The Waterloo Region is preparing for the arrival of a new educational facility, Cambridge’s New Public-Catholic Elementary School, set to open in September 2026. This unique building will serve students from both the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) and the Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB).
Location and Construction
The school is currently under construction at 605 Wesley Blvd in southeastern Cambridge. Its design is intended to foster community engagement and support education for nearly 900 students.
Naming Process for the School
The WRDSB has initiated a public engagement campaign to solicit naming suggestions for its side of the building. Stakeholders can submit proposals until December 5, culminating in a selection process managed by a naming committee.
How Naming Works
- Top ten suggestions will be chosen for public voting.
- The selected names will eventually be presented to the WRDSB Board of Trustees for final approval.
The naming criteria emphasize community significance. The chosen name should reflect the principles and values that define the Southeast Cambridge area.
Community Significance
Wesley Boulevard lies within an area of historical importance, including The Simcoe Patent and Treaty 4, established in 1793. These treaties allocated significant land to the Six Nations, totaling approximately 675,000 acres and linking the school to the region’s heritage.
Pupil Distribution
The new elementary school will accommodate 519 students from the WRDSB and 354 from the WCDSB. Each board will name its portion of the building independently. The WCDSB follows a distinct faith-based naming process, requiring approval from the local bishop.
Separate Entrances and Identity
Upon completion, Cambridge’s New Public-Catholic Elementary School will feature two separate entrances, reflecting the diverse educational environments offered by both school boards. This arrangement aims to enhance accessibility and maintain the identity of each educational body.
