SIMCOE MUSKOKA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
Province Invests Over $2 Million for Accessibility

The Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board (SMCDSB) has secured more than $2 million from the Province of Ontario to advance priority accessibility upgrades across the system. The Ministry of Education approved the funding to help the Board remove barriers for students, staff, and visitors who rely on safe, accessible school environments.

"We welcome this investment," said Allen Morrison, Controller of Planning, Facilities & Student Transportation Services. "These upgrades will open doors, literally and figuratively, for members of our community who face mobility or safety challenges."

The Ministry has asked Boards to move quickly and demonstrate immediate need. SMCDSB has already directed a significant portion of the funds to complete work and projects underway through existing purchase orders. 

Looking ahead, the Board has identified several major projects for summer 2026, based on the findings of a system-wide accessibility audit. These future projects depend on continued provincial support and include:

• Accessibility renovations at St. Theresa's Catholic High School (Midland) - Advancing previously prioritized upgrades to improve barrier-free access.

• Fire alarm system enhancements - at older schools to modernize systems with visual alarm indicators

• Accessibility improvements at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School (Tottenham) - A new ramp from the parking lot to the track and field area, along with the addition of a universal washroom.

• Accessibility improvements at  Holy Trinity Catholic Secondary School (Bradford) - improved pathways, new interior and exterior power door operators and the addition of a universal washroom.

• Exterior walkway upgrades - Improved pathways that offer safer and more accessible routes around school properties.

SMCDSB will continue working with the Ministry of Education as these projects progress and as the Board advocates for sustained, long-term funding to meet accessibility goals.