Recess, lunchtime, and after-school hangouts are about to get a lot more exciting for young students in Prince George.
Van Bien Elementary has been granted $90,000 for a new standard playground today (March 15) by the B.C. government.
The Ministry of Education is footing the bill for 50 projects and upgrades altogether in several districts across the province, including School District 57 (SD57), totalling $5 million.
“As a parent, I understand first-hand how tough it can be for schools and parents to find the time and volunteers to fundraise for playground equipment and activities,” said Education Minister Rob Fleming in a release. “Our government is committed to improving the learning environment at B.C. schools; safe, fun and accessible playgrounds are very much part of delivering on this commitment. And to make this happen, parents should not have to become dedicated fundraisers in their spare time.”
Each year, school districts apply for the funding and playgrounds projects are based on greatest need, mainly given to schools where there is no playground, then to ones that are aging.
Valemount Elementary, also part of SD57’s regional catchment, will also receive $90,000 for a new playground themselves.
Van Bien is the latest of Prince George institutions to receive provincial funding for some much-needed enhancements.
Earlier this month, Heather Park, Foothills, Spruceland, and Peden Hill Elementary schools were granted over $1.5 million for upgrades that included dust collection, a new electrical transformer, and a heating boiler plant replacement.
