Government is once again helping school districts extend the life of B.C. schools with an additional $20 million to repair, upgrade and improve facilities through the School Enhancement Program.

The new funding builds on $45 million the province invested this May in 124 schools throughout British Columbia.

School districts can resubmit previous applications or apply for funding for new projects. The program has also been expanded to include flooring replacement as an eligible project.

School districts are being notified how they can apply for funding under the program. Projects will be chosen based on need, priority and supporting student learning. Projects must cost between $100,000 and $3 million to be eligible. Districts have until Sept. 15, 2016 to apply and all projects must be substantially completed by March 31, 2017.

The types of projects eligible for the funding include:

• plumbing, boiler, and other mechanical upgrades
• heating and ventilation upgrades
• roof repairs or replacement
• windows, lighting and electrical system upgrades
• safety enhancements – including fire protection
• flooring replacement

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

Quotes:

Mike Bernier, Minister of Education –

“Over the past two years we’ve been able to invest $80 million in our School Enhancement Program to help districts extend the lives of their schools. It’s an investment that will pay dividends for parents and students, for taxpayers, and for school districts well into the future.”

Quick Facts:

• The 2015-16 School Enhancement Program (called the Routine Capital Program at the time) invested $35-million to support 109 school improvement projects.
• The initial 2016-17 School Enhancement Program provided $45 million in May to fund 80 projects with upgrades to 124 schools.