NEW WESTMINSTER – New Democrat MLA Judy Darcy says students in New Westminster are going to see more green, efficient and safe learning spaces thanks to over $1.2 million in provincial funding for school upgrade projects in SD 40.
“Students in our community deserve learning environments that will help them reach their full potential,” said Judy Darcy, MLA for New Westminster. “These upgrades to four schools in New Westminster are another important way we’re investing in the next generation.”
The New Westminster School District (SD 40) is receiving $1,266,920 in funding for school maintenance projects, including:
- Connaught Heights Elementary
- Air handler upgrades
- W. Howay Elementary
- Air handler upgrades
- Glenbrook Middle
- Flooring upgrades
- Roof replacements
- Herbert Spencer Elementary
- Roof replacements
These funding programs are part of a $217.7 million investment under the Annual Facilities Grant (AFG), School Enhancement Program, Carbon Neutral Capital Program, Building Envelope Program and Bus Acquisition Program, to ensure students have well-maintained learning environments and bus services that are safe, comfortable and efficient. This year’s funding is $32.3 million higher than it was in 2016/17.
After years of underfunding by the previous BC Liberal government, the New Democrat government is delivering an historic level of support to BC students. The New Democrat government has added an extra $2.2 billion in operating funding over 2016/17 levels and created a $2.8 billion school capital budget to build, seismically upgrade and expand K-12 schools. To ensure students have a safe place to play, an annual playground fund has been introduced, delivering an additional $5 million a year to districts across the province.
Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020EDUC0016-000410