The Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board (SMCDSB) is excited to share the official names of the new Catholic elementary schools in Bradford and Tottenham, scheduled to open in September and November of this year. Following a popular vote by the school community, the new Bradford school will be named St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Elementary School, and the new school in Tottenham will be named Our Lady of Peace Catholic Elementary School.

The name selection process involved several steps: establishing a selection committee, gathering name suggestions from the community (including students, staff, and family members), narrowing the choices to three finalists, and holding a community-wide vote to select the final name. Both names were officially approved by the Ministry of Education and Cardinal Frank Leo. 

Rooted in the Catholic faith, both school names reflect values that will help shape their communities for generations to come. Saint Vincent de Paul is remembered for his extraordinary compassion and dedication to service, while Our Lady of Peace honours Mary, the mother of Jesus, as a model of grace and reconciliation. Together, these names serve as a lasting reminder of the faith, service, and caring relationships at the heart of Catholic education.

"A school name carries a story, a purpose, and a promise," said Kimberly Dixon, Chief Executive Officer of the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board. "Both of these school names reflect the values of compassion, service, faith, and hope that are at the heart of Catholic education. We look forward to building vibrant school communities where students can learn, grow, and thrive in an environment rooted in faith and belonging."

Schools are closed for the summer, but registrations continue to be accepted through the Registration Page of the SMCDSB website. School offices will reopen the week of August 24, 2026.