Government is helping extend the life of B.C. schools with today’s investment of $40 million in the School Enhancement Program to help school districts repair, upgrade and improve their facilities.

Over the next week school districts throughout B.C. will be notified about how they can apply for funding under this program. Projects will be chosen based on need, priority and supporting student learning and must cost more than $100,000. All projects must be mostly completed by March 31, 2017.

The types of projects eligible for the funding include:

• Heating and ventilation upgrades;
• Roof repairs or replacement,
• Windows, lighting and electrical system upgrades, and
• Mechanical upgrades - including plumbing and boiler replacements,
• Safety enhancements - including fire protection.

This year’s $40-million School Enhancement Program builds on last year’s $35-million Routine Capital Program investment, which supported 109 school improvement projects throughout the province.

As a result of B.C.'s fiscal discipline and its balanced budget, the government is able to support key investments like the School Enhancement Program. Budget 2016 provides $1.7 billion in capital funding over three years to replace aging facilities, build more student spaces in growing communities and improve seismic safety.

Quotes:

Mike Bernier, Minister of Education –

“This fix-it-fund for schools will give school districts across the province the help they need to extend the life of schools – actions like fixing roofs, installing new heating equipment, and replacing windows. Not only will this help make schools more comfortable for students and staff, it’s also going to make sure we are protecting and enhancing infrastructure worth millions of dollars.”

Shawn Wilson, Surrey School Board chair –

“Keeping our schools modern and up-to-date benefits both staff and students. Here in Surrey previous funding from the Government of B.C. under this program made it possible for us to upgrade boilers, portables, roofs and other exterior upgrades to local schools.”

Teresa Rezansoff, president, the BC School Trustees Association –

“We are happy to see the ministry building upon what was a very successful program last year. Districts across the province welcome the capital dollars that will help us address needs within schools and other district buildings. We appreciate the work that school district staff has done, and will continue to do, to ensure that they meet the timelines and criteria for this program.”

Quick Facts:

• Districts have until Friday, April 15, 2016, to submit their proposed projects to the ministry. Successful applicants will be notified by May 31, 2016.
• Budget 2016 provides $1.7 billion over three years to replace aging facilities, build more student spaces in growing communities, and improve seismic safety.
• Since 2001, the Province has committed more than $4.2 billion in new and improved schools, including $2.2 billion in seismic upgrades.
• Since 2001, the Province has built 48 new schools, replaced 70 aging schools, added space at 186 schools and seismically upgraded 149 schools.

Learn More:

Last year’s projects: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2015EDUC0075-001895