Changes are coming to a Thamesville elementary school.
At a recent board meeting, trustees with the St. Clair Catholic District School Board awarded an $895,444 contract to Agri-Urban Building Inc. of Dresden for mechanical and interior upgrades at Good Shepherd Catholic School.
Officials say the renovations support expanded childcare programming in partnership with the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and the Thamesville and Area Early Learning Centre childcare provider.
Work will include replacing four outdated classroom mechanical unit ventilators with modern electric units, upgrading the main office mechanical system, and improving the existing universal washroom to meet current standards.
A currently closed classroom will also be renovated to create a new 24-space preschool room to expand existing programming on site, complete with a dedicated outdoor play space and separate entrance.
“This exciting investment will help Good Shepherd continue to shine as a welcoming place where students can learn, grow, and thrive,” said Lisa Demers, Director of Education in a news release. “By enhancing safe, accessible learning spaces and expanding access to high-quality childcare, we are supporting families and helping build a bright future for the school community.”
“We are happy to partner with the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and the childcare provider to make this expansion possible,” added John Van Heck, Chair of the Board. “Partnerships like this strengthen our Catholic school communities and provide meaningful supports for young children and families.”
Funding for the project will come from School Condition Improvement funds, accessibility funding, and third-party funding from the Municipality of Chatham-Kent through the Ministry of Education.