April 9, 2026 (Cornwall, Ont.) - The Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) is
pleased to share that the Ministry of Education has approved its request for additional
funding and for permission to proceed with tendering the build of the new
Cornwall Collegiate and Vocational School.
The additional $46,166,868 will bring the overall funding
for the new school building to just over $85 million. When costs associated
with land acquisition and the outdoor space are factored in, the total
investment will exceed $97.5 million.
“Our goal is clear: to provide students with the opportunity
to succeed and grow, and ensure teachers have the resources and environment
they need to inspire learning and help students thrive,” says Paul Calandra,
Minister of Education. “We continue to invest in safe, modern schools while
strengthening accountability and transparency across Ontario’s education system
to ensure that every dollar invested is preparing students with practical
skills for good-paying, stable careers.”
This new secondary school will have space for 1,400 students,
two double gyms, tech and trades spaces including three shops, and a dedicated
Indigenous education space. The school site will also feature an OFSSA-level
track and field facility, and green space for students and community members to
use.
Land preparation work is currently being done at the site.
Construction is expected to start this summer.
“This additional funding will ensure that this new school is
a vibrant hub for students to learn and grow within the community,” says
Trustee David McDonald. “The UCDSB appreciates the provincial government’s
continued investment and commitment to our local schools.”
“I also want to thank MPP Nolan Quinn and Mayor Towndale and
his council for working with us to make this new school happen. This project
has truly been a collaborative effort, and it’s one that will give back to the
community for generations to come,” added UCDSB Chief Executive Officer Ron
Ferguson.
This project was first approved by the Ministry of Education
in August 2017, and the UCDSB has been working with the Ministry and community
partners to move this project forward in a way that will benefit Cornwall
families.
“SDG is growing, and it’s critical that the resources our
families depend on grow right along with it,” said Nolan Quinn, MPP for
Stormont—Dundas—South Glengarry. “The new, modern Cornwall secondary school
will ensure parents and children have access to a high-quality education that
sets them up for successful, prosperous futures.”
The projected opening date for the new Cornwall Collegiate and Vocational
School is September 2029. The UCDSB will continue to update the community on
the progress of the school as new milestones are reached.
For media inquiries, please contact:
April Scott-Clarke
Manager of Communications
Upper Canada District School Board
[email protected]