The governor has released more than $12 million for nine construction projects at schools, including $7.8 million for a new multipurpose science facility at Stevenson Middle School.

The Department of Education is moving forward on the planning and design phase for the facility, aimed at creating a "science-focused learning laboratory." Officials expect to put the project out to bid next year.

The Legislature appropriated funds for the facility in 2009, but the money had not been released.

Stevenson Principal Rodney Luke said the facility will strengthen the school’s efforts to emphasize the sciences.

"It’s going to continue the momentum," he said, adding the facility will be a "gathering spot where our students are able to collaborate with each other."

The campus and the Queen’s Medical Center got a $750,000 grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Foundation in 2007 to promote science learning as part of the Science Signature School Initiative.

Stevenson integrates science across the curriculum, and aims to encourage students to pursue science, technology, engineering and math careers.

On Wednesday, the governor also released:

» $2.5 million for covered play courts at Mililani Middle;

» $600,000 for building renovations and structural improvements at Waihee Elementary;

» $575,000 for roof work at Fern Elementary;

» $500,000 for an expansion of Noelani Elementary’s library and the addition of a technology and media center;

» $312,000 for resurfacing of the parking lot at Mililani High;

» $175,000 for accessibility improvements at Kaelepulu Elementary;

» $132,000 for work on a dual basketball and volleyball court at Moanalua Elementary;

» $36,000 for improvements to the cafeteria at Mililani Uka Elementary.

Earlier last month, the governor released more than $15 million for 17 capital improvement projects at public schools.