April 4, 2018

The Conseil scolaire catholique du Nouvel-Ontario (CSCNO) and the Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board (HSCDSB) trustees have approved the construction of a joint facility that will enhance French and English Catholic education in Espanola.

The $25.2 million provided by the Ministry of Education will allow the construction of two distinct schools on the current Sacred Heart School and former St-Louis de France Catholic Church properties. This shared site will accommodate students from Sacred Heart Catholic Elementary School (kindergarten to grade 8) as well as students from École Saint-Joseph (kindergarten to grade 8) and École secondaire catholique Franco-Ouest (grade 9 to 12). Construction of the schools is slated to begin this spring. The site will also include 50 day care spaces in each school.

This project came together after the Ministry of Education encouraged school boards operating in Espanola to work together to address student accommodation needs in the area. The goal is to maximize the use of space while ensuring that all students continue to have access to the best programming possible in quality school facilities.

“This joint project will enhance Catholic education in Espanola while ensuring the respect of linguistic differences. We are proud to know that all of our students from kindergarten through grade 12 will now be able to study and grow together in the same learning establishment,” said Mr. André Bidal, President of the Conseil scolaire catholique du Nouvel-Ontario.

“This is great news for our students, staff and the community of Espanola. This new facility will enhance the learning experience for all students, both English and French,” added Mr. John Caputo, HSCDSB Chair.

Media contacts:
Brigitte Morin
Coordinator of External Relations
Conseil scolaire catholique du Nouvel-Ontario
705-673-5626, ext. 289


Jim Fitzpatrick
Communications Officer
Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board
705-945-5666