UPPER CANADA DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD

October 20, 2023 (Williamstown, ON) — Today, the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB), local dignitaries and members of the South Glengarry community celebrated the grand opening of the Williamstown Public School addition with a ribbon cutting ceremony. This occasion marks the completion of a $6.6 million expansion project, funded by the Ministry of Education and UCDSB renewal funds.

In December 2021, the UCDSB received approval to proceed with the expansion project at Williamstown Public School, located in the heart of Williamstown. Ministry of Education funding supported the construction of five new classrooms, including a new Kindergarten room, resource and general-purpose rooms, adding a total of 118 new pupil spaces to the school building.

“We are determined to build schools and expansions faster, part of our commitment to modernize schools in fast growing communities," said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education. "We are proud to deliver a new, state-of-the-art addition at Williamstown Public School for local families, along with increasing funding, staffing and a back-to-basics focus on reading, writing and math skills to help ensure students graduate with confidence that they can succeed in good-paying careers."

In addition to the expansion, the rural school has undergone various upgrades and enhancements aimed at providing a modern and inclusive learning environment. These enhancements include additional washrooms, the installation of a barrier-free, gender-neutral washroom, replacement or retrofitting of the school’s HVAC system for improved ventilation and air conditioning, a renovated courtyard, and an upgraded electrical supply.

“I am pleased to see that Williamstown Public School has undergone new additions and upgrades with the funding the UCDSB received from the Ministry of Education,” says Nolan Quinn, MPP for Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry. “Providing a safe and inclusive environment for students to learn close to where they live is vital for our community’s success. Rural schools are the backbone of the community and are imperative to children’s success.”

This project is part of the province’s capital investment program to support students with improved learning spaces. Williamstown Public School, which offers both English and French Immersion programming, currently has approximately 370 students enrolled.

"The grand opening of this expanded and enhanced facility is a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional learning environments for students. Williamstown Public School now stands as a symbol of progress, community investment, and the limitless potential of our students in South Glengarry," says UCDSB Chair John McAllister.

For media inquiries, please contact:

April Scott-Clarke
Manager of Communications
Upper Canada District School Board
[email protected]