April 1st, 2025

Thank you for your ongoing partnership, support and the feedback you have provided as we work together to welcome and support Elizabeth Ziegler students, families, and staff to our school.

In this message, we will share: 

  • An update that impacts Sandowne PS for the 2025-26 school year

Background

The interim report from the structural engineering firm retained by the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) confirms that we will not have occupancy of Elizabeth Ziegler Public School for the 2025-26 school year. 

At this time we have not yet received a final report and this is because of the decision to engage in further consultation between the current engineering firm, an architect and an additional consulting engineer. As a result we will not receive a final report for 4 to 6 weeks. Upon receiving the final report we will then share the findings. 

With this knowledge, staff have been hard at work looking at the available options for the 2025-2026 school year. While exploring options, the key priorities shared from Elizabeth Ziegler staff and families guided our decision-making, these included:  

  • Keeping the Elizabeth Ziegler school community together
  • Minimizing disruption to staff, students, and families
  • Ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of students and staff
  • Providing clarity and certainty for staff, students, and families

Options were also determined by the capacity of available sites and program requirements. 

The Proposed Accommodation Plan for the 2025-26 School Year

After reviewing a range of scenarios for Elizabeth Ziegler PS students and staff for the 2025-26 school year, WRDSB staff have determined the best possible plan that aligns with the above priorities.

The proposed accommodation plan outlined in this update has been provided to the Waterloo Region District School Board Trustees and a final confirmation of the plan will be made in the near future as per Board Policy 4000. 

Moving to Sandowne Public School

For the 2025-26 school year, current Elizabeth Ziegler Public School students will attend Sandowne Public School. This includes: 

  • Full Day Kindergarten 
  • Grade 1 to Grade 6 Regular track (core French) 
  • Grade 2 to Grade 6 French immersion

This decision allows Elizabeth Ziegler students the opportunity to remain together at one school.  

To help accommodate the additional Elizabeth Ziegler PS students and staff, 12 portables will be located at Sandowne PS. 

Throughout this process, we will continue to support every student who learns and grows as part of the growing Sandowne Public School community. 

Questions? 

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to your school administrator. We appreciate your patience, understanding, and collaboration as we move forward together.  

You may also view the  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Closure of Elizabeth Ziegler PS.