The Ontario government is investing $1.6 billion in 79 school construction projects across the province, supporting growing communities and creating new student and childcare spaces.
The investments will help create over 29,000 student spaces and over 1,900 licensed childcare spaces to set students up for success and prepare them for in-demand careers.
Locally the province is investing $6.4 million toward a new addition at Buckhorn Public School, located at 1783 Lakehurst Road in Buckhorn. When complete, the project will deliver 98 new elementary student spaces and 49 new licensed childcare spaces for local families in the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board.
“This investment to expand Buckhorn Public School is a major milestone for local families and a vital step forward for Trent Lakes and the surrounding area,” said MPP for Peterborough-Kawarthas Dave Smith. “I am absolutely thrilled to see this project advance, as it directly addresses the growing demand for childcare and modern student spaces throughout our neighboring communities. By expanding this facility, we are ensuring that youth across the region have access to a safe, up-to-date, and fully equipped learning environment right close to home for years to come.”
This funding will support a combination of new school builds, expansions and retrofits across the province and is part of Ontario’s commitment to provide more than $22 billion over 10 years to support new school construction, renewal and improvements.
“We want schools to be at the heart of the communities they serve, from preschool to graduation,” said Paul Brown, Chairperson of the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board. “We extend our sincere thanks to the provincial government for this capital investment that makes it possible to better support our students here at Buckhorn Public School. We are very excited for the opportunity to enhance this school, which we know will benefit our students and families in the Buckhorn school community for many years to come.”
In April 2026, Ontario introduced the Putting Student Achievement First Act, 2026, that if passed, aims to bring greater accountability, consistency and modernization to Ontario’s education system through new and enhanced measures to further support student success.
“Student success starts with having the right environment to learn,” said Minister of Education Paul Calandra. “We’re building the school’s students need, and we’re making sure they get built quickly and on schedule. With stronger oversight and accountability through the Putting Student Achievement First Act, we are ensuring projects are delivered on time and focused on students, so that parents can be confident their children have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.”
(Written by: Felicia Massey)
