The Ontario government has sanctioned funding exceeding $45 million for the establishment of new schools in Lucan and Middlesex Centre. Education Minister Stephen Lecce disclosed the decision during an announcement in Strathroy on Wednesday afternoon.
He stated that the Ministry of Education has granted approval for an allocation of nearly $25 million towards the construction of a new public elementary school in Lucan, which will also incorporate a child care facility. Additionally, the Ministry has endorsed an allocation of approximately $20.6 million for the establishment of a new Catholic elementary school along with a child care center in the Komoka/Kilworth area.
The forthcoming school in Lucan is projected to accommodate 531 students, alongside an 88-child capacity child care center. Similarly, the new school in Middlesex Centre is designed to cater to 434 students with an additional provision of 88 child care spaces. The timeline for the commencement of construction on these new educational facilities remains undisclosed at this juncture.
The new school in Lucan
At a cost of $25 million, including $3.5 million in child care funding, the new school will create 531 student spaces along with 88 licensed child care spaces.
It is unclear what the name of the new school in Lucan will be or when it will open its doors to students.
“This approval highlights the strength of collaboration between the Thames Valley District School Board and the ministry and is encouraging news for our communities where population continues to grow at a rapid rate. We look forward to the benefits this school will bring to the Lucan community, reflecting our commitment to providing quality education for all students,” TVDSB Chair Beth Mai said in a statement.
The new school in Komoka
Named St. Gabriel Catholic Elementary School, the newest school currently under construction in Komoka will be under the helm of the London District Catholic School Board (LDCSB) and is on track to open in early 2025, according to the school board.
At a cost of $20.6 million, including $2.6 million in child care funding, will create 424 student spaces along with 88 licensed child care spaces.
The 507-student school is located just outside London off Burloak Drive, near Hyde Park Road and Sunningdale Road. St. Gabriel will welcome students from St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Elementary School, with more than 400 students transferring to St. Gabriel.
“This is amazing news for families in Middlesex County and west London. This is an area in our region that is growing rapidly. A new elementary school will accommodate new students as well as relieve pressure on some of our existing schools,” said LDCSB Chair of the Board of Trustees Gabe Pizzuti.
