MOUNT FOREST – Following a fire in January, St. Mary Catholic School here has been closed to students and staff.
But it is set to welcome students back, beginning the second week of school.
“We will be transitioning students back into the newly renovated space through the month of September from their current sites at St. Mary Catholic Church and First Baptist Church,” director of education Michael Glazier stated in an email.
St. Mary principal Kelly Smith told the Advertiser she is excited to slowly move students back into the school.
Students will begin the year in their assigned temporary locations – either St. Mary Catholic or First Baptist Church.
Kindergarten students are set to return to the school as early as Sept. 9, with students in Grades 1 through 3 following suit the next day.
Grade 4 through 8 students “will be returning later in the month with the timelines to be communicated to parents once they are confirmed.”
The Wellington Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) sent details to St. Mary’s families on Aug. 20.
Glazier said further information was set to be posted on the school’s website and he noted that Smith and teachers “will be communicating directly with families over the next few weeks to share next steps as they prepare for the start of the school year on Sept. 4.
“We are looking forward to having a great year ahead,” Smith said, noting there will be “a few enhancements coming to the school we are looking forward to sharing with students and staff.”
She didn’t want to say too much and spoil the surprise for St. Mary students, but noted “everything is going to be new and fresh” after a full renovation at the school.
There will be new murals painted on walls and new technology, including smart TVs and soundfield systems in classrooms, she said.
WCDSB officials thanked “the contractor, tradespeople, and our facilities staff for their tremendous efforts to complete this project.”
Smith also expressed appreciation for the resilience of students, parents and staff, and for support from the Mount Forest community.
“We also thank First Baptist Church and St. Mary of the Purification Catholic Church for their generosity in providing temporary accommodations since February and to the many community businesses, service groups, and families that offered their support,” Glazier stated
