Work has begun on the new joint-use elementary school on Wesley Boulevard in Cambridge.
The school will be the first in the region to welcome students from the Waterloo Region District School Board and Waterloo Catholic District School Board under one roof.
An official groundbreaking ceremony is being planned for the spring.
"It’s our hope that through our combined use of space that we can maximize the impact of our resources and better serve the Cambridge community," Chris Sagar, superintendent of facility services at the WRDSB, said in an email.
"We're excited to share that work on this site is already underway, as contractors and staff from both school boards work together to help take this site from plans to reality. We can’t wait to welcome future learners to this new school."
The building will span 9,100 square metres and have 45 classrooms. The WRDSB's portion is creating 519 new elementary school spaces.
An additional 88 child care spots operated by the YWCA Cambridge is also part of the plans.
Next steps for the public board includes conducting a boundary study to determine which students will be eligible to attend the school and settling on a name in accordance with its procedure for Naming and Renaming Board Facilities.
Of the total number of new spaces, the Catholic board is providing 354.
"We're committed to working alongside our partners to make this vision a reality for the growing Cambridge community," Lema Salaymeh, senior manager of communications for WCDSB, said.
"Shared spaces like the gymnasium and library will enhance opportunities for collaboration, while thoughtfully designed outdoor play areas and natural spaces will support learning, wellness and community engagement. It reflects a shared commitment to building spaces where all students can thrive."
More details on the groundbreaking ceremony will be made available in the coming months.
The school is scheduled to open in the fall of 2026.