The Durham District School Board (DDSB) has announced the names of four new schools scheduled to welcome students for the 2026-2027 school year this fall.
Construction remains on track, and school administrators look forward to welcoming families to these state-of-the-art learning environments in the coming weeks, said the announcement.
Following extensive community consultations and board trustee recommendations this past spring, the Ontario Ministry of Education officially finalized and approved the school names on July 6, the DDSB said.
It said the naming process engaged thousands of local students, families, staff, and community members who submitted and reviewed suggestions to ensure each school reflects the unique identity, history, and aspirations of its community and neighborhood.
“We are incredibly grateful to the school naming committees, our trustees, and the broader community for their thoughtful collaboration,” said Andrea McAuley, Superintendent of Education, Leadership and Innovative Learning. “These names represent more than just brick and mortar—they reflect the geography, culture, and rich diversity of Durham Region. Together, we are laying a strong foundation for the future of our students.”
Cedar Valley Secondary School will have a student capacity of 1,387. Each new elementary school will have a student capacity of 634, DDSB said.
The Meaning Behind the Names
- Cedar Valley Secondary School (Oshawa): Named in connection to the nearby local conservation area. The name honors the region’s natural landscape and the white cedar plant, which holds deep significance as a symbol of strength and healing.
- Whitby Meadows Public School (Whitby): A place-based name referencing the vibrant, rapidly growing residential development area that the school will serve.
- Waaban Public School (Oshawa): Translated from the Anishinaabemowin language, “Waaban” means dawn or the east, symbolizing new beginnings, hope, and the bright future of its students.
- Heartwood Public School (Whitby): A nature-focused name referencing the “heartwood” or the strong, resilient inner core of a tree—representing the supportive and foundational environment the school aims to cultivate.
The DDSB is responsible for public education in the rural communities of Uxbridge, Brock and Scugog townships and the cities and towns of Ajax, Whitby, Pickering and Oshawa. It employs over 12,000 teaching and educational services staff in 144 elementary and secondary schools and learning centres. DDSB has more than 80,000 regular day students and thousands more who take continuing education and adult credit courses.
For registration information and boundary maps, visit the DDSB.ca.
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