Trees will be cut down at Sandowne Public School to make room for Elizabeth Ziegler students

CTV News

26-06-2025

The exterior of Sandowne Public School was photographed in Waterloo, Ont. on April 10, 2025.
Several mature trees will soon be cut down as the Waterloo Region District School Board prepares for an influx of students at Sandowne Public School in Waterloo.
Some students from Elizabeth Ziegler Public School will be moving to Sandowne for the next academic year due to structural issues at Elizabeth Ziegler.
To make room for the growing student body, and the increased traffic that will come with the change, the school board confirmed they will be removing several trees on Sandowne's property.
'For every tree removed, the WRDSB will plant a minimum of two native replacement trees. These species will be selected based on their ability to thrive in our region and provide shade relatively quickly after planting,' the school board said in an email to CTV News Kitchener on Thursday.
Some families have also raised concerns with the future of Sandowne's current outdoor learning space.
'While this space will be impacted by the changes, it is in need of renewal. Once the portables are installed and replacement trees are in place, our Facilities Services staff will collaborate with school staff and the community to recreate and enhance the outdoor learning area for students,' the email said.