Students and staff are returning to safer classrooms now that seismic upgrades are complete at James McKinney Elementary School.
“A great school is at the heart of any strong community, and our government’s work to invest in schools is one of the many ways we are improving the lives of families in British Columbia,” said Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Education and Childcare. “In September, students across British Columbia are returning to new and improved schools. We are proud of the work we have done to provide students with better places to learn, and we will continue to work closely with school boards to make investments that provide students with the best educational experience possible.
The province has invested $12.6 million to upgrade James McKinney Elementary School and create a safer learning environment for 395 students. The investment is part of nearly $115 million the government has approved for earthquake upgrades and replacements at 10 Richmond schools since 2017, which will provide 5,100 students with a safer place to learn.
“I am thrilled to see students and staff returning to a safer school from earthquakes,” said Kelly Greene, MP for Richmond-Steveston. “I’m proud of the investments our government has made to meet Richmond’s unique earthquake needs and how they are improving the lives of families in this city.
These projects are part of the province’s work with BC school districts to provide students with access to earthquake-resistant seating. Over the past four years, the BC government has approved more than $1.2 billion in seismic upgrades or replacements to 59 schools across the province, so more than 32,000 students can be better off. protected at school.
“The earthquake-resistant upgrades at James McKinney Elementary School provide our students and staff with a safe and inspiring learning environment,” said Sandra Nixon, Chair of the Richmond School District Board. “We are proud of what the Richmond Board of Education has accomplished in advocating for seismically improved schools in our community, and we will continue to work alongside government to ensure investments continue to be made in our schools.
Budget 2022 includes $3.1 billion for school capital projects over the next three years, including new and expanded schools, earthquake upgrades and replacements, and land purchases for future schools .
A backgrounder follows.
