Elementary schools in Surrey faced student overcrowding, leading to the use of 45 portables. These portables are now being removed as school expansions are completed. The Surrey School Board is relieved to have more permanent space for students but is struggling to cover the removal costs.
Board members are urging the provincial government to provide funding for the removal. Board chair Gary Tymoschuk emphasized the financial strain, stating, “We simply cannot afford it. Full stop.” Until adequate funds are secured, the portables will remain on school grounds, occupying valuable space that was previously used for playgrounds and parking.
The board estimates it would cost around $100,000 to relocate each portable. However, they stress that this expense should not come from the school district’s already limited operating budget. Tymoschuk highlighted the board’s decision to stop paying for portable removal two years ago due to financial constraints.
Currently, there are still 350 portables in use across Surrey schools, initially necessitated by the district’s high enrollment rates. The removal of these portables is crucial to optimize school space and resources for students and staff.