Construction began this week at École Quadra Elementary, part of a $9-million seismic upgrade to the school, with completion to coincide with the school's 100th birthday in the Fall of 2014.

Under a project agreement signed by the Ministry of Education and the Greater Victoria board of education, the upgrade is part of the Province's continuing commitment to student safety through the Seismic Mitigation Program.

The school, originally opened in 1914, will see the addition of interior and exterior concrete shear walls, the removal of clay and brick chimneys, and reinforcing bars added to masonry walls.

École Quadra Elementary consists of four sections, all of which require seismic upgrading, except the 1974 gym addition, which was upgraded in 2003. The main building, consisting of eight classrooms and an auditorium, was completed in 1914. After a number of smaller additions, the school has a current enrolment of 305 K-5 students with capacity for 515.

During the school construction, students will attend the former Richmond Elementary for the 2013/2014 school year, with bussing provided. Richmond Elementary closed in 2004 due to declining enrolment and has been used in this way during three other seismic upgrades in the district, which shortened construction time, reduced costs and ensured staff and student safety.

Quadra Elementary is an important part of the district's education services. A broad curriculum is provided in both English and French. All grades receive specialized music instruction. The school also features a unique First Nations program for cultural awareness and academic assistance.

Quotes:

Peter Fassbender, Minister of Education:

"École Quadra Elementary is an historic building which has provided young learners with an enriched education pathway for a century. With the seismic upgrade, it will provide a safe facility that will continue to inspire students for generations to come."

Peg Orcherton, Greater Victoria school district board chair:

"I'm delighted the upgrades to École Quadra Elementary have begun. Student safety is a district priority and the Seismic Mitigation Program ensures every student feels safe at school. I can think of no better way to commemorate the school's 100th year than with these modern improvements."

Quick Facts:

• Since 2001, government has spent more than $2.5 billion to complete capital projects including 99 new and replacement schools, 151 additions, 27 renovations and 26 site acquisitions across BC. All new and replacement schools have been constructed to meet the latest seismic standards.

• Since 2001, the Province has committed more than $4.1 billion on school capital and maintenance projects throughout British Columbia.

Learn More:

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

École Quadra Elementary: http://www.sd61.bc.ca/school/quadra/

Media Contact:

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