Sooke School District Proposes Prefab Classrooms to Alleviate Overcrowding

The Sooke School District has unveiled plans to address overcrowding in West Shore high schools by introducing temporary prefabricated classrooms. This initiative aims to provide immediate relief until a new high school can be constructed, a process expected to take several years.

The decision comes in response to a significant increase in student enrollment, which has strained existing facilities. Current projections indicate that the district will see an additional 800 students over the next few years, exacerbating the already critical situation in local high schools.

According to district officials, the proposed prefabricated classrooms are a cost-effective and timely solution. The Sooke School District has set a budget of $1.5 million for this initiative, which includes the installation of around 10 temporary classrooms. These units will be equipped to accommodate students and alleviate congestion in existing facilities.

Community Response and Future Plans

Local parents and educators have expressed a mix of relief and concern regarding the temporary solution. While many appreciate the immediate action taken to address overcrowding, there are worries about the long-term implications of using prefabricated structures.

“We are grateful for any steps that can ease the pressure on our schools, but we also want to ensure that our children receive a quality education in a proper environment,” said Sarah Thompson, a parent of two high school students in the district.

The Sooke School District plans to begin the installation of these classrooms by December 2023, with the goal of having them operational in time for the start of the next academic year. School board officials have emphasized that this measure is purely temporary, as they continue to pursue funding and plans for a new high school facility in the area.

Long-Term Solutions on the Horizon

The district’s long-term strategy includes seeking government support to fund the construction of a new high school, which could potentially serve up to 1,200 students. This new facility is projected to be completed by 2026, provided that funding is secured and plans are approved.

In the meantime, district representatives are committed to exploring additional short-term solutions to manage the growing student population. These may include adjusting school boundaries and increasing resources for existing schools to better accommodate students.

As the Sooke School District navigates this challenging situation, officials remain optimistic that the introduction of prefabricated classrooms will serve as a bridge to a more permanent solution, ensuring that students can continue to learn in a safe and supportive environment.