THUNDER BAY — The French-language high school in Thunder Bay is getting a new gymnasium.
The Conseil scolaire de district catholique des Aurores boréales has received Ministry of Education approval to proceed with renovations and add a second gym at a cost of $5.3 million.
It will primarily be dedicated to activities for the school's Grade 7 and Grade 8 students, and for elementary students from École catholique Franco-Supérieur.
The school's existing gym will continue to be used by students in Grades 9 to 12.
The project will be financed by the school board and the ministry through the Canada-Ontario funding programs for official languages.
In an announcement Tuesday, the board said students will also benefit from a new stage designed to accommodate larger-scale performances.
"The new gymnasium and versatile facilities will create a place where community members can collaborate and celebrate Francophone culture," it said.
Board chair Claudette Gleeson added that the project "will strengthen the bonds between students, families and community members, becoming a place for sharing, learning and celebration."
The CSDC des Aurores Boréales will issue a call to interested contractors soon, and expects the project to be completed by the winter of 2026.
