Province issues tender approval for first Wasaga Beach high school

Rendering of the first Catholic high school in Wasaga Beach, Ont.

Wasaga Beach is one step closer to its first high school after the province authorized the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board (SMCDSB) to issue its construction tender.

In a Friday news release, the town called it another ‘important’ step in the construction of the kindergarten to grade 12 Catholic school and confirmed that the province is also supporting it with an additional $4.5 million in funding.

“A long-awaited milestone for local education and a clear commitment to helping students learn, grow, and succeed right here at home,” said Mayor Brian Smith in part of his statement in the news release. “The Town, SMCDSB, and Province have worked hand-in-hand to move this project forward with a shared vision. Together, we are building more than just a school — we are creating a true community hub with modern learning and recreation spaces, licensed childcare, post-secondary opportunities, and a 300-seat theatre that will benefit students, families, and all residents across Wasaga Beach."

The facility at 486 River Road West will include more than a thousand new student spaces, 49 licensed childcare spaces, a 300-seat theatre and a track-and-field facility among other amenities. The town estimates that it will curb out-of-town commutes for nearly 800 high school students.

It will also function as a community hub, offering shared spaces for learning, recreation and arts that can be used beyond school hours.

“Wasaga Beach continues to grow, and this project is a strong example of what can be achieved when local and provincial partners work together with a shared focus on the future,” said Brian Saunderson, Simcoe–Grey MPP. “The new Wasaga K-12 campus and community hub is an innovative investment that will support local families and strengthen the community for generations. Our government is proud to help move this important project forward as part of Ontario’s ongoing commitment to putting students first and building the infrastructure communities need.”

Construction is expected to begin this spring and the town says classrooms are slated to be open for the 2027-2028 academic year.