This September, every student at BX Elementary in Vernon will have a classroom space thanks to a new 10-classroom addition with room for 240 more students, eliminating the need for portables.  

“Seeing children arrive for the first day of school is always a pleasure, and for students and staff at BX Elementary, coming into a newly expanded building makes it even more exciting,” said Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Education. “We know the Central Okanagan is a vibrant and growing region, and we are making good progress in reducing portables and providing students the permanent and positive learning experience they deserve.”

The Government of B.C. provided more than $9.4 million for the expansion project and the school district contributed $425,000.

The school was using five portables, which would likely have doubled in 10 years. With this addition, the school is expected to have the capacity to accommodate anticipated future community growth. There are now 23 classrooms at BX Elementary, with capacity for 560 students.

“We’re really excited to welcome back our BX Elementary students into a school that has had fabulous additional classrooms, as well as minor renovations,” said Gen Acton, board chair, Vernon School Board. “After a number of years housing some students in portables, this will allow students to come together as a BX family.”

Harwinder Sandhu, MLA for Vernon-Monashee, said, “The beauty and quality of life in Vernon continue to attract new residents every year, and this school addition shows we are committed to supporting families now and into the future. Investments like this are a part of how we build a strong and successful future in our community.”

Budget 2021 includes almost $3.5 billion for school capital investments, including new and expanded schools, seismic upgrades and replacements, and site purchases to ensure land is in place to accommodate fast-growing communities throughout the province.

Learn More:

For more information about Vernon School District 22, visit: https://sd22.bc.ca/

For more information about major public school capital projects underway, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/k-12/administration/capital/major-capital-projects