One of Swift Current's oldest schools will be receiving significant upgrades shortly.

 O. M. Irwin, built in 1963, is getting a new ventilation system worth nearly half a million. 

"That system has been in play for quite some time and it's just getting to the end of its life so we're upgrading that system just to keep our buildings running effectively and efficiently," said Chinook School Division's chief finance officer, Sharie Sloman.

The upgrades will cost a hefty $486,000 plus taxes. Saskatoon company, Suer and Pollon, will be responsible for the project's undertaking.  

The company is a privately owned partnership and has worked on over 600 projects across Sask., Man., and Alta. 

"That's going to be covered each year with our funding from the ministry." Sloman shared. "We get PMR funding, which is preventative maintenance and renewal funding." 

Installations are set to begin this summer over the break. The school division hopes to have the upgrades done by the start of the new school year.