SKEENA JUNIOR Secondary School is set to get $50,000 from the province for what’s described as playground equipment.
The school was one of 44 chosen as a top priority in B.C. for the money, the reason being that it is converting from a Grade 8-10 school to a Grade 7-9 school next year and does not have any playground equipment at all.
“We’re a junior school this year, but will be a middle school next year,” said principal Phillip Barron, adding that schools have to fight hard for provincial money and that makes this an exceptionally exciting experience.
The money is being provided specifically for play-style structures, and although these are often associated with elementary aged students, they do benefit those of middle-school age and also children in the community.
Barron added that play-style structures help students socialize with others outside their class by giving outlets for games and interaction.
And before construction, it will also give students a chance to add input on their vision for the structures’ design.
Parents, teachers, students and staff will work on deciding what to do with the money, he said.
“It will give the Grade 10 students an opportunity to create a lasting legacy at their school,” added vice principal Cory Killoran.
Barron added that more money could also be raised if needed, but that ultimately, $50,000 is an exciting amount of money.
And while a construction deadline hasn’t been set just yet, Barron said ideally it would start next summer to be ready for next September.
The cash comes from an $8 million provincial program meant to install or improve playground equipment in elementary and middle schools across B.C. In all, 1,347 schools were looked at and 44 chosen as a top priority due to a lack of equipment.