Paterson, NJ (April 6, 2005) - Paterson's young students will begin a lifetime of learning thanks to today's ribbon-cutting for a new, state-of-the-art elementary schools that bears the name of one of baseball's legends, Pittsburgh Pirates standout Roberto Clemente.

Students, teachers and community supporters joined representatives of the Paterson School District, the City of Paterson, and New Jersey Schools Construction Corporation (SCC) for a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Roberto Clemente Elementary School.

Named for the late baseball star who was respected equally for his civic and charitable work in the community as well as his stellar play on the diamond, this $32.8 million facility will feature a number of elements designed to serve local residents, including a community center, community workroom, outdoor play equipment area, basketball court, and community meeting room.

The Elementary School is approximately 109,042 square feet with 31 classrooms, a gymnasium, cafetorium, media center, art, music, technology, and life skills rooms, and science and computer labs. The Roberto Clemente Elementary School provides educational opportunities for just over 700 students. Designed by the architectural firm of Einhorn Yaffee Prescott and built by VRH Construction Corporation, this is one of the first elementary schools to open in Paterson in more than fifteen years.

School Superintendent Dr. Dennis J. Clancy stated, "Any construction or renovation project requires vision, commitment, and belief, in this case, that the education of our children is important and our children are important for the future of our country and our community. I have seen firsthand what hard work, cooperation, and vision can do for a community, and I have seen it here in Paterson. The efforts of local, state, and education officials in making this elementary school a reality have been tireless. Their dedication ensures a bright future for the next generation of Paterson's leaders. The ribbon cutting for the new Roberto Clemente Elementary School truly marks a major step forward in shaping the future of the City of Paterson."

John F. Spencer, SCC Chief Executive Officer, remarked, "As we cut the ribbon on this new Early Childhood Center, we are proud to share in this great day for all of Paterson. This project will benefit students, teachers and the community at large. The SCC is providing high-performance schools that will help transform the future for our young people. Our schools are designed to give students a leg up on learning in academic environments that promote achievement."

As it begins its third year of operations, the SCC has committed support to more than 2,700 school construction projects affecting nearly 1,800 schools, completed $660 million in health and safety projects at more than 350 urban schools, and is making tremendous progress in the building of much-needed quality schools statewide. The SCC is also building early childhood education centers, launching school-based community revitalization efforts, and strengthening the economy through the creation of employment and business opportunities.