Construction of the $15.4-million, 21-classroom replacement school for Sir James Douglas Elementary has reached its midway point on time and on budget.

The school is on target to open for the start of the 2013 school year with a capacity for 585 kindergarten-to-Grade 7 students, helping to meet enrolment demands in the Vancouver school district.

The new Sir James Douglas Elementary will be home to a Neighbourhood Learning Centre, offering community focused services. Community partners are working together to decide which programs will best serve local families and the neighbourhood. Possible uses include early learning or child-care programs, space for non-profit organizations, health clinics, sports programs, family resource or seniors' centres.

After examining the high costs required to upgrade the original 1910 school building, a full replacement was determined as the best choice for the community. The replacement school is being built to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Gold standards (LEED) and maximizes the use of wood in support of B.C.'s Wood First Act.

Quick Facts:

• Since 2001, 40 capital and seismic projects worth more than $188 million have been completed in the Vancouver school district.

• Over the past year, the B.C. government has committed $353 million in funding for new school and school expansion projects and more than $122 million as part of its seismic mitigation program to provide structural upgrades at 14 high-priority schools.

• Since 2001, the B.C. government has spent more than $2.1 billion to complete 93 new and replacement schools, 150 additions, 27 renovations and 22 site acquisitions.

Learn more:

Sir James Douglas new school building plan: http://go.vsb.bc.ca/schools/douglas/Publications/Douglas%20New%20School%20Building%20Plan.pdf

Neighbourhood Learning Centres: www.neighbourhoodlearningcentres.gov.bc.ca/

BC's Education Plan: www.bcedplan.ca

Contact:

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