A new public high school in west Niagara is another step closer to becoming reality. The DSBN has finalized the purchase for 20 acres of land at 5699 King Street in Beamsville. The property is located just outside of the urban boundary in the Town of Lincoln.

Although the DSBN reached an agreement to purchase the property in 2018, the spring’s provincial election resulted in unforeseen delays in finalizing the purchase, which was contingent on receiving Ministry funding. On February 15, the Ontario Government confirmed it would fund the cost of land acquisition.

Board Chair Sue Barnett said everyone is relieved to get to this point. “This was a longer process than had been anticipated. But we are excited to move forward with site preparation and planning for the new school,” said Barnett.

“There are few things that energize a community more than a new school,” Doug Newton, DSBN Trustee for West Lincoln and Wainfleet. “It will provide students with many more pathways to success and we appreciate the support of the Ontario Government in moving this important project forward.”

With the site work beginning shortly, the new school is expected to open its doors in September, 2022.

With the purchase concluded, there are many exciting milestones to come. “The DSBN will be working to establish community partnerships to enhance the school and provide students with even more opportunities to pursue their interests and support their success,” said Warren Hoshizaki, DSBN Director of Education. Other important markers will include the design of the school, the beginning of construction, initiating the naming process, and the selection of school leadership.

The property is located central to the majority of students who will be boundaried to the new school. Its location will allow Niagara Student Transportation Services to keep bus ride times to a minimum. With 20 acres, the property will be able to support a bright, modern, and student-focused facility. It will also provide enough space for an athletic field and running track, as well as ample parking.

The new west Niagara secondary will bring together the populations of Grimsby and Beamsville District secondary schools. Both schools will remain open during the planning and construction phases of the new school build. “Each school is working to support a successful transition for students and to celebrate the many years of service the Grimsby and Beamsville buildings have given to the community,” said Helen McGregor, Superintendent of Curriculum and Student Achievement, 9-12.