May 14, 2026
Important School configuration update in West Nipissing
We are writing to share important information about upcoming changes to our school configurations in West Nipissing.
Beginning September 8, White Woods Public School will become the home for Kindergarten to Grade 6 students, and Northern Secondary School will welcome Grades 7 and 8 students, operating as a Grade 7-12 school.
This change will have a positive impact on students at both White Woods and Northern Secondary. It will allow White Woods to serve its Kindergarten to Grade 6 students more comfortably, improving access to appropriate learning spaces and support services. This replicates the successful model that is in place at most secondary schools in Near North District School Board (NNDSB).
Why we are making this change
As many of you are aware, White Woods is currently over capacity. While this growth reflects the strength of the school community, it also places pressure on learning spaces, with two junior classes currently using the library as a classroom.
At the same time, there is available space at Northern Secondary School. While a portion of the building is occupied by École secondaire publique Nipissing Ouest, the NNDSB-occupied portion has capacity to serve approximately 630 students and has the space and facilities to successfully accommodate intermediate students. Operating a school that is underutilized is not the most effective use of our resources. Maintaining school buildings requires significant investment, and as a system, we must use our facilities in a way that is responsible, efficient, and sustainable, while providing appropriate and purpose-built learning spaces for students.
These decisions are made with careful consideration, with the goal of creating balanced enrolment, enhancing learning environments, and ensuring we can continue to support programs for all students over the long term.
Long Term Planning
Looking ahead, our plan is for Northern Secondary School to transition to a Kindergarten-Grade 12 school, with White Woods Public School eventually being sold to Conseil scolaire publique de Nord-Est de l’Ontario. The École secondaire publique Nipissing Ouest students will move from Northern Secondary to White Woods. While a final date has not yet been confirmed, we anticipate this transition may occur at the start of the 2027–2028 school year, but this will be confirmed at a later date.
This combined school model has been successfully implemented in other locations and has provided positive experiences for both elementary and secondary students. At Northern Secondary School, prior to moving in the Kindergarten to Grade 6 students, renovations will create clearly defined, age‑appropriate spaces, including separate entrances for elementary and secondary students and designated areas to support their daily learning needs.
We understand this news may come as a surprise to some families. Please know that we will continue to communicate as planning progresses and will share updates as more details and timelines are confirmed. We also invite you to attend an Information Night on Wednesday, June 17 from 6 to 7 p.m., to learn more and ask questions.
Our priority remains providing high-quality learning environments where all students can thrive, and we are committed to ensuring these changes support a safe, welcoming, and inclusive experience for every student.
Sincerely,
Jay MacJanet, Director of Education
Rebecca Bell, Supervisor
