Rendition of the Valleyview Expansion Project for Valleyview Secondary School in Kamloops.

Image Credit: SUBMITTED/ Kamloops-Thompson Board of Education

There was a great big reason to celebrate yesterday for members of the Kamloops-Thompson Board of Education.

The grand opening of the long-awaited Valleyview Secondary Expansion project took place on Nov. 1.

“This $34.8 million addition has resulted in 20 new classroom spaces and expanded common areas that enable staff and students to be more comfortable and connected,” said the Board Chair Heather Grieve in a media release by school district 73.

It has been decades since the last major capital project at the school and during that time the learning design for schools has changed, but the expansion is fixing that.

The east wing at the school now has expansive windows, common areas for students to gather casually between classes, natural wood accents and inclusive washrooms, according to the release.
 
“There are now 525 more seats which are much needed now that our school has over 1000 students,” said the principal Mr. Cory Carmichael in the release.

“The students enjoy the flexible seating throughout the school, the wide hallways and stairwells, and outdoor gathering spaces.”

READ MORE: 'Tip of the iceberg:' Report finds 252 school personnel accused of sexual offences

Many community representatives showed up for the celebration on Nov. 1.

“I believe that the expansion of Valleyview Secondary will uplift students and their well-being in the new learning space provided,” said student Danna Campbell.

“Students at Valleyview Secondary are able to better their education in a new space where everybody feels welcome,” said student Rachel Farrow. “We have seen improvements in the overall learning environment, with benefits to students and teachers alike.”

“I am deeply thankful for the gracious effort and work of so many people to make this dream a reality,” said student Levi Purves. “Valleyview Secondary has become a place for resident students and teachers to be proud of, and I am grateful for a new chapter in our school’s history.”

Superintendent of school district 73, Dr. Rhonda Nixon, added that parents and students are looking forward to a new gymnasium, multipurpose spaces and innovative classrooms like film studios and a drafting room.

READ MORE: Medical guidance sought after contamination closes school

To contact a reporter for this story, email Shannon Ainslie or call 250-819-6089 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.

We welcome your comments and opinions on our stories but play nice. We won't censor or delete comments unless they contain off-topic statements or links, unnecessary vulgarity, false facts, spam or obviously fake profiles. If you have any concerns about what you see in comments, email the editor in the link above. 

News from © iNFOnews, 2022