June 24, 2026 (Cornwall, ON) – The Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) is excited to share that the new Cornwall Collegiate & Vocational School, being built on the northeast side of Nick Kaneb Dr. and Marleau Avenue, is set to be even bigger than originally planned.
The Ministry of Education has granted the UCDSB approval to proceed with adding four additional classrooms to the original scope of the school.
With the addition of these four classrooms, 92 student spaces will be added, bringing the school’s total capacity to 1,492 students. When complete, the new Cornwall Collegiate & Vocational School will be the largest school within the UCDSB.
“To say we are excited about this project is an understatement. The new Cornwall Collegiate & Vocational School will be a state-of-the-art learning facility for students for generations to come,” said UCDSB Chief Executive Officer Ron Ferguson. “The first time UCDSB staff met with MPP Nolan Quinn regarding this project, he shared that securing full funding and seeing the new high school built as quickly as possible in Cornwall was one of his top priorities. He has been invaluable in his advocacy, guidance, and support in helping to keep this project moving forward, and we sincerely thank him for his efforts. We also want to thank Minister of Education Paul Calandra for his continued investment in the students and communities of Eastern Ontario.”
The overall funding for the new school building remains unchanged at just over $85 million. When factoring in outdoor space, track facilities, and land acquisition costs, this project represents a $97.5 million investment in public education.
“Student success starts with modern classrooms and world-class learning environments,” said Nolan Quinn, MPP for Stormont—Dundas—South Glengarry. “Backed by a more than $85 million investment from our government, we are ensuring that even more students can attend the new Cornwall Secondary School and have access to the education they need to thrive and fulfill their potential.”
The UCDSB is confident that this project will remain within budget and open on the expected timeline (September 2029). Bourgon Construction, the project contractor, has confirmed that it prioritizes a regional approach to subcontractors, suppliers, service providers, and its workforce, and that the company is aligned with the UCDSB in maintaining a cost-effective delivery model that emphasizes long-term value.
“This new school has been a long-term vision for the UCDSB and one that I personally have been invested in since the start. With the addition of space to accommodate nearly 100 more students, the UCDSB will be even better positioned to meet the changing needs of this community,” said Trustee David McDonald. “I’m also proud that we were able to partner with a locally based business. This new school is not just going to have a positive impact on our students, but it will also have a positive economic impact on the City of Cornwall.”
This new secondary school will serve students from Grades 7–12 and will include two double gyms, a large track and field facility, and green space for students and community members to enjoy. There will be modern classrooms with designated spaces for technical/trades learning and Indigenous education. The school will be designed to support future growth as needed.
“Our government is focused on supporting students, teachers, and parents while ensuring school boards are equipping students with the tools they need to succeed,” said Paul Calandra, Minister of Education. “Once completed, this project will offer an inspiring learning environment that helps students prepare for the jobs of tomorrow. Our government will continue to provide the resources students need to achieve success.”
The UCDSB will continue to work collaboratively with community and Ministry partners as this project progresses and will provide updates as new milestones are reached.
For more information or inquiries, please contact:
April Scott-Clarke
Manager of Communications
Upper Canada District School Board
[email protected]