Funding for a new 555-seat elementary school in the growing Willoughby area of Langley has been approved by the B.C. government.

The school will include a neighbourhood learning centre that will offer services such as child care to benefit families in the broader community.

“I understand how important it is for parents to know that their kids are safe, comfortable and happy at a school close to home,” said Premier David Eby. “That’s why we’re building and upgrading schools in Langley and throughout the province. The new elementary school in Langley’s rapidly growing Willoughby area will soon bring students, families and staff together to learn, grow, make friends and build community for generations to come.”

The province is providing the Langley School District with as much as $51.8 million to build the new school.

“We know B.C. is rapidly growing and our government is committed to supporting families and the next generation of learners in Langley,” said Minister of Education and Child Care Rachna Singh. “We are working with the Langley School District to expand schools and provide students with engaging, modern learning environments that are close to home.”

To provide students with an inclusive school, the design will include accessible washrooms that can be used by all students regardless of gender. In keeping with the province’s CleanBC emissions-reduction goals, mass timber will be incorporated into portions of the school. These innovative low-carbon building materials will help to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions throughout the building’s lifetime.

The project is in design with construction scheduled to start in spring 2024. The school is expected to be ready for students in fall 2025.