School attendance areas or boundaries are necessary to create school communities that are appropriately sized for the capacity of each school facility. York Region schools comprise a variety of ages and sizes and offer a variety of programs. School boundaries are selected to accommodate the school’s long-term projected enrolment. Portable accommodation is used during a community’s peak enrolment period or to accommodate students awaiting new schools or additions.

Why do boundaries change?

Changes to school boundaries may be required for reasons that include:

• opening of new schools
• enrolment growth/decline
• closure of schools
• demographic shifts in the community
• additions to existing schools
• program changes

Board Policy #108 details the circumstances and the process under which boundaries may be changed. The Board’s Boundary Review Process ensures that attendance areas are reviewed annually.

How are boundaries changed?

The Boundary Review Process begins each year in September with the identification of areas that require reviewing by the Superintendents of Schools. Trustees, Principals, Planning and Transportation staff then determine the extent of the changes that are required and create options for review. These options are taken to the Program Planning Committee of the Board for information and comment in October. After a public consultation period is completed, the Superintendent of Schools takes proposed secondary school boundary changes to the January Board meeting for trustee approval. Proposed elementary school boundary changes are recommended for Board approval in March.

How is the community involved?

The Board recognizes the importance of a thorough Public Consultation process. This is accomplished through committees, presentations and open houses at local schools. School Councils are an important link in the process and are consulted prior to final boundary change decisions. Community members can participate in a variety of ways including attending meetings, reading newsletters, completing feedback forms and speaking with Board staff. The consultation period usually takes place between October and December. Longer consultation periods may occur as recommended by the Superintendent of Schools.

Public Information Sessions are advertised through local newspapers, school newsletters, School Councils and the Board website. Delegations may also be made to the Board of Trustees regarding proposed boundary changes by contacting the Director’s office prior to the Board meeting.

Prior to the implementation of new boundaries, the Superintendent of Schools develops a communication plan to ensure that all those who are affected receive information about the changes.

Secondary Schools