The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) is currently reviewing six schools in Ottawa’s west-central area, which may result in boundary changes, new programs, and adjustments to grade structures. The schools involved are Broadview Public School, Churchill Alternative School, Elmdale Public School, Fisher Park/Summit Alternative Public School, Hilson Avenue Public School, and Woodroffe Avenue Public School. Amanda Case, co-chair of the Churchill Parent Council, highlighted the disparities in enrollment, noting that while some schools are over capacity, others like Churchill are struggling to fill classrooms due to the phasing out of its alternative program.

Parents are advocating for a review that would balance enrollment and introduce new programming where needed. They are particularly focused on redrawing boundaries to alleviate overcrowding in schools like Elmdale and Broadview while also introducing French immersion at Hilson Avenue. However, the ongoing changes, including the elimination of certain programs, have raised concerns about the viability of schools like Churchill and Hilson.

Parents have expressed frustration over the lack of transparency from the OCDSB, with some stating that information has been sparse and unclear. NDP MPP Chandra Pasma has echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for more details to ensure community engagement in the decision-making process. The OCDSB is expected to release a proposal on May 6, coinciding with a public consultation meeting, with a final decision anticipated in June.