On September 28, 2004 Trustees authorized the administration to negotiate a contract with C. N. Watson and Associates of Mississauga to undertake a Long Term System Accommodation Study of the Thames Valley District School Board.

The study is designed to:

• Assess the impact that demographic trends will have on future accommodation needs.
• Recommend program and facility structures that would enhance the educational and economic strengths of the local communities.
• Demonstrate, under the Ministry’s Accountability Framework, "efficient and effective" use of the Board’s capital resources.
• Include in any cost analysis the impact on total board costs/savings of all factors such as, but not limited to, transportation, facility maintenance, facility operations (heat and utilities) and staffing.

The Final Report was delivered to Trustees at a special Board meeting on Tuesday, November 29, 2005. It identifies several important issues that Thames Valley faces as a result of the amalgamation process and the reality of declining enrolment across the system. It also outlines comprehensive recommendations to consolidate empty space where appropriate, and build new schools in growth areas over the next 15 years. Its key findings will be considered as Thames Valley moves ahead with its long term capital planning.

"The C.N. Watson report is an invaluable blueprint for Trustees as we work through the capital plan for the Ministry of Education."

"Thames Valley's first priority is to meet student needs in the best and most practical way. The findings and recommendations of the C.N. Watson report will provide us with an extensive database as we move forward with our long-term planning."

March 30, 2007

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