The Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) has started an accommodation review of three schools in the northern part of Wellington County.
Board chairman Mark Bailey said the review was triggered by a downturn in enrolment at Kenilworth Public School, to about 100 full and part time students, down from a benchmark of 120 set previously by the board.
At its March meeting the board approved moving forward with the review, which will also include Victoria Cross Public School in Mount Forest and Arthur Public School.
Bailey said the focus will be on Kenilworth and the impact a possible closure will have on the two other schools.
“Our starting-off point that is triggering the process is Kenilworth, not Victoria Cross and Arthur,” Bailey said. “These two schools are being considered because of the potential impact of new students in these schools.”
In 2003, after the last review concluded, the boundaries for Kenilworth were expanded, a release from the board stated.
The review board is expected to have representatives from UGDSB staff, the principals from the three schools, parent representatives and a municipal representative.
Trustees, said Bailey, might also be involved in a non-voting capacity.
“Reviews are challenging,” he said.
“It’s about trying to create a working environment so a community can make the best decisions about the long-term plans for students in the area.”
Bailey said he expects results will be made available by February 2015, when teacher hirings are considered.
He said parents will be involved in the process and kept up to date on the review progress.
Bailey added letters have already gone out to parents.
