Take this survey to have your say in the future of Vancouver's schools

The Vancouver School Board (VSB) wants to know what you think about its plan for the future of local schools.

The Long Range Facilities Plan‘ (LRFP), will be used to seismically upgrade and create new schools to 2030. The plan takes into account economic, community, and environmental benefits for students, families, and all citizens of Vancouver.

Given this, the VSB is encouraging locals to take this survey to ensure the public’s insight informs the criteria that’s being used to direct the LRFP.

With more than 100 schools across the City of Vancouver, the VSB has many variables to consider when it comes to getting safe schools where they’re needed as quickly as possible. Right now it’s in the process of approving the LRFP to identify goals for the future of its properties.

Image: Vancouver School Board

In order to make this happen, the VSB needs to determine how to accommodate students during seismic upgrading, which could include school closures, consolidating schools, and building new schools that match enrolment needs.

The B.C. government funds the seismic upgrading program which it has committed to completing by 2030. The program is meant to ensure all students and staff can safely exit a school during an earthquake or other natural disaster. The VBE plans to submit an updated LRFP to the ministry in June.

The information gathered in this process will help the VSB create safe schools as quickly as possible. This includes the construction of new schools in areas of projected growth.

Image: Vancouver School Board

The VSB is asking Vancouverites to provide input regarding the plan by taking this survey and attending its upcoming engagement events. Read below to find out how you can take part.

For more information, check out the VSB’s Long Range Facilities Plan online or follow check out @VSBEngagement on Twitter.

The VSB’s Long Range Facilities Plan consultations

When: Workshop April 24, 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m., Open House 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: River District Centre, 8683 Kerr Street

When: Workshop April 30, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Open House 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: SFU World Art Centre, 149 West Hastings