The Trillium Lakelands District School Board (TLDSB) has received approval from the Ministry of Education to build a 3,000 square-foot Outdoor Education and Indigenous Centre in Minden.
According to school board officials, the new centre, set on 90 acres, directly aligns with the board’s 2022–2027 strategic plan.
“By utilizing the area’s natural environment as an enriching learning space, TLDSB is looking forward to providing a new location for learning opportunities and will be seeking support from local Indigenous Knowledge Keepers and Elders,” stated TLDSB director of education, Wes Hahn.
According to officials, the project is designed to integrate academic curriculum and student well-being with land-based Indigenous learning. It will feature a day program offering hands-on, curriculum-linked experiences for students.
Some of the program’s goals include providing meaningful access to local green spaces, promoting environmental stewardship, and supporting equitable opportunities and inclusion for all students.
“This new centre will give students the opportunity to connect with nature, learn beyond the classroom, and develop exciting hands-on skills that will benefit them for years to come,” said Laurie Scott, Member of Provincial Parliament of Ontario representing Haliburton–Kawartha Lakes–Brock. “This new centre is a strong investment into the future of Minden and those who call it home.”
Officials said the facility is slated to open in spring 2027.
