The new school features modern classrooms, a large gymnasium, playground, a sports field, ample green space, and collaborative learning spaces. (RCCDSB photo)
The new, improved St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic School, an extension of St. Joseph’s High School, welcomed students to the state-of-the-art facility Wednesday (Jan. 8).
Renfrew County Catholic District School Board (RCCDSB) officials say they were pleased to mark the official opening of the school.
“The Ministry of Education approved the project in 2022, which involved the reconstruction and demolition of St. Thomas the Apostle and the extension of St. Joseph’s High School,” reads an RCCDSB press release. “Following a two-year construction period, the building has welcomed its first students.”
While other aspects of the project are complete, the old St. Thomas the Apostle building still awaits demolition.
“I am grateful to parents and families for their patience and cooperation during this process. This week, we opened the doors wide with smiles and enthusiasm beaming from all. We look forward to what the future has in store for St. Thomas the Apostle,” said school principal Tony Jacyno.
The new school features modern classrooms, a large gymnasium, playground, a sports field, ample green space, and collaborative learning spaces.
Officials say the building is designed to foster a welcoming and inclusive learning environment for elementary students.
Part of the upper floor of the new building serves as an extension to St. Joseph’s High School, which features additional classrooms for the high school students, as well as a brand-new special education room. The construction also included an expansion of St. Joseph’s cafeteria and the addition of a new learning commons for students.
“We are pleased to welcome students to the new school building,” said Mark Searson, director of education. “This new school represents a significant investment in the future of Catholic education in Renfrew. We are confident that St. Thomas the Apostle will provide students with the tools and resources they need to grow academically and spiritually. We are also thrilled about the extension to St. Joseph’s High School, which will provide more learning spaces for students to thrive.”
Officials say they appreciate the community’s support and patience during the construction process as they proudly open the doors of this new school and acknowledge the collective effort of all those who helped achieve this milestone.
(Sherry Haaima)