Several communities across British Columbia are opening new schools and expanding existing ones to meet growing demand. Thousands more student spaces are also under construction as part of the province’s effort to modernize and increase classroom capacity.
“We’ve been working hard to build and deliver new schools to meet the needs of students now and in the future,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure. “Our historic investments in school infrastructure are already making a meaningful difference for B.C. students, and we look forward to welcoming young learners into even more brand-new classrooms this fall.”
In Langford, one of B.C.’s fastest-growing cities, a new Elementary School will open its doors this September. The school will provide 480 seats for students in kindergarten through Grade 5.
Camille McFarlane, the school’s principal, said the facility will be more than just a place to learn.
“SĆIȺNEW̱ SṮEȽIṮḴEȽ Elementary reflects the exciting growth of our community,” McFarlane said. “This school will be a place where students can thrive, build friendships and learn while honouring the stories and traditions of this land.”
In Trail, a full replacement school has been built for Glenmerry Elementary, increasing total capacity from 270 to 435 seats — an addition of 165 new student spaces.
“I am thrilled for students in Trail to attend the new and expanded Glenmerry Elementary,” said Steve Morissette, MLA for Kootenay-Monashee. “With before- and after-school care provided by the new school’s neighbourhood learning centre, this investment will make a real difference in supporting our growing community in the Kootenays.”
Several existing schools are also receiving upgrades to expand capacity:
Abbotsford: Auguston Traditional Elementary and Margaret Stenerson Elementary will add a combined total of 360 new seats.
Delta: Ladner Elementary is adding 150 new seats.
Kelowna: Chief Tomat Elementary will expand by 165 seats.
Richmond: R.C. Talmey Elementary is adding 150 seats.
“Families in Delta deserve access to quality education close to home,” said Ravi Kahlon, MLA for Delta North. “By adding 150 new seats at Ladner Elementary, we’re making sure more students can learn in safe, modern classrooms, while helping address the growing demand in our community.”
Kelly Greene, MLA for Richmond-Steveston, said the upgrades will bring long-term benefits.
“The addition at R.C. Talmey means more students can learn in modern and safe environments right in their own neighbourhoods,” Greene said. “Our government’s historic investments in education are having a real impact, and I’m excited to see students and communities in Richmond already experiencing the benefits.”
Surrey will also see an additional 700 student seats this fall, with more expansions planned in Langley to keep up with rapid population growth.
Lisa Beare, Minister of Education and Child Care, said creating modern learning environments is a key part of student success.
“Creating the right learning environment is essential to student success,” Beare said. “I’m thrilled to see these investments making a real difference for students throughout the province, and I look forward to welcoming students back to classes for another great school year.”
Since 2017, the province has committed more than $6 billion to school capital projects. These investments have created nearly 43,000 new student spaces and 39,000 seismically safe seats. The government continues to work with school districts and municipalities to ensure students have access to safe, modern classrooms as B.C.’s population grows.
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