The Provincial government has increased capital funding for school divisions by $250 million to help boost the economy, while also speeding up maintenance to existing schools.

“We’re getting Albertans back to work by investing in hundreds of infrastructure and renewal projects in schools across the province. This is great news for staff and students who will benefit from more modern learning environment," says Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Education.

School divisions will be asked for input in how to invest the money in the most efficient and effective ways possible.

Grande Prairie Public School Division was approved for $3,028,000, Grande Prairie Catholic School Division for $2,500,000, Peace River School Division for $2,500,000, and Peace Wapiti School Division for $2,100,000. 

Specific projects will be confirmed by the start of June.

The majority of projects are anticipated to be completed by October.

Approved projects must align with the requirements of Alberta Education’s Infrastructure Maintenance and Renewal program and fall into certain categories. These are building envelope (e.g., roofs, doors, windows, exterior finishes), mechanical (e.g., plumbing, heating and ventilation), electrical (e.g., lighting upgrades), structural (e.g., foundations), site improvements (e.g., parking lot repair, regrading for drainage) and interior upgrades.

Lorrie Jess, president of the Alberta School Boards Association, commented, “The Alberta School Boards Association is pleased with this additional investment by the provincial government, as schools are the heart of our local communities. This provides timely support as many school boards face challenges with aging facilities."

The work is expected to create about 3,750 jobs.