Photo: Contributed

BX Elementary School in Vernon will soon be getting a major makeover. 

A 240-seat expansion to the school was announced Friday. Rob Fleming, Minister of Education, said the B.C. government will be providing $11.1 million to build an addition on the school which is expected to be ready for students in September 2021.

"With the growth that Vernon has seen, it is vitally important to make sure students can go to school in positive, engaging environments," Fleming said. "These new seats will ensure we are meeting the needs of students at BX Elementary and providing them with the best opportunities to succeed."

Robert Lee, chair of School District 22, was thrilled with the announcement. 

"We appreciate the support from the ministry in funding this project. The new expansion at BX Elementary will provides our students and staff with a great place to learn, grow and work," Lee said. 

This project will be the first school expansion to be completed in the Vernon School District since 2003-04.

When the new classrooms are complete, the school will operate at 85 per cent capacity as opposed to its current operation status, 147 per cent capacity.

Construction will get underway in spring 2020. Students will remain in school while work is happening.