The Vancouver School Board is set to convene a crucial meeting this Monday evening, welcoming delegations to share their viewpoints on the potential permanent closure of the city’s oldest educational facility.
Situated on Kingsway near Joyce Street, the board has recommended shutting down Sir Guy Carleton Elementary, citing safety concerns due to its unsuitability for use following severe fire damage in 2016. Enrollments ceased that same year, with no students attending for close to a decade.
In addition to proposing the closure, the board also approved modifications to the school’s catchment area in 2023, facilitating the redistribution of students to other schools.
Despite efforts to restore the 129-year-old building in the past, funding from the provincial government was not forthcoming, leaving estimated restoration and seismic upgrade costs at around $36 million in 2019. Current projections suggest these costs could escalate significantly based on similar ongoing projects.
Revised enrollment forecasts earlier this year indicate that neighboring schools have sufficient capacity to accommodate students both presently and in the future. Nonetheless, a segment of the community is advocating for the preservation of Sir Guy Carleton Elementary.
Leading the charge is Melanie Cheng, chair of the Vancouver District Parent Advisory Council (DPAC), who has spearheaded the ‘Save Carleton’ campaign opposing the closure. Cheng, a lifelong resident of the area, expresses concerns about the board’s closure plans, calling for more transparency and sensible growth strategies for the community.
The advocacy group is pushing for enhanced public amenities, a modern library, access to seismically upgraded schools, and childcare services within the locality.
Responding to inquiries, the VSB clarified that no final decision has been reached regarding the school’s fate. Before any considerations regarding the potential sale or leasement of the site can be entertained, a determination on the proposed closure must be made by the board.
Rumors about the possible redevelopment of the site for high-rise structures or housing have circulated, with the Francophone Education Authority expressing interest in establishing a school at the location. However, the board emphasizes that any alternative uses for the site will only be explored following a closure resolution.
A significant turnout is expected at the public delegation meeting on Monday night at the Vancouver School Board Education Centre, with community members set to present thousands of petition signatures in support of preserving the school. Cheng affirms that community feedback will be pivotal in influencing the board’s decision, which is slated for a public meeting in December.