Governor Maximiliano Pullaro officially opened the new Kindergarten Nº 205 "María Montessori" building on Thursday.
The construction began in 2023, paused, and resumed in 2024 under the current administration.
The building includes four connected classrooms with private bathrooms, intended for 3 to 5-year-olds, accommodating 80 children per shift. The Provincial Government invested $1,200 million.
Pullaro announced: "In the first three months, we inaugurated 17 schools in Santa Fe province after years without new schools due to a lack of political will for infrastructure investment. Our aim is to provide a friendly environment for learning."
During the event, Pullaro stated: "In the first three months of this year, we have already inaugurated 17 schools in the province of Santa Fe. For many years, there were no new school inaugurations due to the lack of political commitment to invest in educational infrastructure. It is crucial for us that children, teachers, school assistants, educators, professors, and families can learn in a supportive environment. Our aim is to provide a friendly environment for learning.”
"This administration has recognized the need for fiscal discipline and prudence during Argentina's challenging times. Today, we are pleased to inaugurate this facility, along with 480 classrooms that are either completed or in progress, ensuring the educational system is equipped with the necessary infrastructure. Additionally, we have addressed repairs in 1,900 school buildings through programs and funds from the Immediate Needs Assistance Fund (FANI). Our commitment to collaborating with the educational community and families demonstrates that education can overcome any obstacle," stated the governor.
Ensuring the fulfilment of our commitments
Minister of Education José Goity emphasized the importance of fulfilling commitments and completing initiated projects through integrated government efforts. He acknowledged the educational community, parents, local mobilizers, and the Ministry of Public Works for their coordinated teamwork with the Ministry of Education in achieving these goals.
"We are embarking on a journey that is leading us to a new destination, and more importantly, it is beginning to restore our confidence in the education system, the province, and our representatives," stated Goity.
The senator for the department of La Capital, Julio Garibaldi, stated that "this recognition reflects the accomplishments and dedication of its directors and teachers. Every new project is worth celebrating, but educational initiatives are especially significant. This indicates that we are progressing in the right direction."
The mayor of Santa Fe, Juan Pablo Poletti, thanked the minister and governor for the new kindergarten building, saying it's a dignified and healthy place for children to build their dreams.
Finally, Manuela Loza, headteacher of the kindergarten, emphasized their duty to children, valuing the experiences of students and their potential impact on society. She noted the difficulty in summarizing the long history and contributions of the institution and its members. “I want to value the experience of what our students learn, what they can contribute and the future changes they can make in our society", she concluded.
The work
Within an area of 665 square metres, four classrooms equipped with private toilets, office space, and necessary equipment have been constructed. Additionally, a multipurpose room prominently situated near the entrance, an open facade facing the main courtyard, and an administrative sector including porter's lodge, security services, and outdoor facilities were established. All pathways are designed to be accessible and free from architectural barriers. Entry is provided through a square-shaped space.
Additionally, works included pavement and piping improvements on a 60-metre section of Demetrio Gómez Street, as well as installing solar panels, solar water heaters, and rainwater recovery systems for sanitary use.
The ceremony was attended by the Minister of Government and Public Innovation, Fabián Bastia; the Secretary General of the Government, Juan Cruz Cándido; the secretaries of the Ministry of Education, María Martín, Carolina Piedrabuena, and Florencia González; the provincial deputy, Pablo Farías; and the president of the Municipal Council, Adriana Molina.
