Classrooms in high rises a possibility in Richmond

RICHMOND (NEWS 1130) – Imagine sending your child down a couple of floors from your condo — to school.

At first thought, it might seem like a strange idea. But Richmond’s school board is taking a look at it.

There’s a shortage of classroom space in the downtown core, and the board of education is looking at many options.

“Of course, conventional property with green space for playgrounds is preferrable. However, as the property values increase and large parcels of land become unavailable, we may have to look at more creative solutions for city centre schools,” says Chair Debbie Tablotney.

She tells us everything is on the table.

“We have been working with a consultant and we have embarked on a long-range facilities plan that actually kicked off in July. We’ve been entered into conversations with our parents and our community to discuss our seismic issues with our schools… and of course, our areas where we do need schools. And we have embarked on this to collect information… We have a good conversation on our website, where the community can join in the conversation and fill out surveys. This is how we’re collecting information to make our decisions.”

Tablotney says there’s already a school running at the bottom of a high rise in Port Coquitlam, and she isn’t aware of any difficulties.

She adds there are schools like this in the United States, as well.

“We’re just looking into this, so I really can’t comment on what the challenges would be. But… it certainly wouldn’t look like a traditional bricks and mortar school, and right now in the school district, we have our virtual schools as well — classes can be taken online. So, schools are going to look different in the future.”

Vancouver’s school board trustee says he’s open open to unconventional options down the road.

Meanwhile, Richmond is set to close five elementary schools in 2017.

If you’re interested in sharing your input, click here to join the conversation online.