The Ontario government has announced a significant $1.3 billion investment to construct 30 new schools and expand 15 existing schools across the province. This initiative aims to address the growing student population while enhancing access to modern learning environments and childcare facilities.
The new infrastructure will add over 25,000 student spaces and more than 1,600 licensed childcare spaces, ensuring that Ontario’s educational institutions can accommodate increasing enrollment.
Addressing Growth and Infrastructure Needs
The Ministry of Education has collaborated with school boards to determine priority projects based on demographic shifts, housing developments, and community needs. The 2024-25 Capital Priorities Program has selected 45 projects that will help alleviate overcrowding and provide more accessible learning spaces, particularly for French-language education and areas with limited alternatives.
Ontario Newsroom reports that by focusing on shovel-ready projects, the government aims to expedite construction and mitigate rising costs. The ministry is streamlining approval processes and reducing bureaucratic hurdles to ensure timely completion.
Key School Projects Across Ontario
The following schools and expansions represent a broad effort to modernize Ontario’s education sector:
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New Port Elgin Elementary School (Bluewater District School Board) – A 409-student facility to serve the Town of Saugeen Shores. ($17.9M)
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Paris Catholic Elementary School & Child Care Centre (Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board) – A new 513-student school with 49 childcare spaces in Paris. ($24.5M)
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École secondaire publique Ottawa Centre (Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario) – A 731-student secondary school with childcare services in Ottawa. ($40.8M)
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West Whitby Secondary School (Durham District School Board) – A new 1,384-student secondary school in Whitby. ($69.9M)
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North London Catholic Secondary School (London District Catholic School Board) – A 1,999-student school with 88 childcare spaces. ($100.5M)
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Wasaga Beach Secondary School (Simcoe County District School Board) – A 1,145-student secondary school. ($59.3M)
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Foster Northwest K-12 School (Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board) – A 1,445-student facility in Newcastle. ($75.9M)
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Mount Pleasant Secondary School (Peel District School Board) – A 1,660-student high school in Northwest Brampton. ($84.2M)
These projects will be instrumental in easing waitlists, improving student-to-teacher ratios, and reducing pressure on local hospitals by ensuring appropriate educational placements.
Enhanced Facilities and Student-Centric Design
The new schools will be designed with modern amenities such as:
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Energy-efficient infrastructure
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Multi-purpose learning spaces
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Accessibility features
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Outdoor recreational areas
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Childcare facilities integrated within elementary schools
Streamlining Construction and Expanding Opportunities
Ontario’s efforts to reduce red tape and accelerate project timelines align with broader goals of creating a seamless transition from planning to execution. This investment also reflects the province’s commitment to meeting the needs of a growing population while fostering sustainable urban development.
As Ontario continues to grow, these educational investments will provide lasting benefits for students, teachers, and communities. With an emphasis on accessibility, sustainability, and efficiency, the province is ensuring that future generations have the necessary resources to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.
The new schools are expected to be completed over the next few years, helping to shape a stronger and more resilient education system in Ontario.
