Future of Burlington high schools up for debate

The Halton District School Board has scheduled two public meetings to discuss the up-to-date findings of the program and accommodation review for Burlington high schools.

The public board is considering a recommendation that supports, among other actions, to close Central and Lester B. Pearson high schools due to low enrolment projections.

The meeting concerning north Burlington schools is Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. at Dr. Frank J. Hayden Secondary School, 3040 Tim Dobbie Dr.

For south Burlington schools, the meeting is March 7 at 7 p.m. at the New Street Education Centre, 3250 New St. This date has changed from a previously scheduled one.

Lester B. Pearson High School is on Headon Road while Burlington Central is on Baldwin Street in the downtown.

The same information will be presented at both meetings, says the board. The purpose of the meetings is to share the work of the review committee to date and explain the process for gathering further community input. The committee also has working meetings where the public can attend but only observe on Feb. 2, Feb. 9 and March 23.

The review was initiated as a result of low and high enrolment pressures in Burlington secondary schools, as outlined in the director’s preliminary report.

The committee is reviewing and providing feedback on the preliminary report. The board says more options for action will likely come forward, which may involve the closure of other schools than those currently recommended.

For those unable to attend one of the public meetings, the presentation and related information will be posted on the board’s website following the meeting.