The Ontario Ministry of Education has committed $26.5 million for the construction of a new Kindergarten to Grade 8 elementary school in Paris. The planned facility, which will include 64 childcare spaces, is part of the province’s efforts to address the needs of the growing community and its expanding residential developments.
The new school is designed to accommodate 536 students and will feature a gymnasium, library, special education rooms, resource spaces, and four childcare rooms. Construction is expected to be completed in time for the school’s opening in September 2027.
The Grand Erie District School Board, which oversees three elementary schools and one secondary school in Paris, currently serves 2,231 students. As part of the project, the board will undertake a boundary review and a naming process for the new school, with updates to be shared with the community as they become available.
Officials at both the provincial and local levels have welcomed the announcement. Susan Gibson, Chair of the Grand Erie District School Board, expressed gratitude for the investment, calling it a step forward in creating a safe and inclusive learning environment.
Director of Education JoAnna Roberto added that the new school would provide families in Paris with access to a state-of-the-art educational facility, further enhancing opportunities for students and staff to succeed.
The Ontario government has emphasized its commitment to building schools faster and more efficiently as part of its larger plan to address infrastructure needs in growing communities. Education Minister Jill Dunlop described the investment as a vital step in ensuring students and families have access to modern, quality learning environments.
Brantford-Brant MPP Will Bouma also highlighted the broader benefits of the project, noting its role in supporting local growth and development. Bouma emphasized that the new school, combined with recent infrastructure investments, would help Paris and surrounding areas welcome new families while addressing critical space shortages in local schools.
With construction set to begin soon, the project represents a significant milestone for Paris, ensuring that the town’s expanding population has access to quality education close to home.
