District School Board of Niagara’s (DSBN) Thorold Secondary School is preparing to mark an incredible milestone – 150 years of learning, growth and community spirit – with a celebration on Saturday, May 10th that honours its legacy and looks ahead to an exciting future.
“We are thrilled to invite the public to celebrate this historic occasion with us,” said Janice Sargeant, Principal of Thorold Secondary School. “This event is about honouring the generations who have shaped our school’s identity while sharing our vision for the future, one filled with opportunity for every student who walks through our doors.”
150th Anniversary Event Details
Date: Saturday, May 10th
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Thorold Secondary School, 50 Ormond Street North
In keeping with the theme, “Honouring our past. Celebrating our future” the open-house style event will recognize the school’s proud legacy while highlighting the exciting transformation underway. Thorold Secondary is currently undergoing significant multi-system renewal work to modernize and expand its offerings, designed to meet the needs of a growing community and prepare students for success in the decades to come.
Upgrades include a redesigned, accessible front entrance and refreshed entryways to create a more welcoming and inclusive space. The school will also feature new Special Education classrooms as well as revitalized learning spaces dedicated to Robotics, Design Technology and Communication Technology, complete with a new computer lab for filming and editing. In addition, important infrastructure updates such as HVAC, window and electrical replacements will be completed.
One of the most exciting developments is the launch of a full-scale Hospitality & Tourism program. This includes brand new culinary and baking spaces as well as a beautiful, student-run cafeteria. This initiative will equip students with hands-on experience in culinary arts, entrepreneurship and hospitality – fields that offer strong post-secondary and career pathways for students.
These exciting upgrades are part of broader, multi-system construction projects currently underway at both Thorold Secondary School and Eastdale Secondary School in Welland. Already approved as part of DSBN’s multi-year capital plan, these renovations create the opportunity to integrate new program spaces within the existing scope of work.
“We are investing in Thorold Secondary not just to renew infrastructure, but to reimagine what is possible for students,” said Stacy Veld, Associate Director of Education, Corporate Services & Treasurer. “As the only high school in the area, it is essential that the school offers something for everyone. With the addition of a culinary program, we are pleased to expand an already strong lineup that includes academics, the arts, technology, skilled trades and athletics.”
The Hospitality & Tourism program will enhance learning opportunities for all students, offering those working toward a diploma the chance to fulfill the Ministry of Education’s mandatory requirements for Grade 9 and 10 technology credits. Students will also benefit from experiential opportunities including catering for events and the ability to apply for a Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program, Skills Ontario competitions, and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP).
Both Thorold and Eastdale Secondary Schools will be ready to welcome students into the expanded programming in time for the 2025–26 school year.