A few Foothills and area school divisions have received provincial funding for future projects.

This morning (March 1), Education minister Adriana LaGrange announced some of the school projects being funded as part of the 2023-2024 budget.

In total, 58 projects are receiving funding, including 13 full construction projects, as well as many design, planning and pre-planning projects.

Locally, the biggest project is the replacement for École Good Shepherd School, which is getting full construction funding.

Christ the Redeemer Catholic Schools had previously requested funding for the project, given the need for remediation to the school's roof.

Additionally, the Foothills School Division got planning funding for a new high school in Okotoks.

According to the province, planning funding includes things like site analysis and scope development.

School divisions in Nanton and Taber also received design funding.

Design funding includes things like "preparation of construction tender documents such as drawings and specifications."

LaGrange explained the difference in the levels of funding provided.

"This approach will provide school authorities with more provincial support earlier in the planning process, so school projects can progress more quickly and with fewer roadblocks."

She says there will be close to 25,000 new and additional student spaces across the province.