Cash for playgrounds

Photo: BC Gov't

Several Thompson-Okanagan schools are among 50 that will receive new playgrounds as part of $5 million in funding from the provincial government.

The playgrounds will be built over the next six months and are expected to be ready for kids to play on in fall 2019.

The playgrounds are funded based on greatest need. Priority is given to schools where there is no playground, then to schools where the existing playground is aging.

"As a parent, I understand first-hand how tough it can be for schools and parents to find the time and volunteers to fundraise for playground equipment and activities," said Minister of Education Rob Fleming. "... parents should not have to become dedicated fundraisers in their spare time."

In the Central Okanagan, Kelowna's Rutland Elementary and West Kelowna's Shannon Lake Elementary will each receive $105,000 for accessible playgrounds.

In the North Okanagan-Shuswap School District, Len Wood Middle School in Armstrong will receive $90,000 for a new playground.

Kamloops/Thompson School District will see Aberdeen Elementary and Oak Hills Primary/Ecole Collines d'Or Primaire both receive $90,000.