UPPER CANADA DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD

February 9, 2021 (Winchester, ON) – The Upper Canada District School Board is proud to share that it has received Ministry of Education approval to proceed with the Winchester Public School child care project.

The project, which was first announced in November 2015, will address a long-time community need for child care services, and will include a three-room child care centre addition to the existing school building.

“We’re thrilled to move forward with this project as it will help address an ongoing community need for child care services,” says John McAllister, Chair of the Upper Canada District School Board. “We’re grateful for the Ministry of Education’s support as well as the collaborative partnership we have with the Township of North Dundas.”

The school board has entered into a lease agreement with the Township of North Dundas to lease portions of Louise Street, Clarence Street and York Street. The school board will work with the municipality to convert York Street and part of Louise Street into one-way thoroughfares, while a bus loading and unloading zone will be added to Clarence Street for improved safety.

In addition to the child care project, Winchester Public School’s existing infrastructure will also undergo capital improvements including a gym floor replacement, updated roofing, video security installation as well as new doors, new boilers and new rooftop mechanical units, painting, exterior site signage and classroom sinks. Improved parking and landscaping are also part of the project scope.

This project represents a $5.4 million investment in the school and is part of the province’s capital investment program to support students with better learning spaces.

“From modernizing our curriculum to revitalizing our classrooms and their facilities, we are investing in our students and giving them every tool to achieve their full potential,” says Education Minister Stephen Lecce. “Progress towards the construction of the child care addition to Winchester Public School further demonstrates our government’s commitment to making child care accessible and affordable for working families.”

“The funding for this child care addition to Winchester Public School is great news for our community,” adds MPP Jim McDonell, MPP for Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry. “This investment will provide choice and flexibility for families and new opportunities for the children of Winchester.” 

This child care addition and the capital upgrades complement the work that was done in 2014-2015 to prepare the school for full day kindergarten with the addition of kindergarten classrooms, a new office and front entrance and elevator.

The school board expects to tender the project this spring.

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