Ontario opens 35 new, expanded schools ahead of September return

Ontario is opening 35 new and expanded schools this September, delivering on its $30 billion plan to build more schools and child care where families need them most.

This fall in communities across the province, the Ontario government is delivering on its plan to protect Ontario by opening 18,300 new student spaces and 1,130 licensed child-care spaces.

A $1 billion investment will fund 35 new and expanded schools, offering students in growing communities the modern spaces they need to prepare for in-demand careers.

The government’s $30 billion investment is part of its 10-year plan to build, expand and renew schools across Ontario.

“As students head back to school, our focus is on giving every student the opportunity to succeed,” says Paul Calandra, Minister of Education.

“That means giving teachers the tools and resources they need, investing in modern schools and making sure every dollar we invest in education is driving stronger student achievement.”

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On Thursday, Calandra was in Bradford to visit the newly constructed St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Elementary School, which will welcome over 500 students and provide 49 licensed child-care spaces.

The $27.9 million investment will support growing enrollment in Simcoe County.

This fall, students will attend the new Our Lady of Peace Catholic Elementary School in Tottenham. The $28.2 million facility accommodates over 500 students and includes 49 licensed child-care spaces.

Holy Trinity Catholic High School in Bradford West Gwillimbury is opening a $10.9 million addition to provide 276 more student spaces at the school.

Elsewhere in Simcoe County, the English-language school board recently received funding for five new projects expected to open in the coming years.

Blanche E. Williams in Brantford and Cobblestone Public Elementary School in Paris, Ont. are also included in the list of new and expanded schools.

Students and teachers will return to updated curriculum, new classroom resources, clearer attendance and assessment expectations, stronger supports as well as access to funding for elementary homeroom teachers to purchase classroom supplies.

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