The B.C. government is building 50 new playgrounds in 34 school districts this year, announced Rob Fleming, Minister of Education this morning.

Included in this announcement is $105,000 for Southeast Kootenay School District (School District No. 5) for an accessible playground at Isabella Dicken Elementary School in Fernie.

“As a parent, I understand first-hand how tough it can be for schools and parents to find the time and volunteers to fundraise for playground equipment and activities,” said Fleming. “Our government is committed to improving the learning environment at B.C. schools – safe, fun and accessible playgrounds are very much part of delivering on this commitment. And to make this happen, parents should not have to become dedicated fundraisers in their spare time.”

This year, the Playground Equipment Program (PEP) will invest $5 million in 50 new playgrounds in 34 school districts around B.C., including 30 universally accessible playgrounds.

The playgrounds will be built over the next six months and are expected to be ready for kids to play on in fall 2019.

Premier John Horgan announced $5 million to officially launch the PEP program in May 2018 – 26 schools received standard playgrounds and 25 received universally accessible playgrounds. All have been completed and are now being enjoyed by kids throughout B.C.

School districts apply for the funding by sending a list of priorities in their capital plan submissions in June each year. Playgrounds are being funded based on greatest need. Priority is given to schools where there is no playground, then to schools where the existing playground is aging. Districts that did not receive funding this year may receive funding next year, if they apply for it.

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