Powell River’s little school with big heart will be going under the knife this summer as the provincial government tries to improve its ability to withstand an earthquake.
Henderson Elementary School will undergo extensive upgrades to bring it up to the latest seismic standards. School District 47 and the ministry of education signed a $3-million agreement last month.
“Safety is a priority and we are continuing the important work of upgrading BC schools to the highest standards so that young learners can study and grow in safe comfortable surroundings,” said Peter Fassbender, minister of education, in a media release announcing the project.
Built in 1958, the wood-frame school has foundation walls constructed of unreinforced concrete block.
According to the ministry, the project entails replacing some of the school’s walls, reinforcing others and improving connections throughout the school. The school district also plans on upgrading Henderson’s windows.
Powell River Board of Education chair Jeannette Scott said the board was pleased the project had been approved.
Construction of the year-long project is set to begin this summer when school lets out and will be ready for September 2015. Three portable classrooms will be set up at the school to accommodate students during the 2014/2015 school year. The school currently has a capacity for 20 kindergarten and 150 students.
One hundred and two high-risk schools remain on the ministry’s seismic upgrade list with an estimated cost of $600 million.
