June 11th, 2025

Today, we’d like to share an update on:

  • The Final Structural Assessment for the Elizabeth Ziegler PS building
  • Next steps for addressing the needs of the Elizabeth Ziegler PS building

Final Report from the Structural Engineer

We have received the final report from the structural engineer following their detailed assessment of the original Elizabeth Ziegler PS building. The report represents months of exploratory work and testing of internal structures and the external facade to ensure recommendations reflected a comprehensive understanding of the building’s status and available options for the future of the building.

Recommendations from the Structural Engineer

Based on the recommendations from the structural assessment report, the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) will proceed with restoring and repairing the original structure. We are working with the Ministry of Education to finalize the funding source and seeking approval for the restoration from the City of Waterloo, Municipal Heritage Committee and Building Services.

The structural engineer recommends:

  • The construction of a new interior steel frame to support and provide lateral resistance for the structure, supported by the installation of additional foundations
  • After the steel frame is installed, the exterior masonry walls can be repaired, reinforced and restored

Importantly:

  • The steel frame will improve building safety and resistances to seismic activity, in alignment with current building code standards
  • A new elevator will also be installed
  • Proposed new upgrades will:
    • Extended the life of the historic building
    • Improve ability for future maintenance
    • Ensure the safety of students, staff and visitors

Read the full Elizabeth Ziegler Public School Final Structural Assessment in PDF format.

Next Steps

Before work can begin, the following next steps must be completed:

  • The design report for the restoration and repair of the site needs to be presented for approval to the City of Waterloo Heritage Committee and Building Services
  • WRDSB needs to finalize the funding source with the Ministry of Education
  • Timing for the restoration of Elizabeth Ziegler is contingent on the approvals of the design through the City of Waterloo Municipal Heritage Committee and Building Services, and the procurement of contractors, in alignment with best practices for public sector organizations and Ministry of Education funding guidelines

Given the significant amount of work that needs to be completed, we can confirm that students will not return to the Elizabeth Ziegler Public School building for the duration of the 2025-26 school year, and as a result of the outstanding steps above, we are not yet able to offer a timeline for this work to be completed.

We are committed to keeping you informed as we learn more. We will provide an update to the Elizabeth Ziegler and Sandowne Public School communities on June 25, 2025.

WRDSB staff will continue to collaborate with the Ministry of Education, City of Waterloo, industry experts and the Elizabeth Ziegler and Sandowne communities as we move forward to ensure the safety, well-being and positive learning environments for students, staff and families.

To stay informed, please subscribe to the Elizabeth Ziegler Public School website.

Questions?

We’ve updated the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Closure of Elizabeth Ziegler PS.

Thank you for your patience and partnership in this important work.