A new Catholic elementary school is coming to Mildmay as the province invests $14.98 million to address growing enrolment pressures and expand child care access.
The new Sacred Heart Catholic School will replace the current building, which is operating beyond capacity. Plans include 245 student spaces and 39 licensed child care spaces to better serve local families.
Data from the Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board shows the existing school had a utilization rate of 123 per cent, with 178 students in a building designed for 144.
The new school will be constructed at 8 Vincent Street, while the current facility is located on Peter Street.
Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson says the project is based on community input and reflects continued population growth in the region.
Board Chair Lori Di Castri called the announcement a “historic day” for the community, saying the new school and child care centre will provide the space and resources families need to thrive.
South Bruce Mayor Mark Goetz also welcomed the investment, noting it supports a growing population and helps build a strong future for the municipality.
The project is part of Ontario’s broader Capital Priorities program, which commits more than $22 billion over 10 years toward school construction, renewal, and improvements. The province says it is currently investing $1.6 billion in 79 school projects, creating more than 29,000 new student spaces and 1,900 child care spaces.
Education Minister Paul Calandra says the investments are aimed at ensuring students have modern learning environments and that projects are delivered efficiently and on schedule.
The province is also proposing new legislation aimed at improving accountability and oversight in school construction planning, with a focus on supporting student success.