The Ontario government launches innovative initiatives to accelerate school construction, slashing timelines by almost 50% amid rapid growth. In the province, schools typically take 4-7 years to build due to an outdated capital process lingering since 2010-11.

In a groundbreaking move, Ontario aims to cut school construction time by half through a swifter, transparent, and accountable process prioritizing shovel-ready projects. A revamped approach enables school boards to identify and sell surplus property, raising funds to reinvest in schools and repurpose existing structures.

Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education, emphasizes the importance of swift school development, aligning with government promises to Build Ontario, address housing shortages, and cater to the surging population. Reforms focus on streamlining processes, standardizing designs, fostering collaborations, reducing bureaucracy, and optimizing space utilization.

This comprehensive strategy, incorporated into the 2023-24 Capital Priorities Program and effective from December 31, 2023, aims to meet evolving needs, enhance efficiency, and ensure prudent taxpayer use, ushering in greater transparency and accountability for families.

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