We are completely out of space Vancouver parents push back against elementary school land deal

Parents rallied at Vancouver City Hall, urging local officials to ensure that school space meets the demands of new housing developments. The protest organized by Build Schools Now coincides with the Vancouver School Board's plans to lease a portion of Sir Sandford Fleming Elementary’s land for a rental housing project. Heman Mehta, the PAC chair, raised concerns about overcrowding, noting that the school currently accommodates 422 students despite being built for 398. He warned that losing land could eliminate future space for portables and green areas, impacting children's play. Parents have collected over 900 signatures on a petition against the proposed rezoning.

The VSB acknowledged the community's concerns but stated it approved the lease after a rigorous land disposition process. The rezoning application is now under consideration by the city. Mehta plans to return to City Hall for a public hearing to voice parents' concerns directly to the council.