Funding for a replacement elementary school in Fernie is imminent, according to the Southeast Kootenay school district.
Earlier this month, the B.C. Government announced just over $1.75 million for energy upgrades, maintenance projects and a new bus for School District 5 (SD5).
LOOK BACK: School district receives funding for maintenance projects
Fernie was a big winner with Fernie Secondary to receive a roof and mechanical system upgrade under the School Enhancement Program, and LED lighting to be installed at Isabella Dicken Elementary School (IDES).
One new bus is also being purchased under a bus acquisition program.
In total, the District will receive $1,759,287 for the projects as part of a $206 million investment by the B.C. Government in schools upgrades across the province.
SD5 Board Chair Frank Lento said the funding will go towards fixing a leaky roof at Fernie Secondary and reducing energy costs at IDES.
All projects will go out to tender and must be completed by March 2020.
Lento is confident this announcement will soon be followed by major capital funding for a replacement school in Fernie.
IDES has long outgrown its current facility and has had to rely on portable classrooms to accommodate growth.
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At the start of the 2018/19 school year, it had 472 enrollments – 28 more than projected – with 75 students in Grade 1 alone.
The plight of IDES and Cranbrook’s Mount Baker Secondary School, which has also been earmarked for replacement, was recently highlighted in a report to government.
LOOK BACK: Plight of Fernie school highlighted in budget report
“It’s vital for us to continue to maintain our facilities, so we’re excited about that and we’re hopeful and optimistic that there’s going to be a major capital announcement very shortly, within the next week,” said Lento.