The Quebec government is ramping up its plan to build the “next generation” of elementary and high schools and these schools are slated to pop up around the province, sooner than initially promised.
Education Minister Jean-François Roberge announced the decision late in the summer, saying speeding up infrastructure work this year will help boost the province’s economy, which has been impacted by the novel coronavirus pandemic.
The new schools will be built using Quebec materials, specifically natural wood and aluminum throughout its interiors, and have a signature design that will feature the colours of Quebec’s flag.
“The goal is to take care of kids and to have schools that are safe, modern, and inspiring spaces,” he said. “And to start quickly.”
The money will also go towards the expansion of 31 schools across the province. According to the French news release, more than 1,000 classes in preschools and elementary schools are expected to be added as well as 21,500 classes to high schools.
The government has allotted $3.7 billion for the plan as part of its infrastructure investments and in order to fast-track the work, Quebec has set aside $1.8 billion for the upcoming academic year for the construction of 42 school facilities.
At a news conference in Montreal on Thursday, the Education Minister Chantal Rouleau said they will soon build eight new schools across the province.
“We want students to be motivated to go to school and we want them to feel safe and enjoy going every day,” she said in French.
Meanwhile, Roberge also said the province has authorized renovations of 15 schools in total (at a cost of $300 million) whose buildings are in such poor condition that it would be faster, cheaper, and easier to demolish them than rebuild them.
Specific date details have yet to be announced.
