. The company’s investment in Kirkland Lake extends beyond the school grounds. Agnico Eagle is planning a housing development in the community’s Premier Heights area on Premier Avenue West, with around 300 units planned to help support future projects and the workforce needed to build them. “We’re working closely with the contractors and partners,” Grant said. “We had some initial discussions at the Kirkland Lake city council, and so some of that information was there. But what I can say is just stay tuned.” A firm construction timeline has not been confirmed. The two initiatives highlight different aspects of investment in Kirkland Lake: creating opportunities for local students today while preparing for potential workforce needs in the years ahead.
