The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) has updated its boundary review for six elementary schools in the west-central sector, expanding sibling exemptions to ensure family unity. Under the revised proposal, all younger siblings of current students will be granted permission to attend the same school, regardless of the younger sibling's age, provided the family remains in the original school catchment area.
Background of the Boundary Review
The review affects Churchill Alternative, Hilson Avenue, Broadview Avenue, Fisher Park/Summit Alternative, Elmdale, and Woodroffe Avenue schools. The initial proposals, released on May 6, included boundary shifts and the phasing in of early French immersion at Churchill and Hilson Avenue to balance enrollment. No schools are slated for closure.
Initial Sibling Provisions
The original plan offered "legacy" exemptions for current students from senior kindergarten to Grade 8, allowing them to remain at their schools. Younger siblings could stay only if they were in junior kindergarten by September 2027; otherwise, they would need to apply for a cross-boundary transfer.
Community Feedback Leads to Changes
During a public meeting on May 6, parents expressed skepticism about the transfer process. Laura MacKenzie, a Summit Alternative parent, noted the difficulty of obtaining approval. In response, the OCDSB revised the sibling provisions on May 8, removing the age restriction and guaranteeing attendance for all younger siblings.
"Last night, we heard a clear message regarding the importance of family unity and sibling transitions," the OCDSB stated. "We understand that the stability of having children attend the same school is a top priority for our families."
Ongoing Review and Final Proposal
The board is also analyzing responses from an Engage OCDSB survey to incorporate diverse perspectives. A final proposal is expected by the end of May. The review aims to balance enrollment and introduce new programs as alternative and middle French immersion programs are phased out at some schools, ensuring long-term stability.
The controversial broader boundary changes proposed in spring 2024 were scrapped last October by provincially appointed supervisor Bob Plamondon, who deemed them "highly disruptive." The current review focuses specifically on the six west-central schools.
