Members of the community joined the BGCDSB senior administration team and Board of Trustees to learn more about the board’s plans for Owen Sound’s new Catholic school. Director of Education, Gary O’Donnell, welcomed those in attendance before Jack Ammendolia, managing partner at Watson & Associates, presented the enrollment projections for the Owen Sound schools in the coming years.
The community was then given background information on the process and steps required to receive approval for the new build. Alecia Lantz, Superintendent of Business and Treasurer, shared that this journey began in 2015 and, following a number of hurdles, finally received Ministry approval in April, 2022.
“This announcement means we have the opportunity to consider the programs and services that we need,” said Alecia Lantz. “A new grade configuration that supports the best learning opportunities, the space to form partnerships that will support our student and community needs, and reduction of the soon to be 21 portables in Owen Sound.” This announcement was met with applause by those in attendance.
This information led to a design sprint session delivered by Alex Van Wieringen, Superintendent of Education. The attendees were invited to jot down their ideas to best utilize all four Owen Sound Catholic school buildings, including the upcoming grade 9 to 12 secondary school. The community then shared their ideas in person and were asked to submit their favourite ideas by email or a ThoughtExchange poll. BGCDSB has also asked the community to share their questions through a submission form which will be the source of the upcoming FAQ website.
Those interested in submitting a question can do so at this Google Form and can submit their ideas at the ThoughtExchage here which will be active until June 30th, 2022.