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SD46 advances new childcare program in Madeira Park

New childcare facility coming to Madeira Park: SD46's initiative includes spaces for toddlers and preschoolers
Jordan Copp, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Jordan Copp, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Madeira Park aerial
edb3_16 / iStock / Getty Images Plus

School District 46 has taken an “exciting” step forward with its new childcare program in Madeira Park.

During the district’s Feb. 14 regular meeting, Nicholas Weswick, secretary-treasurer for SD 46 said that on Feb. 13, SD 46 representatives and consultants were at Madeira Park Elementary discussing site locations, design layout as well as a timeline.

“I'm really excited about that project finally moving forward,” Weswick said. “I think there's still lots of work to be done.”

The facility to be built on the grounds of Madeira Park Elementary is to have space for 12 infant/toddlers as well as 24 spots for three-to-five-year-olds. 

Weswick added that the contracted archaeological firm will be moving ahead with a study of the area, and a working permit with shíshálh Nation.

“This visit is the first step toward adherence to the shíshálh Nation Lands and Resources Decision-Making Policy, demonstrating our respect for and compliance with the guidelines that govern the respectful use and development of lands within shíshálh Nation territory,” the report states.

While cost is difficult to estimate during these primordial stages, in a follow-up interview, Weswick said that there is a “pretty healthy budget” allocated to the project from the Childcare BC New Spaces Fund, a Ministry of Education and Child Care initiative. In May 2022, the province announced $2.6 million for the new Madeira Park childcare facility.

Weswick added that SD-46 hopes to create after-school care spaces on-site and in the school itself.

Weswick said the timeline of this project will hinge on approvals, using the archaeological impact assessment as an example, which is required before any breaking ground can begin. 

He said the assessment could take three to eight months to complete. 

“It's going to be a great addition to the community,” Weswick said. “It's going to add to the services that we can offer and it's certainly a much-needed addition for Madeira Park.”

Jordan Copp is the Coast Reporter’s civic and Indigenous affairs reporter. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative.