It’s being touted as a historic investment in education.
The provincial government says it will invest $1.3 billion towards building and expanding schools in Ontario.
It’s welcome news for the London District Catholic School board, as they are set to receive more than $140 million for high schools in London and St. Thomas and $31 million for an elementary school in southwest London.
“This means less portables, a lot less portables,” said Debbie Jordan, Executive Superintendent of Business and Corporate Services. “Currently we have… around 130, and we’re projecting to add another 50 for the fall, so this is great news. Our kids can go back to the schools, and so we’re really excited about that,” she continued.
Earlier this month, LDCSB announced they will begin capping enrollment at some schools after ‘considerable growth’ in student population.
“Right now at about 27,500 students, we’re projecting to be growing a little over 5 per cent the next three years at least. So that means, another 1,500 students roughly every year, so that’s considerable,” explained Jordan.
The Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) will receive $93.4 million in funding to build three new elementary schools. Two in London and one in Thamesford.
“This investment means families can access schools closer to home, in the communities where they live,” said Bill Tucker, Interim Director of Education for TVDSB. “This is about more than new buildings; it’s about ensuring our students and families feel supported and connected as they grow and thrive in these neighborhoods.”
The Ministry of Education says the newly announced schools will create 25,000 new student spaces and 1,600 child care spaces in Ontario.
Schools to be built
$100,540,000 for a new North London Secondary School (1,999 students and 88-space childcare centre)
$31,000,000 for a new Southwest London Elementary School (655 students and 88-space childcare centre)
$41,600,000 for a new St. Thomas Secondary School (826 students)
Accommodating growth
To help accommodate the growth, St. Gabriel elementary school opened in January, elementary schools in London and the Komoka-Kilworth area are in the planning stages, and construction on the new Regina Mundi College secondary school is well underway.
In the meantime, the LDCSB said it has added 130 new portables over the past three school years, including more than 50 for the 2024-25 school year.
