MPPs Clancy and Fife pen letter to Education Minister, calling for school infrastructure investments in wake of Elizabeth Ziegler closure

April 4, 2025

KITCHENER — Aislinn Clancy, MPP for Kitchener Centre and Ontario Greens Deputy Leader, penned a letter alongside Waterloo MPP Catherine Fife, calling on the Minister of Education to review and adjust the inflexible funding formula for school infrastructure, and reimburse the WRDSB, in the wake of the Elizabeth Ziegler closure.

“The closure has highlighted broader issues with the current state of school infrastructure funding, particularly how the school renewal fund is outdated and inadequate to meet the needs of our aging schools,” MPPs Clancy and Fife wrote to Minister Calandra.

The letter highlights that 45% of the schools in Waterloo Region are currently not in good condition, according to the Financial Accountability Office.

“Investing in school infrastructure not only addresses safety concerns but also serves as a job creator and economic stabilizer, especially in these uncertain times,” the letter continues. “This influx of jobs not only supports local economies but also contributes to long-term economic growth by improving the physical and educational environment for future generations.”

“I just spoke to a parent about the stress and impact of the closure on her daughter, a student of Elizabeth Zeigler,” said Clancy. “She shares the stress caused by the disruption in her child’s schooling. It is a hardship for families, staff and students.”

“I am always eager to work across party lines and with other MPPs in our region to call on better from this government,” said Clancy. “And I appreciate MPP Fife’s collaboration on this important initiative. As we head back to Queen’s Park, I will continue to stand up for students and educators in our community and across the province.”

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