With its heritage features enhanced, a safer, brighter, greener Laura Secord Elementary was put on proud display for the school's official reopening.

Students, staff and district officials came together for a celebration highlighted by a play featuring a student portraying Canadian War of 1812 heroine Laura Secord, the school's namesake.

Total cost of updating the school was $24.75 million and the project created an estimated 160 jobs. Some of the new features are:

• A Neighbourhood Learning Centre for community use.
• Seismic upgrading.
• An energy-efficient heating and ventilation system to reduce operating costs and increase comfort.
• A display in the hallway where students can monitor the school's energy consumption.
• Refurbished heritage elements throughout the school.
• More natural light, extensive use of wood and improved acoustics.

The Neighbourhood Learning Centre has many uses including:

• Before and after-school day care (as provided by Cedar Cottage Neighbourhood House) for a licensed capacity of 60.
• Early learning space.
• Music room - used by the school and outside groups.
• Lunch room - used by the school.
• Multi-purpose room - music and choral performances as well as physical activities or additional gym space.
• Full kitchen - adjacent to the multi-purpose room.

Quick Facts:

• This school includes a Neighbourhood Learning Centre (NLC). These centres provide space for community groups and services.
• There are currently 17 NLCs in various stages of construction as part of capital projects at B.C. schools.
• All school districts are encouraged to adopt this inclusive approach to planning the use of school space by including elements of NLCs that offer community programs and services in new and replacement schools.
• Following the 75th reunion (1988), an alumni association and newsletter were organized and thrived for years as the 'only alumni association in Canada for an elementary school'.

Learn More:

http://secord.vsb.bc.ca/

http://www.neighbourhoodlearningcentres.gov.bc.ca/

Contact:

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Education
250 356-5963