On September 15, the CDSBEO Board of Trustees approved the initiation of a Standard School Boundary Review for the Carleton Place study area, in accordance with CDSBEO Administrative Procedure 1112: School Boundary Review.

The review would examine attendance boundaries, grade configurations, and program delivery across St. Gregory Catholic School and St. Mary Catholic School (Carleton Place). The technical background report identifies significant residential and enrolment growth, uneven student distribution, and differing utilization pressures across the study area. A Standard Review is recommended because preliminary accommodation options are estimated to affect more than 10% of students within the affected schools. With this approval, the Board will begin a comprehensive process of analysis, consultation, and development of a final recommendation for Board consideration.

Rationale:

The Town of Carleton Place continues to experience residential growth, resulting in increasing student enrolment and changing student distribution patterns. Growth is not projected to occur uniformly. By 2035-36, St. Gregory Catholic School is projected at 116% utilization, St. Mary Catholic School at 138%. These projections support reviewing current boundaries and grade structures to make effective and equitable use of available pupil places.

Financial Impact:

There is no capital expenditure being requested through this report. Any financial or transportation implications associated with specific accommodation options will be assessed as part of the Standard School Boundary Review and presented with the final recommendation for Board consideration.

Timelines:

The Standard School Boundary Review will proceed in accordance with Administrative Procedure 1112: School Boundary Review. The process would begin in September 2026 with approval of the technical report by the Board of Trustees and establishment of the School Boundary Review Committee. Options would be developed and refined through the Committee process and consultation in the fall of 2026. The goal would be to present the preferred Committee option to the Board of Trustees for final approval in December 2026. Approved changes would then be implemented for the 2027-2028 school registration season

Documents and Resources