Frequently Asked Questions about Construction at Vernon Secondary School
When is the completion of the new school? – The new school completion is scheduled for fall of 2012 and the users will move in. The exterior fields and landscaping will continue into summer of 2013.
What will happen with the old school? – The old school will be demolished once the students are moved into the new school. Demolition will include environmental factors such as waste management, recycling and sediment control. Brick and concrete will be crushed and reused for fill material on the project. A portion of equipment and other items within the existing school will be salvaged and reused in the new school and other sites.
What types of classes are in the new school? Project Description – 3 storey school approx floor space of 10,360 square meters. It includes 19 classrooms, 6 science rooms, 3 art rooms, a teaching kitchen, textiles room, a drama theatre, music room, library, computer rooms, 3 shops, gymnasium, a multipurpose space and more.
What impact will the construction have on the existing school and nearby residents? There will be typical construction issues which include dust, noise, traffic control and site security that the contractor will be controlling and limiting the impact to the residents.
Are there any energy efficiencies in the new school? The new school will have a ground source geothermal system and with the building envelope design the building will be very energy efficient. A lighting control system will reduce the annual electricity consumption. These systems will have a large energy and operating cost savings yearly. The design has been completed to a LEED standard (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).
Will there still be a sports field with the new school? The grounds will have a new full size football/soccer field and basketball courts. Options are being reviewed for a possible second play field, tennis and volleyball courts, and a baseball diamond.
What will the new gymnasium look like? The gym will be full size with options for the main court usage with the bleachers or it can also be split into two sides for the users including badminton, volleyball and basketball. The flooring will be a cushioned wood sports floor. A sound system will also be included in the gym.
What is there for student common areas? Inside there will be a central multipurpose area with some tiered sitting areas and student tables. On levels 2 and 3, a bench will be out front of most classrooms and a benched lounge area located at the end of the corridors. Outside there will be tiered concrete steps and sitting areas as well as some picnic tables.
Will there be a new address for the new school? At this time, a new address has not been given however we should all expect the address to change.
Will there be regular updates on the status of the construction of the new school? The school district website will have monthly updates posted.
What will the new parking area look like at the new school? Student and visitor parking areas will be located off of 15th Street which is separate from the teachers parking which is behind the building. A bus loop will be built off of 21st Ave to the south of the building. Both areas will lead students to the main common area for school entry.
Is there a cafeteria? There will be a teaching kitchen, very similar to the existing kitchen at VSS, that will serve students. A school store will also be available.
