Design blueprints for a new school in Chatham-Kent were presented to the St. Clair Catholic District School Board of trustees Tuesday evening.
After four input sessions with the South Chatham Catholic Elementary School Consultation Committee along with members of the school community, a design proposal for the new building has been put forward.
"Members of the Consultation Committee have done tremendous work in bringing their thoughts and ideas forward to help create this exceptional plan for our new school,” said Director of Education Deb Crawford. "Thanks to all who participated in the committee and to VG Architects, who are leading the design work. Their expertise and skill in capturing the committee’s vision has been exceptional."
Last month, representatives from the school board's special education and Catholic learning services departments and CLASS, which provides student transportation, facility and child care providers were also invited to offer their input. The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has also participated in a site plan review.
Features of the new school include a 60,000 square foot, two-storey building with a 5,500 square foot gymnasium, 24 classrooms, a child care centre with three rooms for children ranging from infants to pre-school aged, all located on an eight acre site with 105 parking spaces.
Back in 2017, the province approved construction for two new schools in Chatham. St. Angela Merici Catholic School on McNaughton Avenue opened last September. The new South Chatham Catholic School is expected to open by September 2023.
Over $13 million in funding is being allocated for the school's construction, which includes $1.5 million for the day care centre.