North Vancouver students are heading back to class in the city’s first newly built elementary school in 35 years.

The Province of B.C. announced the opening of Cloverley Elementary School, a new facility in North Vancouver that provides space for 585 students along with 92 childcare spots for children under five.

The $61-million project was designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating mass-timber construction and energy-efficient features aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimizing the building’s environmental footprint.

“Of the hundreds of major capital projects being delivered by my ministry across the province, the new Cloverley Elementary School project in my home community has a very special place in my heart,” said Bowinn Ma, B.C.’s Minister of Infrastructure.

“I want to thank the parents, our school district and local community members who never stopped making the case for this new school. Built with mass timber and an energy-efficient design, this is an investment that will serve families in our community for generations to come.”

The school comes as North Vancouver continues to grow, increasing demand for student spaces and childcare services.

“North Vancouver is growing and our families need schools that grow with them,” said Antje Wilson, chair of the North Vancouver Board of Education.

“Cloverley Elementary responds to that need with 585 student seats, child care spaces and a modern learning environment designed for the future. On behalf of the board of education, I want to thank the Province for its investment and the many partners who helped bring this school to life.”

Provincial officials say the new school will help meet the needs of families in the community while providing a modern learning environment for future generations.