The Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board (SWLSB) is suggesting the closure of Our Lady of Peace Elementary (OLP) in Laval and relocating students to other schools within the area for the upcoming academic year. Facing an anticipated $8.3 million deficit for the 2025-2026 school year, the board aims to optimize resource utilization, as disclosed during a public meeting at Laval Junior Academy.
Despite the proposal, Christine Baxter, a parent whose child attends OLP, expressed opposition to the school’s closure. She highlighted the personalized learning environment at OLP, emphasizing the small class sizes and individualized attention provided by the principal. Baxter criticized the decision, stating that transferring students to Souvenir Elementary, located about eight kilometers away, is an attempt to boost enrollment at Souvenir while disregarding the unique benefits of OLP.
In addition to OLP, Crestview Elementary School may also undergo changes, with approximately 40 standard program students proposed to be transferred to Souvenir. The SWLSB cites declining student enrollment in Laval schools, exacerbated by inter-board agreements allowing students to attend schools outside the SWLSB territory, impacting the board’s financial stability.
The proposed consolidation is expected to result in annual savings of over $1 million, including significant reductions in teacher salaries due to fewer classes post-consolidation. Furthermore, Phoenix Alternative High School students are facing potential relocation under the board’s plan, with the option to either move to Laval Senior Academy or integrate into mainstream high schools with additional support.
The SWLSB justifies these changes, citing the need to accommodate its adult education center, CDC Vimont, and address infrastructure issues and rising rent costs. Despite concerns raised by parents and former administrators, the SWLSB remains committed to making informed decisions that consider the needs of students and the school community. The final decision on the proposed changes is expected to be made in January following further consultation and deliberation by the Council of Commissioners.