Project will create 317 student spaces and 49 licensed child care spaces
June 17, 2026
AJAX – Students, community members and dignitaries gathered today for a ceremonial groundbreaking marking the start of construction on the future Ajax-Whitby elementary school of Conseil scolaire Viamonde.
The ceremony represents an important milestone in a project long anticipated by Francophone families in the Durham Region. The future Ajax-Whitby elementary school will provide students with a modern, welcoming, fully French-language learning environment while addressing the growing needs of the community.
Joined by representatives of Conseil scolaire Viamonde, Whitby MPP Lorne Coe, as well as community partners and supporters, students enthusiastically participated in the event, which officially marked the beginning of construction.
“Our government is making investments that help ensure students have access to modern learning environments where they can thrive. The start of construction on this new school is an important milestone for Francophone families in Ajax, Whitby and across Durham Region, and I look forward to seeing students benefit from this new space for generations to come.”
For regional school trustee Kristine Dandavino, “this groundbreaking demonstrates the vitality of the Francophone community in Durham Region and the confidence families place in French-language public education. We look forward to seeing this school take shape and welcoming its first generations of students.”
Similarly, Director of Education Sébastien Fontaine proudly welcomed the start of construction: “A few months ago, we announced this project with great enthusiasm, and today we are pleased to break ground on a modern learning environment designed to support student success here in Ajax.”
Over the coming months, the school, designed by Windsor-based architectural firm J.P. Thomson Architects, will be built by the dedicated team at Verly Construction Group of Mississauga. Construction will continue in preparation for the school’s planned opening in September 2027. Once completed, the new Ajax-Whitby elementary school will accommodate 317 elementary students and provide 49 licensed child care spaces for community families.
Conseil scolaire Viamonde thanks Ontario’s Ministry of Education, families, community partners and everyone who has contributed to advancing this project to this important stage.
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MEDIA CONTACTS
Eric Hutchins
Office Manager
Lorne Coe
MPP Whitby
Lorne.coeco@pc.ola.org
905-430-1141