A $5.28-million project agreement was announced today by Nechako Lakes MLA John Rustad and Nechako Lakes board chair Steve Davis. The rural community of Granisle is receiving new modular classrooms to replace part of Babine Elementary-Secondary.

This new five-classroom modular project is part of the B.C. government’s $16.91-million modular school pilot program to renew aging infrastructures in rural B.C.

Currently, 33 students are enrolled in kindergarten-to-Grade 12 at Babine Elementary-Secondary. The school opened its doors in 1967 to accommodate Granisle’s then rapidly growing population. Given declining enrolment rates and the building’s deteriorating condition, newly designed modular classrooms were determined as the best solution to revitalize the local school.

The modular classrooms will continue to accommodate students in kindergarten to Grade 12. They will feature a bright, open design with high ceilings and windows for plenty of natural light. In contrast to portables, modular classrooms are a more permanent solution to providing school space and have a designed 40-year life span.

In addition to Babine Elementary-Secondary, the B.C. government is also using modular classrooms in Nicola-Similkameen and Prince George to provide new, modern learning environments for students in small communities.

Quotes:

Don McRae, Minister of Education -

“Schools are often the heart of a community especially in small towns like Granisle. I’m thrilled that Nechako Lakes Board of Education and Granisle residents are part of government’s modular school pilot program. Babine’s students and staff will have a safe, modern school close to home.”

John Rustad, MLA for Nechako Lakes -

“The Babine Elementary-Secondary school replacement has been a high priority for me. I know the installation of new modular classroom space means a great deal to Granisle and Tachet reserve families, and I’m delighted that students will be educated in a safe and bright learning environment.”

Steve Davis, Nechako Lakes school district board chair -

“We are extremely pleased to be working with government to provide the students and community members of the Granisle/Tachet area with a new and renovated building. This will provide a better environment to enhance the great learning we already see happening in that school. With this fresh start we hope to be able to start implementing even more 21st century practices that will prepare the students and community for the exciting opportunities of the future.”

Quick Facts:

• Granisle is a village on Babine Lake in the Northern Interior of B.C.

• Since 2001, the Province has invested more than $15.9 million in capital projects in the Nechako Lakes school district for the new Decker Lake Elementary and the replacement of Lakes District Secondary school.

• During the same period, more than $4 billion has been committed to school capital and maintenance projects throughout British Columbia.

Learn More:

BC’s Education Plan: www.bcedplan.ca

School District 91: http://www.sd91.bc.ca/

Contact:

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