A new school for Kindergarten to grade 7 students in Fernie is on the horizon.
B.C. officials said the new Southeast Kootenay School District (SD5) facility will have room for almost 300 students.
“Our government is continuing to invest in schools as more cities like Fernie welcome new students to their classrooms,” said Rachna Singh, Minister of Education and Child Care.
“A new elementary school will provide the support and space this growing community needs and will benefit students and families for many years to come.”
The B.C. government said the province is providing over $33 million towards the project, with $200,000 coming from SD5.
The new school will include a learning centre, providing space for Indigenous education and a warming kitchen to support community services.
B.C. officials said it might even include a childcare centre to support Fernie families.
Now that funding has been approved, the project has moved into the design phase, with plans to incorporate greenhouse gas reduction measures.
“We are excited to receive approval for a new elementary school in Fernie,” said Doug McPhee, Southeast Kootenay School District Board Chair.
“This investment addresses the growing population in this community and the efforts of district staff, whose dedication has been pivotal in achieving this milestone.”
The school, which has not been given a name yet, is expected to be ready for students by 2027.
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