A new school year in Wasaga Beach

Eight weeks from now, hundreds of Wasaga Beach School children will be in their classes working towards their next grade.

For most, that first day back in school is exciting. For some it can be downright scary. This year there will be some that get to attend a brand new public school.

I have driven past the school twice in the last couple of weeks. I can only imagine the struggles the contractors must be having to ensure that everything is ready for day one. I have heard that the gymnasium facilities will not be completed by the time the school opens (from someone interested in renting it) but they will be completed shortly afterwards, possibly November. These are exciting times for Wasaga Beach. For those unaware, TheTown of Wasaga Beach entered into a shared facility agreement with the Simcoe County District School Board. Some changes to the design of the building were necessary. By resolving access, security and bathroom access issues, the town was able to have use of the gymnasium during hours when school is not in.

I recall there may have also been an ongoing maintenance amount for janitorial services.

Year round access for basketball and various recreational programs will be a welcome addition to our municipal services.

I’m also very intrigued to see what the immediate and long term effect will be on neighboring schools. I know they have re-drawn the boundaries for schools in that area.

This will undoubtedly result in some children going to school closer to home. I’m sure it will also relieve the pressure on class sizes in all Wasaga Beach Elementary and Public Schools.

Now… let’s hope for another elementary school in the East End and funding to build the much needed Public High School just a few blocks from the new Wasaga Beach Public School.