October 3, 2012

Modular school planned

A new modular school will be built in Giscome, B.C. to replace an elementary school that was demolished this summer, as part of a new provincial government initiative to renew aging infrastructures in rural areas.

“The Giscome school replacement has been a priority for me. It is great news for the students and their families that they will be part of the modular school replacement program,” said Shirley Bond, MLA for Prince George-Valemount in a press release.

The Prince George school district is working with the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George to determine a location for the new modular school.

This facility is part of the government’s $10 million modular school replacement pilot program to renew aging infrastructures in rural B.C.

The new modular Giscome Elementary will continue to accommodate students in kindergarten to Grade 7.

In 2009, the Prince George board of education voted to close the school due to its deteriorating conditions and declining student enrolment. After consultation with residents, portable classrooms were put on site so students can continue to learn in their community, instead of travelling to Prince George. In contrast to portables, modular classrooms are a permanent solution for school space and have a 40-year life span. They feature bright, open designs with high ceilings and windows for plenty of natural light and cross-ventilation. The Giscome school will also utilize B.C. wood as much as possible.

In addition to Giscome Elementary, the B.C. government also is creating modular schools in Nisga’a, Nechako Lakes and Nicola-Similkameen. These schools are expected to open in September 2013.

JOC DIGITAL MEDIA

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