Funding of $110 million has been announced for School Districts across the province to carry out maintenance and repairs.
The annual facilities grants (AFG) in 2011-12 are intended to allow schools districts to conduct maintenance and refurbishments to extend the life of school buildings.
School District 28 has been allocated $535,983 (capital portion) and $306,276 for the operating portion for a total of $842,259.
The funds are allocated from April 1, 2011 to March 31, 2012.
By comparison, the period of April 1, 2010 to March 31, 2011 Quesnel’s district received $413,473, or approximately 50 per cent.
With the new allocation, districts must provide the ministry with 2011/12 AFG projects and spending plans prior to any operating or capital funding being allocated.
Each school district’s plan will include a list of AFG projects and expenditures it wishes to undertake, as well as, a list of the funding to go with those projects.
AFG funds are generally intended to cover school upkeep costs, but can also be used for projects that help enhance school facilities, improve staff and student safety, increase energy efficiency and lower operating costs.
Expected uses of AFG funds include:
• Heating, cooling and other mechanical upgrades.
• Boiler replacements and energy-efficiency upgrades.
• Roofing and flooring projects.
• Site improvement and playfield upgrades.
• Painting, refinishing and other routine maintenance.
“I am happy to announce we are restoring the annual facilities grants so school districts can plan for summer maintenance and repair work,” education minister George Abbott said.
“Ensuring clean, safe and appropriate places of learning for students is an important part of our government’s Families First agenda.”