Two schools in the Peace region awarded funding for playgrounds

UPPER HALFWAY, B.C. – The Province has announced playground funding for 60 schools across British Columbia, including two schools in the Peace region.

Upper Halfway Elementary in School District 60 and Devereaux Elementary in School District 59 will each be receiving $165,000 for a new playground.

This funding, a total of $10 million from the Province, will help schools design playgrounds that will support accessibility for all students.

Toad River Elementary-Secondary in Fort Nelson also received playground funding.

“We cannot underestimate the vital link between play and learning. Students are more focused in class when outdoor play is part of their school routine, and they learn important life skills like co-operation and patience while improving their major motor skills,” said Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Education.

“Doubling our playground fund investment helps support students, staff, families, and communities, and takes the fundraising burden off parents so they can spend more time playing with their children.”

The 2021-22 funding received a one-time $5 million boost compared to previous years, and funding for each school has been increased by $40,000 to $165,000 to help support accessible components like ground cover, ramps, and transfer platforms.

According to the Province, every school district in B.C. has now received at least one new playground through the Playground Equipment Program (PEP).  School districts are able to apply for PEP funding from the ministry each year.

This is the second set of funding Upper Halfway has received this year.

Last month, the Province announced a $5.72 million investment to build a new gymnasium for the school. School District 60 will be pitching in $29,000. Construction is expected to begin in the spring of 2022.