Listowel, Milverton schools expand classrooms and childcare spaces ahead of new school year

An undated image of Listowel Eastdale Public School. (Source: Listowel Eastdale Public School/Facebook)

Two schools in Perth County are welcoming more students and families this week after completing major expansions.

Matthew Rae, MPP for Perth–Wellington, announced Monday that Listowel Eastdale Public School and Milverton Elementary School have finished construction on new classrooms and childcare spaces. The projects represent a combined $11.6-million investment, adding 98 student spaces and 88 childcare spaces.

“The completion of these expansions at two of our rural schools is very welcomed news for our local communities and families,” said MPP Rae in a media release. “As Listowel and Milverton continue to grow, it is important that our schools and childcare centres meet the growing demand for childcare and student spaces. Our provincial government will continue to invest in our rural public school system.”

The funding is part of Ontario’s 10-year, $23-billion plan to support school construction, renewal and improvement.

“We will continue to invest in safe, modern schools while strengthening accountability and transparency across Ontario’s education system to ensure that every dollar invested is preparing students with practical skills for good-paying, stable careers,” Minister of Education Paul Calandra said in part.

The Avon Maitland District School Board said the new childcare spaces will help meet demand in the growing communities of North Perth and Perth East.