Not enough staff washrooms and limited gym and library times are some of many signs of overcrowding in Richmond elementary schools this year, according to the Richmond teachers' union.
The Richmond School District experienced higher enrolment than expected this fall, which has caused "wider stress" on elementary school facilities within the district, according to Liz Baverstock, president of the Richmond Teachers' Association (RTA).
Recently, teachers have been asking why certain schools have only one gym for 625 students or only five washrooms for more than 75 staff members.
Other concerns include a lack of space for learning resource teachers, staff and meetings as well as the lack of daytime custodians.
These concerns are part of a report compiled by the RTA, which will be presented to the board of education this week.
"These are not questions for the RTA to answer, as we don't speak for the Board of Education," said Baverstock in her brief to the board.
"However, RTA members working in these elementary schools want to know their concerns are being seen and heard by trustees."
Baverstock explained there are currently at least five elementary schools in Richmond whose student population is larger than Cambie secondary.
"None of these elementary schools were built for the population that now exists in their buildings, which is creating significant challenges..."
The school district recently received provincial funding for modular classrooms at Brighouse and Cook elementary schools to address increased enrolment.
"It is our understanding these modular classrooms will come complete with plumbing, which will help alleviate the challenges of limited bathroom space for both students and staff," said Baverstock.
"We recognize this as a medium-term solution, but one that will endure for the lifetime of these two school communities."
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