Elizabeth Ziegler Public School to remain closed until the end of the month

Part of the exterior of Elizabeth Ziegler Public School in Waterloo appeared to be missing on March 4, 2025. (Dave Pettit/CTV News)

Elizabeth Ziegler Public School will remain closed for at least another two weeks.

The Waterloo Region District School Board shared an update Tuesday that said the closure has now been extended until Friday, March 28.

The elementary school shut down on March 3 over concerns about the safety of the building’s façade. A large chunk of concrete was missing from one of the windows, and workers were called in to inspect the rest of the building’s exterior.

In Tuesday’s message, the school board said structural testing is being conducted to determine what needs to happen next.

“The decision to temporarily close Elizabeth Ziegler Public School has been made based on direction from professional staff and structural engineers to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff,” the statement read. “School closures are disruptive for students and families, and we appreciate everyone’s understanding during this difficult time. Staff and contractors continue to work tirelessly in an effort to open the school as quickly as possible.”

Aging school

Elizabeth Ziegler Public School was built in 1931 and was the third elementary school ever constructed in Waterloo. The building was designed in the Gothic Revival style with a stone entrance, stone turrets and copper-topped domes. It was designated a heritage landmark in 1985.

According to a May 2024 report from the Financial Accountability Office, 55 schools with the Waterloo Region District School Board are below a state of good repair. There has been no confirmation whether Elizabeth Ziegler Public School is on that list.

What students need to know

Students at Elizabeth Ziegler Public School were originally set to return for in-person learning on March 17.

The board has now asked families and caregivers to stop by the school to pick up a Chromebook or iPad. They said they will be on temporary loan throughout the extended school closure.

The date for device pickup will be shared with parents by Friday, March 14.

The board said teachers will conduct their lessons synchronously and be available during regular school hours through Google Classrooms, over the next two weeks.