Public Update from Near North District School Board’s Director of Education and Supervisor, May 1, 2026
We are pleased to share this update on the progress of the Parry Sound JK–12 school.
The project is moving steadily toward completion, and we are looking forward to opening a modern, well-equipped learning environment for students in the Parry Sound community.
Progress Update
Work on the Parry Sound JK-12 school continues to advance, with a number of key areas now complete or well underway.
- In the student hospitality area, commercial appliances are in place. Installation of prep tables is being finalized to allow for electrical hook-ups, with the kitchen on track to be ready by early June.
- Classroom setup has begun on the second floor, with furniture being tagged and installed.
- Cleaning of classroom spaces is well underway and ongoing.
- Gym bleacher installation is complete.
- Lobby ceilings and the cafetorium are complete.
- Hex pod electrical hook-ups and inspections are complete. Installation of heating and air conditioning units will follow upon delivery.
- Exterior cladding is underway, with all masonry work on track for completion by June.
- Efforts remain focused on completing all life safety components of the building to support occupancy and opening.
Next Steps
The following work is in progress or scheduled as the project moves toward completion:
- Installation of doors separating the elementary and secondary areas will be completed by Aug. 1, including two sets of doors (first and second floors). The school will also have separate, controlled entrances for the elementary and secondary areas, as well as a dedicated entrance for Child Care and EarlyON. Access cameras will be installed at the elementary and childcare entrances.
- Child Care and EarlyON spaces continue to progress alongside final work on the main school.
- The tender for abatement (preparation for demolition, including removal of designated substances) and demolition of the existing school closed April 29.
- Upcoming tenders include the parking lot and landscaping. The parking lot will include ample spaces, including accessible parking.
- Deficiencies from the original contractor are expected to be resolved by September.
- Additional spaces, including the new elementary library and office, are in progress.
- Some Indigenous design elements will be completed for June, with remaining elements finalized by September.
- Final cleaning and classroom setup will continue right up until opening day.
Planning for the transition from the existing high school to the new building is in its final stages to support a smooth and organized move. Additional details will be shared in the coming days.
The building is coming together well, with visible progress being done across all areas as we prepare to welcome students. We will provide regular updates in the coming days and weeks to keep everyone informed.
Sincerely,
Jay MacJanet Rebecca Bell
Director of Education Supervisor
