Photo: WFN

Westbank First Nation will spend $1.459 million to expand and renovate the Sensisyusten House of Learning.

The school is an independent elementary school in WFN's community core.

Band members voted this week to approve the expenditure.

The project will include four new classrooms, a learning assistance room, expanded administration and storage areas, replaced and upgraded fire protection sprinkler system, mechanical system, lighting, roofing, insulation, and building exterior, outdoor classroom spaces, additional washrooms, and an enhanced entry and reception area.

“Sensisyusten students are so happy about the outcome,” says Chief Roxanne Lindley. “I love seeing the spirit of our future leaders.”

Total cost of the project is $8.866 million, with a bulk of the funds coming from an Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada funding grant.

Construction is set to begin later this year, with completion expected in the winter of 2019.

Upgrades to the school will tie in with other recent investments in WFN’s community core, including the construction of a $5.5 million youth centre, which opened in 2017, and the upcoming 2018 construction of a $700,000 public skateboard park and sports court.