Surrey and White Rock schools unveil 125 summer upgrades, from playgrounds and roofing to accessibility and energy improvements.
Schools Reopen with Big Changes
When students returned to Surrey and White Rock classrooms this September, they walked into schools that looked and felt noticeably refreshed. Over the summer, facilities crews wrapped up an impressive 125 upgrade projects—everything from playground revamps to heating and cooling improvements.
The district shared the news on its website, calling the scale of work “astounding.” These projects were funded through the district’s operating budget, with support from the Ministry of Education and Child Care.
Playgrounds, Classrooms, and New Beginnings
One of the biggest transformations was the conversion of City Central Learning Centre into Theresa Clarke Elementary, now a full K-7 school complete with a brand-new playground. Other highlights included updated foods rooms at Sullivan Heights Secondary, modernized washrooms at Jessie Lee Elementary and Cloverdale Traditional, plus a safer playground border at Bonaccord Elementary.
Accessibility Front and Centre
Making schools more inclusive was also a priority. Prince Charles and Cedar Hills elementaries both received accessibility upgrades, while James Ardiel Elementary saw a new wheelchair ramp installed. The district emphasized its commitment to removing barriers for students, families, and staff with disabilities, pointing to a community survey still open for feedback.
Comfort, Safety, and Efficiency
Behind the scenes, heating, cooling, and plumbing projects were widespread. Schools such as Kwantlen Park Secondary and Riverdale Elementary received HVAC upgrades. Boiler systems were improved at East Kensington, Ocean Cliff, and several others, while Johnston Heights Secondary gained a modern chiller plant. Water systems at Maple Green, École Martha Currie, Prince Charles, and Royal Heights also received key upgrades.
Drainage work was tackled at Erma Stephenson and Peace Arch elementaries, ensuring schoolyards are ready for rainy seasons.
Greener Playgrounds and Stronger Roofs
Douglas Elementary’s outdoor play area got a greener, more sustainable makeover, while roofing crews worked at Rosemary Heights, Cedar Hills, Semiahmoo, and North Surrey schools. Flooring projects added a fresh look at Chantrell Creek, Harold Bishop, and Queen Elizabeth schools.
Final Touches Across the District
Other improvements included:
- A new generator at Semiahmoo Secondary
- Upgraded lighting at Woodland Park Elementary
- Exterior paint refreshes at nine sites
- Fresh wall panels in Colebrook Elementary’s gym
Planning Ahead Made It Possible
With just two months to complete such a massive list, the district credited careful planning and early equipment orders for helping everything come together on time.
As a result, thousands of Surrey and White Rock students are now learning in safer, brighter, and more welcoming spaces.
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