Adam Prudhomme
Editor
Ground was broken in the yard of J.J. O’Neill on June 18, the first step in a major expansion for the Napanee Catholic school.
Students, staff, Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District Board trustees and local dignitaries were on hand to mark the occasion. Construction will get underway over the summer months, leading to the creation of 331 pupil places, 14 classrooms and three childcare rooms.
A rendering of the expansion for J.J. O’Neill Catholic School.
“This major addition will provide exciting opportunities for our elementary students in Napanee and area,” said David DeSantis, Director of Education. “Our Catholic school board is focused on providing innovative learning communities which will allow our students to reach their potential through faith and service.”
Greater Napanee mayor Terry Richardson spoke on behalf of the town.
“It’s really exciting for our municipality to have growth and expansion, especially within the school board system,” said Richardson. “It is welcome in our community and exciting for all of us and we we’re excited to see the progress that is going to happen through this summer.”
The architect for this project is Salter Pilon Architecture Inc. A completion date for the build is yet to be finalized.
The project was first announced in February of 2022, when the Ontario government announced a $9.9 million investment for an expansion of the school.