Ontario approves tender for new Catholic elementary school in Picton

The Ontario government has provided the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board with approval to award the tender for the new replacement St. Gregory Catholic School at a 5.1 acre site at 175 Talbot St., in Picton.

In 2022, the school board received $4.6 million for land funding and was allocated $8.7 million through the ministry’s Capital Priorities program to construct the new 354-pupil junior kindergarten to Grade 8 school. The current St. Gregory school site next to the church, on Owen St., in Picton, is on 2.2 acres and is unable to accommodate further expansion.

“The funding for a new Catholic elementary school in Picton is great news for our community,” said Tyler Allsopp, MPP for Bay of Quinte. “Through this investment, we’re creating opportunities for students to thrive today and well into the future.”

Allsopp stated the project is supported by a total investment of $24.5 million, which includes additional funding of $3.3 million.

Carey Smith-Dewey, the Director of Education for the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board, welcomed news of the approval.

“This new build for St. Gregory Catholic School is a joyful step forward for students and families across Prince Edward County. This is more than just a new building – this school will be a place where young people discover their God-given talents, build strong relationships, and access new learning opportunities in a state-of-the-art facility,” said Smith-Dewey.

“With any of our new builds, our goal is to create a welcoming community where every student knows they are loved, feels safe, and has the conditions they need to succeed.”