A new Surrey elementary school opens in Newton, easing overcrowding briefly as enrolment shifts and officials warn more schools are urgently needed.
A Fresh Start in Newton Brings Short-Term Relief
For now, relief has arrived in Surrey’s Newton neighbourhood. This week, École Snokomish Elementary officially opened its doors. As a result, some pressure has lifted from classrooms across B.C.’s largest school district. However, that relief may not last long.
Although the new school adds much-needed space, district leaders say it likely buys only a few years before overcrowding returns.
Enrolment Dip Offers a Breathing Room—for Now
Interestingly, the Surrey school district saw something rare this year: a drop in student enrolment. In fact, it marked the first decline in 25 years. Because of that shift, combined with Snokomish opening mid-winter, several packed schools finally gained space.
School board chair Gary Tymoschuk said the timing helped. Still, he stressed the situation remains fragile. While some existing schools are expanding, no other new schools are under construction right now.
“Our list for new schools is enormous,” Tymoschuk said plainly.
Why Surrey Is Building Up, Not Out
Snokomish stands three storeys tall beside Goldstone Park, a busy green space with play fields and a water park. Unlike older, sprawling one-storey schools, this vertical design reflects a changing reality in Surrey.
In the past, land was plentiful. Now, it’s costly and scarce. Therefore, schools are growing upward.
“Those days are gone,” Tymoschuk explained. “We have to fit more into less space.”
While taller buildings cost more upfront—because elevators and stairwells are required—they also save money elsewhere. For example, a smaller roof footprint lowers some construction costs.
A School Rooted in Indigenous History
The name Snokomish was chosen in partnership with the Semiahmoo First Nation. It honours the Snokomish people who once lived near the Serpentine and Nicomekl rivers.
Principal Laura Grills explained that disease devastated the Snokomish community. Survivors later joined the Semiahmoo and Kwantlen First Nations. Because of this history, Indigenous culture is woven into the school’s design.
Inside, classrooms circle a central courtyard inspired by the Indigenous medicine wheel. Moreover, diamond patterns echo Coast Salish weaving traditions. Even the gym features First Nations-inspired tile work.
Modern Design Meets Student-Centred Learning
Snokomish was built for up to 655 students, although only 420 are enrolled so far. The $44-million school includes 27 classrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, and breakout spaces that promote collaboration.
In addition, students enjoy an open library, a maker space, and flexible learning areas. Altogether, the design aims to support creativity, connection, and community.
Students came from nearby schools, including Goldstone, Woodward, Cambridge, and Sullivan elementary schools. As a result, those campuses finally gained room to breathe.
The Bigger Picture: Demand Still Looms
Even with the new school, the district’s challenges remain. Last year, Surrey requested funding for 27 new schools and expansions at 21 others, totalling $5.7 billion. This year’s request may shrink slightly, yet it remains substantial.
The recent enrolment dip likely links to federal immigration limits. However, district projections show student numbers rising again soon. When that happens, Snokomish will likely fill quickly.
Superintendent Selma Smith confirmed nearby schools already sit at or near capacity.
What Comes Next for Surrey Schools?
Looking ahead, the district plans to think differently. With a new SkyTrain corridor coming through Surrey’s City Centre, officials are exploring schools inside high-rise developments.
The idea sounds bold. Still, it may be necessary.
“We need the right mix of developers and play space,” Tymoschuk said. “One-storey schools are history.”
Talks with the City of Surrey continue. Using city-owned buildings or mixed-use developments could help. For now, though, details remain uncertain.
Bottom Line
École Snokomish Elementary is a welcome addition. It eases crowding, celebrates culture, and reflects modern design. Yet, it also highlights a bigger truth: Surrey needs many more schools—and soon.
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