Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government has announced $1.3 billion for the construction of 30 new schools and expansion of 15 existing ones across the province. This initiative will create more than 25,000 new student spaces and over 1,600 new licensed childcare spaces.
“This is the second consecutive year that our government has made historic investments in new school construction and school expansion, as part of the government’s Build Ontario plan,” said Jill Dunlop, Minister of Education. “Under our plan, schools are being built faster and more efficiently than ever before, so more students have access to a place to learn and prepare for the jobs of tomorrow.”
Funding will help meet growing demands in areas of Ontario experiencing rapid demographic changes and housing development. The Ministry of Education is collaborating with school boards to ensure these infrastructure investments align with local needs and deliver good value to taxpayers.
The 45 new projects were selected through the 2024-25 Capital Priorities program, which reviewed submissions from school boards across the province. The selected projects aim to alleviate space shortages in communities with limited alternatives, as well as increase access to French-language education.
By prioritizing shovel-ready projects, the government aims to meet the increasing need for student spaces quickly while managing rising construction costs. Additionally, efforts are underway to reduce red tape, allowing for faster approvals and smoother project delivery.
For the 2024-25 school year, approximately $1.4 billion in renewal funding has been allocated to school boards to renew and improve existing schools.
In 2023, school boards were encouraged to standardize new school designs, work together on joint-use school projects, and submit shovel-ready proposals to help expedite construction.
“The additional investment of $1.3 billion from the government for 30 new schools and 15 new school additions is fantastic news for students, staff, and families across the province,” said Laura Elliott, executive director, Council of Ontario Directors of Education. “Our directors and staff look forward to working collaboratively with the ministry to ensure that projects are ready for students as quickly as possible and within budget.
“These new learning spaces will enhance student learning and academic achievement while preparing them for the jobs of the future.”
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