Minister of Education Mike Bernier joined students, teachers, parents and local government officials today for the grand opening of the new $52.5-million Oak Bay High school.

This new school boasts many features:

• Accommodates 1,300 students,
• 420-seat community performing arts theatre,
• Fully lit, artificial turf playing field,
• Wireless projectors that allow students and teachers to broadcast assignments to Apple TVs in every classroom and show high resolution video and images for sports and community events in the gymnasium,
• High-tech cushioned flooring in the gymnasium, dance studio and drama room,
• Open-concept stairway where students can plug in their electronic devices and connect in person,
• Natural light and smart lights to reduce energy costs,
• Smart sinks and water stations to reduce water consumption, and
• Computer labs on every floor.

Oak Bay High’s flexible new learning environment supports B.C.’s revised curriculum being phased in at schools throughout the province over the next three years. The curriculum provides a flexible and innovative way to help B.C. students gain the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.

(flickr.com)

Quotes:

Mike Bernier, Minister of Education –

“Government is committed to supporting students and teachers while improving B.C.’s education system. The new Oak Bay High provides students with a safe, flexible and modern learning environment helping them succeed for generations to come.”

Edith Loring-Kuhanga, Victoria board of education chair –

“The Greater Victoria school board is enthusiastic that our students will be able to explore excellence and 21st Century learning in the Oak Bay High school. This state-of-art facility demonstrates true excellence and partnerships between the school and community where our students will be motivated and inspired for generations to come.”

Quick Facts:

• Construction of the new $52.5-million Oak Bay High began on July 5, 2013.
• This school was built to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)® Gold standards.
• New building is 17,700 square metres (more than 190,000 square feet)
• Neighbourhood Learning Centre is 1,766 square metres (about 19,000 square feet)
• The school district funded 100 additional spaces for international students from its local capital reserve.
• The District of Oak Bay contributed $1 million to build the community performing arts theatre.

Learn More:

Oak Bay High (new school website): http://www.oakbayhigh.com/

New curriculum: https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/