Near North District School Board

Near North District School Board announces Francis Pegahmagabow Elementary School as official name for new Parry Sound K-6 school

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Near North District School Board announces Francis Pegahmagabow Elementary School as official name for new Parry Sound K-6 school

PARRY SOUND, ON (August 17, 2026) – The Near North District School Board (NNDSB) is honoured to announce that the official name of the new Parry Sound K-6 school will be Francis Pegahmagabow Elementary School.

The school is named in recognition of Francis Pegahmagabow, a highly decorated Anishinaabe soldier of the First World War, Chief of Wasauksing First Nation, community leader, and advocate for Indigenous rights. His life was defined by courage, resilience, service, and a deep commitment to his people and community. His legacy continues to inspire generations across the Parry Sound area and beyond.

The naming honours the life and legacy of Francis Pegahmagabow and recognizes the enduring contributions of Indigenous Peoples to the Parry Sound region. It also provides an opportunity for students, staff, and families to learn about and celebrate the strength, leadership, and cultural heritage of the Anishinaabe people.

“Francis Pegahmagabow remains an important and respected figure within Wasauksing First Nation and beyond,” said Chief Shane Tabobondung of Wasauksing First Nation. “We are grateful to the Pegahmagabow family for their blessing and permission to share his name with this new school. His story will continue to inspire future generations of students.”

Francis Pegahmagabow Elementary School will welcome students from Kindergarten to Grade 6 into a modern, inclusive learning environment. Designed to support the needs of young learners, the school will offer learning spaces that encourage curiosity, collaboration, creativity, and student success.

“Naming our new school Francis Pegahmagabow Elementary School is a meaningful way to honour an extraordinary Anishinaabe leader whose legacy continues to inspire us today,” said Jay MacJanet, Director of Education for NNDSB. “As a place of learning, the school will provide opportunities for students to learn about his life, leadership, and contributions while reflecting on the values of courage, perseverance, service, and respect for community that he embodied. We are grateful for the guidance and partnership of Wasauksing First Nation as we celebrate this important milestone.”

“The opening of this new elementary school is an important milestone for students, families and the Parry Sound community,” said Paul Calandra, Minister of Education. “Naming the school in honour of Francis Pegahmagabow recognizes the remarkable legacy of an Anishinaabe leader and decorated veteran. It will also give students the opportunity to learn about Indigenous history and the lasting contributions of First Nations to Ontario and Canada.”

A ceremony will take place later this fall to celebrate the school’s name and the enduring legacy of Francis Pegahmagabow.

Media Contact

Communications@nearnorthschools.ca

Sincerely,

Jay MacJanet
Chief Executive Officer

Rebecca Bell
Supervisor

Update on the new Parry Sound JK-12 School

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August 11

Update on the new Parry Sound JK-12 School

We are pleased to provide an update on the ongoing progress of the new Parry Sound JK-12 School.

Most importantly, we remain on schedule to welcome students to both the elementary and secondary schools on September 8. All interior learning and working spaces are nearing completion, with only minor finishing touches remaining. Students and staff will be welcomed into a safe, modern, first-class facility designed to serve our community for many years to come.

While significant progress has been made, construction on some exterior elements of the project, including portions of the parking area, athletic track, and playground, will continue throughout the school year.

Progress Update

The demolition of the old school will be completed shortly. Blasting is expected to be completed by the first day of school. Work on sidewalks, curbs, and asphalt will continue until the onset of winter weather.

The kindergarten classrooms are complete, with washrooms and cubbies fully installed.

The elementary library is nearing completion and will be ready for students to enjoy on the first day of school.

The elementary office is under construction and will be completed before students arrive. All childcare spaces are complete. Security cameras are being finalized in key areas throughout the school.

The base layer of the athletic track has been installed and will provide a safe surface for student use beginning in September. During construction, unforeseen issues with the storm drainage system were identified. Addressing these drainage concerns is essential to ensure water is properly managed beneath and around the track. Without these corrections, the track surface could shift, settle, or warp over time, significantly reducing its lifespan and increasing future maintenance requirements. To ensure the track is completed to the highest standard and remains a long-lasting asset for the community, the final rubberized running surface will be installed in Spring 2027.

The grass field located inside the track will be installed later this month. To allow the sod to establish properly, the area will be fenced off during the first few weeks of September before opening for student use.

The parking lot entrance off Joseph Street will be complete to start the school year, as well as the parking areas around the childcare centre and the main entrance (the “light bulb” area). Accessible parking spaces will also be available.

Demolition of the former school site revealed significantly more bedrock requiring blasting than originally anticipated, which has affected the timeline for completion of the parking areas located alongside Joseph Street and Isabella Street. The parking lots and roadways will be substantially complete by mid to late October (barring weather delays), with final work scheduled for Spring 2027. Temporary parking and roadways will be in place where possible to start the school year to facilitate traffic flow and parking until substantial completion.

Staff from the Nipissing-Parry Sound Student Transportation Services consortium have reviewed both the temporary bus loop that will be in place to begin the school year, and the long-term traffic plan to be implemented when all site works are complete. The parties continue to work together to ensure that all necessary safety measures will be in place to start the school year, and students, staff and families can expect additional information from the school administrators before the school year begins regarding parent drop-off and pick-up areas, staff and student parking, and planned traffic flow.

There will be an update on the elementary play area, including the play structure and hard-surface play areas, in the next week or two. The grassed portions of the play area are expected to be completed in Spring 2027.

Unfortunately, as construction has progressed, the project team has encountered unforeseen challenges related to site conditions, previous deficiencies, and natural impediments beyond our control. Despite these obstacles, crews have worked diligently to keep the project moving forward while ensuring that quality and safety remain the highest priorities.

While some exterior work will continue, we are proud that students and staff will begin the school year in a beautiful, bright environment that is safe, accessible, and built to a high standard. The additional time required for some elements of the project will help ensure the school and grounds are completed properly and will serve staff, students, families, and the broader community well for decades to come.

We sincerely appreciate your patience, understanding, and support throughout this process. We ask that you continue to bear with us as crews complete the remaining work over the coming months. We will continue to provide updates as information becomes available.

We look forward to welcoming students and staff and beginning an exciting new chapter for education in Parry Sound.

Sincerely,

Jay MacJanet
Chief Executive Officer

Rebecca Bell
Supervisor

 

Parry Sound High School hex pods will offer a unique school experience for intermediate students

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Parry Sound High School hex pods will offer a unique school experience for intermediate students

Tuesday, July 14, 2026

The Near North District School Board is pleased to share plans for Grade 7 and 8 students at Parry Sound High School beginning this September.

Grade 7 and 8 students will have dedicated learning spaces in the school’s modern hex pods, creating a unique intermediate school experience while also providing opportunities to be part of the larger secondary school community. The hex pods feature climate-controlled classrooms, including air conditioning, secure access through key cards, built-in storage for student belongings and learning materials, and convenient access to designated washrooms located just inside the main building.

While their core classroom learning will take place primarily in the hex pods, they will also spend time in the main school building each day for:

  • Physical Education classes
  • Cafeteria access
  • Mentorship opportunities with older students
  • Collaborative learning experiences
  • School-wide events and activities

This approach will provide Grade 7 and 8 students with a strong sense of belonging within their intermediate cohort while also allowing them to experience the opportunities, connections, and school spirit that come with being part of the larger school community.

We look forward to welcoming our Grade 7 and 8 students this fall.

2026-2027 Budget Approved

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2026–2027 Budget Approved

The Near North District School Board is pleased to announce that the 2026–2027 budget has been approved, reflecting our continued commitment to student learning and responsible financial stewardship.

The approved budget supports the Board’s strategic priorities while maintaining fiscal responsibility, ensuring that resources are directed where they are needed most to benefit our students, schools, and communities.

View the 2026–2027 Budget: NNDSB 2026-2027 Approved Budget Report

Two Parry Sound High School grads earn prestigious Schulich awards

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Tuesday, June 23, 2026

Two Parry Sound High School grads earn prestigious Schulich awards

Hard work and perseverance have paid off for two Parry Sound High School (PSHS) graduating students as they were recognized with prestigious Schulich awards this spring.

Grade 12 students Paige West and Ceci Martens have both been recognized by the Schulich Foundation for their academic achievements in the skilled trades (West) and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) (Martens).

West was chosen as a recipient of the $40,000 Schulich Builders Award for students pursuing post-secondary education in the skilled trades. She is the first PSHS student to ever win this award.

West’s award is intended to combat the shortage of skilled trades in Ontario and amplify their importance and value to our communities. Award winners are identified and nominated within their schools as being responsible, hardworking, dedicated people with a strong work ethic and character. West certainly fits the bill.

She will be attending Cambrian College in Sudbury in the fall to study in the Electrical Engineering Technician Program.

Ceci Martens has been named as a recipient of the prestigious Schulich Leaders award valued at $100,000.

This award, geared toward students in STEM fields, not only provides significant financial support to winners but also connects them with a network of mentors within their fields of study.

Martens said that she was in a state of shock and disbelief when she received the news that she had won a Schulich Leader Scholarship.

“This award will take the financial stress off my time at university and allow me to pursue opportunities such as research and internships during the summer,” Martens said. “I am also looking forward to meeting a network of like-minded students and mentors.”

Martens will be studying Mathematics and Statistics at McMaster University in the fall, intending to pursue a career in digital encryption.

“I first learned about encryption at math camp at the University of Ottawa in Grade 10. It fascinated me because it was a practical application of my two favourite areas of math, number theory and abstract algebra.”

“My teachers at PSHS have been incredibly supportive, and I would especially like to thank Mr. Loewen, my physics and calculus teacher, for encouraging me to apply for this scholarship,” Martens said.

While she is not yet sure exactly what her dream job would be, Martens said she is excited to see what opportunities await her in the field of mathematics and encryption.

Martens has been interested in math since a young age and has advice for like-minded students. “My advice for younger students with an interest in math is to remember that math is a very broad subject, ranging from purely abstract proofs to applications in most areas of science,” Martens said. “One of the most valuable experiences I have had with math is my participation in math contests, and I would encourage younger students to try them out.”

This is the second year in a row that Near North District School Board students have received Schulich awards. Last year, Almaguin Highlands Secondary School (AHSS) student Keith Rubin won the $120,000 Schulich Leader Scholarship for engineering. Rubin was the first AHSS student to win a Schulich award.

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Introducing Our New Student and Family Support Office

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June 18, 2026

We are excited to launch the Near North District School Board’s new Student and Family Support Office. A provincial initiative, this service is designed to provide families with a direct way to access support, raise concerns, and find timely solutions.

As always, your first point of contact should be your child’s school. Many questions or concerns can be quickly resolved by connecting with the classroom teacher, principal, or vice-principal.

If additional support is needed, the Student and Family Support Office is here to help. Our team can guide you through next steps, connect you with the right departments, and support more complex situations to ensure your concerns are addressed.

There are three convenient ways to connect with us:

Please visit our Student and Family Support Office webpage to learn more.

Warm regards,
NNDSB Student and Family Support Office

F.J. McElligott art students help to beautify Canadian Ecology Centre

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After the devastating storm that ravaged Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park and the Canadian Ecology Centre (CEC) a year ago, the work of repairing, replanting and revitalizing has steadily progressed. Parts of the park are now open to campers and the Canadian Ecology Centre will once again welcome students this summer.

Art students from F.J. McElligott Secondary School have also lent their skills to the re-beautification of the area by contributing four paintings, which will be displayed in the CEC.

The paintings, which were created by last year’s graduating class, were scheduled to be installed in the CEC on the day after the tragic storm. That event was, of course, put on hold, and finally, after a year of recovery, the art was presented to Canadian Ecology Centre founder and general manager Bill Steer by current Grade 9/10 visual arts students.

F.J. McElligott teacher, Josie Morin said the CEC had proposed this initial project that celebrates the 7 Grandfather Teachings.

“The Grade 12 visual arts class spent time brainstorming how we can honour and acknowledge the 7 Grandfather Teachings in a way that is respectful and meaningful, yet reflects our personal connections within them,” Morin said. “We collaborated with my Grade 11 English: Understanding Contemporary First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Voices class.”

One thing that stood out to students, Morin said, was that all of the teachings truly work together and that none should be excluded or left behind in our journey.

“Students decided that the wolf (humility), the bear (courage), the buffalo (respect), the turtle (truth), the eagle (love), the beaver (wisdom) would be highlighted within their own sphere, with the footprints of the Sabe (Honesty) following behind the landscape within each teaching.”

As part of the visit, students were taken on a tour of what the CEC looks like now, almost a year after the storm. Bill Steer talked to students about the changes to the landscape and provided stories about the journey that the CEC has been on during the last year.

Students were provided with the opportunity to create plein air illustrations of the landscape around them, which they then used as inspiration for a collaborative chalk mural on the closed roads of the park.

Morin said she hopes that students took in the opportunity to create artwork in the moment, with real reference photos in front of them.

“I hope students soaked in the beautiful opportunity to sit by the water and listen to nature around them while they create,” Morin said.

Art student Izzy said, “I had a fabulous day touring and making art. I enjoyed sitting by the water at the bridge to draw the landscape. It was relaxing, and I liked what I created.”

“Bill made the experience engaging,” fellow student Kaleb said. “I appreciate him providing the experience through the Canadian Ecology Centre. I’d give it a 10-star experience getting to create art in nature.”

Reminder: Information Night on West Nipissing Schools Configuration

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This is a reminder about the upcoming public information night being held on Wednesday, June 17 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the auditorium of Northern Secondary School.

This session will provide information about upcoming changes to the configuration of schools in West Nipissing. Beginning September 8, White Woods Public School will serve Kindergarten to Grade 6 students, and Northern Secondary School will welcome Grades 7 and 8 students, operating as a Grade 7–12 school.

Representatives from both the Near North District School Board and Conseil scolaire publique du Nord-Est de l’Ontario will share information and be available to answer questions.

We encourage all families to attend to learn more and ask questions about these changes.

We look forward to seeing you there.

If you are unable to attend, but have a question about the event or plans, you can send your question to info@nearnorthschools.ca with the subject line: Questions about West Nipissing schools with a deadline of noon on Tuesday, June 16.

Biindigen

Mii gwi Anishinabek wewena nkenmaaminak dependajig maa kiing.
"We acknowledge in a good way, the original people of the land here"
We value the cultures, histories and relationships with the Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island (North America)

Connect With Us

Near North District School Board
963 Airport Road, P.O. Box 3110, North Bay, ON P1B 8H1
[P] 705-472-8170   [TF] 1-800-278-4922   [F] 705-472-9927