Senator Reid and T.E. Scott Elementary schools receive funding for new playgrounds

The B.C. government is providing funding for new playgrounds at Surrey's Senator Reid Elementary and T.E. Scott Elementary, as part of its Playground Equipment Program (PEP).

Senator Reid and T.E. Scott are just two of 60 schools across the province to receive $165,000 each  towards accessible, inclusive playgrounds to be built over the next year. The new play areas will better support accessibility for students by including components such as ground cover, ramps and transfer platforms that connect to play structures.

"Physical exercise outside of the classroom is just as important for our students as exercising their minds in the classroom," said Laurie Larsen, chair of the Surrey Board of Education. "Play is a pillar of child development and these new playgrounds will provide kids the opportunity to learn teamwork, improve their life and motor skills,  nurture friendships - and just have fun!"

The provincial funding also relieves school PACs (Parent Advisory Councils) of some of the responsibility for fundraising for playground equipment. Playgrounds are funded based on need and priority is given to schools without playgrounds, followed by schools with aging playgrounds.

For more information on the PEP, click here. For information on COVID-19 safety at playgrounds, visit the BC Centre for Disease Control's website.