BARRIE, ON: The Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board (SMCDSB) has been approved for two new Catholic elementary schools in the south part of the district. The Ministry of Education has confirmed $16.3 million in funding for a new school build in Bradford, which will be located at Rogers Trail and Vipond Way. An additional allotment of $16.3 million will see the construction of a new school on Martin Trail in Tottenham. 

In February, the Board identified both of these schools to the Ministry of Educations as its top two capital priorities for construction. They were identified as key projects because of current accommodation pressures as well significant projected growth in each of the communities. Both schools plan for a capacity of 516 students and include three-room childcare facilities. 

"When there is a lot of growth in an area it can result in some pressures for our schools, but it also presents new and exciting opportunities,” said Joe Zerdin, SMCDSB Board Chair. “Both Bradford and New Tecumseth recently completed Boundary Reviews in order to relieve accommodation pressure, and as a result some students had to change schools. We know that this kind of change isn’t always easy. At the same time, growth in the area is now resulting in the construction of two new schools - I know this will be welcome news for the students, staff and families.” 

With Ministry of Education approval and funding in place, the next step is to go out to tender for architectural design concepts and construction. Once concepts are approved and vendors are secured, the Board will have a better idea of school opening dates. 

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Media Contact: Pauline Stevenson, Manager of Communications and Strategic Initiatives 705.722.3555 ext., 229 [email protected]