Ontario’s $1.3 billion commitment to education includes a much-anticipated new K-12 school in Newcastle. MPP David Piccini and Education Minister Jill Dunlop made the announcement on January 27, 2025, highlighting the project as part of 45 school builds and expansions across the province.
The new school will replace Clarke High School and Pines Senior Public School, providing 1,445 student spaces at a board-owned site on Grady Drive and Rudell Road. Minister Dunlop praised the Build Ontario plan, which prioritizes faster and more efficient school construction to support student success. “Our government is creating modern learning spaces to prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow,” she said.
Piccini called the school “a promise kept” to Newcastle families. “Our community deserves a state-of-the-art learning environment, and today’s announcement reflects the strong advocacy of parents, trustees, and local leaders,” he said.
The Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board welcomed the funding, noting the importance of addressing enrolment pressures and safety concerns at schools near the highway. “We are thrilled to bring this vision to life and extend our gratitude to the provincial government,” said Board Chair Jaine Klassen Jeninga.
The Ministry of Education will work with the school board to advance the project, which aims to ease overcrowding and support Newcastle’s growing community.
Visit www.ontario.ca/education for details.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)