ALCDSB buzzing as first day of school nears

As local high schools and elementary students prepare for the first day of school this week, construction is continuing on several new builds for the Algonquin Lakeshore Catholic District School Board.

CEO Carey Smith-Dewey says a groundbreaking was held earlier this year for a brand new St. Gregory Catholic School in Picton.

“It’s an an amazing part of Picton, a growing area. It is coming along so well. It’s amazing how quickly they can move on a project like that.”

An opening date has not been announced.

Monsignor J.J. O’Neill Catholic School in Napanee and Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Amherstview are getting rebuilds.

Smith-Dewey adds there are a lot of changes coming to education including new curriculum for several grade levels and changes to attendance and participation for secondary schools.

She says they will be there to help students and families adjust.

“And that we are working really hard to ensure that we continue to offer that relationship-based education that we provide in our school communities, and relationship is always first. And we look forward to embracing the changes and ensuring everyone feels welcome and heard and supported in the classroom.”

Students return to class Wednesday, September 2.