NORTH BAY — New school buildings and childcare spaces, as well as major renovations and additions to existing schools, may be on the horizon says the government.
The 2019-20 Capital Priorities program was launched today which allows school boards to access funding for large-scale projects in every region of the province.
"This may be good news on the horizon for our Near North Board," Chair Jay Aspin told BayToday. "We are currently planning two schools WJ Fricker elementary in North Bay and Parry Sound High School and have a number of renovations that may qualify."
"We are investing in our students and their futures by building new schools and renovating existing schools because I believe better schools mean better learning environments for the next generation," said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education.
School boards can now apply for funding for capital projects including new school buildings or renovations to be completed by 2023-24. The program will also provide funding for school-based childcare spaces as part of the government's aim to build up to 10,000 new childcare spaces in schools.
This funding will build new schools and help existing schools replace aging heating or air conditioning systems, repair roofs and windows, and install accessibility features like elevators and ramps, and support the expansion of childcare spaces.
The Ministry of Education wants school boards to submit their top 10 school-based capital priorities for funding consideration. These are the school boards’ highest priority capital projects required within the next three years.
