Planning Principles

The following LTAP Planning Principles have been developed to guide the development of the plan and subsequent accommodation decision making. These principles outline the priorities for the Board guiding
decision making with respect to Accommodation Solutions.

  1. Ensure viable school organizations and programs;
    1. Schools should be of sufficient size to offer a range of educational opportunities and resources and be sensitive to the geographical area they serve.
    2. In all situations involving pupil accommodation planning, attention will be given to improving
      program excellence, enhancing program opportunities, and addressing school renewal requirements;
    3. Locations chosen for any program initiative should be selected based on the suitability of the physical space.
  2. Minimize the use of portable accommodation (both number and duration);
    1. The preferred models of school accommodation are:
      1. Self-contained (within building capacity – no portables or port a paks).
      2. Program initiatives will be designed and implemented in accordance with 2 (i)(a).
      3. Programs in 1(iii) will be: capped, single tracked or additional programs initiated.
      4. Any transitional provisions for new programs should support the Boards vision and be fiscally responsible.
      5. Port a paks will only be considered when supported by a funding source and pak criteria are met.
    2. Closure, consolidation and conversion of use opportunities may be used to achieve principle 1;
  3. The preferred models of school organization are JK-8 elementary,1-8 French Immersion elementary (single or dual track), 7-12 or 9-12 secondary.
  4. In all situations involving pupil accommodation planning, attention will be given to support for and compliance with all legislated requirements and priorities, such as those of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, Daily Physical Activity, and Community Use, as may be instituted and identified from time to time.
  5. Other considerations:
    1. Child Care Centres
      1. Encourage and provide support for B&A programs in accordance with Provincial legislation.
      2. Develop standards for size and configuration
      3. Incorporate flexible space or kindergarten design to allow for shared use and storage
    2. Facility Partnerships
        1. Actively market our schools as a community resource with the Region, Local Municipality and not for profit agencies.

      Examples include:

        1. Joint Use Facilities
        2. Joint Builds
        3. York Region Community Services (public health, child care, housing, etc.)
        4. Welcome Centres
        5. AOK, Early Learning Centres, etc.