Elizabeth Zielger Public School not expected to open until 2027, school says

CBC

4 days ago

The closure of Elizabeth Ziegler Public School (EZPS) in Waterloo has been extended once again.
The updated reopening date of the school is now set for September 2027, according to an update posted the school's website on July 22.
Previously, messaging from the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) was that the expected reopening would be in September 2026.
On EZPS' frequently asked questions web page, it says "The report from the structural engineering firm retained by the WRDSB confirms that we will not have occupancy of EZPS for the 2025-26 school year."
The school says that the board is working with the provincial government on next steps and funding opportunities for the restoration of the school, and that "while we continue to wait for confirmation from the Ministry of Education, our goal is to reopen Elizabeth Ziegler PS on September 1, 2027."
School plagued with structural issues
The nearly 100-year-old school building was shut on March 4 when a large piece of concrete fell from the facade.
But, according to an engineering report released in June, additional issues were discovered including steel-beamed headers, floor and roof joists that are moderately to severely corroded, posing "safety concerns to any occupants inside or around the building."
The over 500 junior kindergarten to Grade 6 students and staff will be displaced. Some will stay on the school's property in portables, while others will be moved to neighbouring schools.