The Southeast Kootenay School District is receiving provincial grant funding of $2.7 million for capital upgrades to school facilities in Cranbrook and Elkford, as well as the addition of a bus to the fleet.
Funds have been earmarked for plumbing upgrades at Mount Baker Secondary School in Cranbrook, while Elkford Elementary Secondary will be receiving HVAC upgrades, according to a news release.
Elsewhere, the electrical upgrades are coming to core SD5 facilities, as well as kitchen equipment to a SD5 core building.
“I am proud of the work our government continues to do, making historic investments in upgrading schools throughout B.C.,” said Rachna Singh, Minister of Education and Child Care. “As we support school districts to undertake school renovations and add infrastructure, we are ensuring that our kids have clean, safe, modern places to learn and grow.”
Funding was announced through a few different streams; School Enhancement Program, Carbon Neutral Capital Program, Food Infrastructure Program and the Bus Acquisition Program.
The province says it is providing $291.9 million in the 2024 budget for school maintenance projects aimed at making schools more energy efficient and climate resilient.
“Boards of education welcome the Province’s commitment to making schools more energy efficient and climate resilient,” said Carolyn Broady, president, BC School Trustees Association. “These upgrades will benefit students across British Columbia and contribute to our collective efforts in addressing climate change. Boards appreciate receiving funding through the annual facilities grant and for school maintenance, and will continue to support future investments in our public schools.”