Construction on a new, $24.5 million Catholic elementary school in Picton begins this spring.

The Ontario government approved the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board’s request to award the tender for a replacement for St. Gregory’s Catholic School March 12. The project means 354 new elementary student spaces for local families.

“The funding for a new Catholic elementary school in Picton is great news for our community,” said Tyler Allsopp, MPP for Bay of Quinte. “Through this investment, we’re 

creating opportunities for students to thrive today and well into the future.”

Carey Smith-Dewey, Director of Education for ALCDSB, welcomed the approval news. “This new build for St. Gregory Catholic School is a joyful step forward for students and families across Prince Edward County. This is more than just a new building – this school will be a place where young people discover their God-given talents, build strong relationships, and access new learning opportunities in a state-of-the-art facility,” she said. “With any of our new builds, our goal is to create a welcoming community where every student knows they are loved, feels safe, and has the conditions they need to succeed.”

Building will be by Bourgon Construction. The Kingston firm has built several schools, including JJ O’Neil Catholic School in Napanee and Barrhaven High School near Ottawa.

The new St. Gregory Catholic School will be at 175 Talbot Street. The current school on Owen Street will ultimately be declared surplus and sold as per the Ontario government’s rules on the disposition of crown property.