Bluewater District School Board is moving forward with next steps in the construction of a new school in Markdale to replace Beavercrest Community School following an Approval to Proceed by the Ministry of Education.

Land Priorities funding has been approved by the ministry to support the board’s request for acquiring additional land adjacent to the current school property. The additional land will help to create a construction zone that ensures the safety of the school’s existing students and staff.

Previously approved ministry funding in the amount of $6.4 million will be used to build the new 236 pupil Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 replacement facility. An additional $2.1 million in approved funding will be dedicated to creating two childcare spaces and two EarlyON spaces at the same site.

“The funding for this new school is great news for our community. On behalf of Minister of Education Stephen Lecce, I am pleased to see the Beavercrest project taking the next step, and I look forward to breaking ground on the new school in the near future,” says Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Bill Walker. “This investment will provide a quality learning environment and new opportunities for the children of Grey County.”

“I join many in the Markdale area in their excitement as the next steps begin to unfold in building the new Beavercrest Community School. Thank you to the Ministry of Education and MPP Bill Walker for strongly supporting and recognizing the importance of a replacement facility. This extends to our staff and many municipal and community partners whose advocacy and contributions have ensured an amazing outcome for this project,” says Jim Dawson, Trustee for the Township of Southgate/Municipality of Grey Highlands.

“We look forward to the incredible transformation that is about to take place in Markdale as area students, families, staff, and the community get ready to welcome a brand new Beavercrest Community School. Congratulations to those who have so passionately worked toward the vision of a vibrant and sustainable future of educational excellence in Markdale,” says Director of Education Alana Murray.

Next steps include procuring the property and establishing the design and timelines. A ground breaking is anticipated for later this year with further information to be communicated as details become available.

source: media release, BWDSB