The B.C. government is committing up to $5.6 million to partially replace Nicola-Canford Elementary so students can continue to learn in their hometown in the future, instead of travelling to another school every day. This project is part of the modular school pilot program announced by Education Minister Don McRae last September.

Nicola-Canford Elementary has served students for more than 50 years, but its condition is deteriorating. To rejuvenate the school, the Ministry of Education and the Nicola-Similkameen school district (SD 58) have signed a project agreement to replace eight existing classrooms with eight new modular classrooms. The estimated cost of this project is $7.1 million, including $1.4 million from the school board's restricted capital account. The school capacity will remain the same - currently the school can accommodate up to 170 students from kindergarten to Grade 7.

The ministry and district have been working closely with architects on the project plan to integrate the new classrooms seamlessly into the existing school structure. To achieve this, the connecting corridors between the new classrooms and the rest of the school will be renovated as well.

Compared to the aging classrooms at the school, the new modular classrooms will have high ceilings and large windows to provide plenty of natural light as well as cross-ventilation. B.C. wood will be used as much as possible to create natural accents inside the modulars.

With the agreement in hand, the district plans to begin construction this year with completion expected in fall 2014. The district will consult the community about relocating the students temporarily during the renovation.

Quotes:

Don McRae, Minister of Education -

"Schools are a vital part of rural communities. This is why we introduced the modular school pilot program last year, so we can update aging facilities in these communities for families."

"The partial replacement of Nicola-Canford Elementary is a great example of how we can retain existing structures by replacing old classrooms with new modulars. I am glad that we can improve this school to provide a safe and modern learning environment for children in Lower Nicola."

Gordon Comeau, Nicola-Similkameen board of education chair -

"School district 58 is excited to be partnering with the Ministry of Education in the Modular Classroom Project at Nicola-Canford Elementary school. Originally built in 1959, the school had received several upgrades to keep it functional for students."

"With the recent announcement regarding the modular classroom project, the district, families and community are looking forward to the replacement of the old structure with new, modern, modular buildings. The new school will be an attractive addition to the community."

Quick Facts:

• Since 2001, the Province has invested more than $312,000 for additional space for Full Day Kindergarten in SD 58.

• During this period, the government has spent more than $2.4 billion to complete 96 new and replacement schools, 151 additions, 27 renovations and 25 site acquisitions throughout B.C.

Learn More:

BC's Education Plan: http://www.bcedplan.ca

Media Contact:

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