The Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) held a groundbreaking ceremony on October 9, 2025, for the Blue Coast District School in Forest, a new Kindergarten to Grade 12 facility set to consolidate four existing schools and serve over 1,100 students. The project, which began with a community-wide Pupil Accommodation Review in 2018, marks a […]
The Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) held a groundbreaking ceremony on October 9, 2025, for the Blue Coast District School in Forest, a new Kindergarten to Grade 12 facility set to consolidate four existing schools and serve over 1,100 students.
The project, which began with a community-wide Pupil Accommodation Review in 2018, marks a significant step in uniting Aberarder Central School, Bosanquet Central Public School, Kinnwood Central Public School, and North Lambton Secondary School. The new facility is intended to support the communities of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation, Lambton Shores, and Plympton-Wyoming.
LKDSB Director of Education Gary Girardi highlighted the project’s broader significance. “This is more than a construction project,” he stated. “It’s a commitment to a future shaped by learning, belonging, and hope. This school reflects the aspirations of our students, families, and communities – and the power of collaboration to turn vision into reality”.
The $74-million facility, fully funded by the province, is designed with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and community connection. Plans include state-of-the-art learning environments, childcare spaces, EarlyON rooms, and opportunities for students to pursue Specialist High Skills Majors (SHSM) in fields like STEM and agriculture.
Girardi emphasized the continuum of learning the school will offer: “We’re building a school that supports students across the entire continuum – from their first day of kindergarten to their final walk across the graduation stage”. He added that it will be “a place where relationships will flourish, transitions will be supported, and every student will be known, seen, and valued”.
The chosen location near The Shores Recreation Centre was selected in consultation with municipal partners for its accessibility and safety, offering proximity to a rink and gym.
Local and provincial leaders, including Lambton Shores Mayor Doug Cook and Lambton Kent Middlesex MPP Steve Pinsonneault, attended the ceremony. Education Minister Paul Calandra's remarks underscored the school's role in modernizing education in rural communities and creating a central hub.
LKDSB has also stressed its commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous partners, with Girardi noting, “This school represents a step forward in our ongoing journey – one rooted in respect, partnership, and shared purpose”.
The Blue Coast District School is expected to be completed within two years of construction start.
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