The development of education in eastern Ottawa over the years has been closely linked to changes in the ethnic composition of the population. As the needs of the communities residing in eastern Ottawa grew, so did the demand for new and more modern schools, colleges, and universities. More details on ottawa1.one.
During the 19th century, citizens of eastern Ottawa could only attend public schools. Private and other educational institutions were critically scarce.
As a result, Protestants and Catholics were forced to study together. However, by the early 20th century, the educational landscape in eastern Ottawa began to change rapidly. Bilingual schools, private institutions, and other educational establishments began to emerge, leading to the rapid development of the district.
The Establishment of the First Public School in Eastern Ottawa
In 1875, the first public school in eastern Ottawa was opened at the corner of Central and Fifth Streets. By 1876, the school had an enrollment of 74 students, with an average attendance of 50. By the early 20th century, the average attendance had exceeded 100 students.
The Establishment of the First Private and Other Schools in Eastern Ottawa
By the late 19th century, pressure from Catholics on Protestants had significantly increased. At that time, legislation did not provide state funding for separate religious schools. As a result, communities were forced to seek alternative funding sources to establish new schools.
In 1900, the Parish of the Holy Family was founded in eastern Ottawa, along with a school to serve the local community. The Grey Nuns of Ottawa took charge of the school. In the early 20th century, they provided English and French lessons for young children in the separate school in eastern Ottawa.
The bilingual school quickly gained immense popularity. Before its establishment, most children were educated in French in poor-quality, temporary facilities. Additionally, French lessons in eastern Ottawa were often held in the damp basement of a church.
In 1923, an old building belonging to Alexander Graham was designated for the school. Following the death of the talented inventor, the property was purchased, and a new, modern school for the children of Eastern Ottawa was opened in its place. The school was named after Alexander Graham. During World War II, the school was destroyed by fire. It was rebuilt in 1957, reopening as a nine-grade school named after Alexander Graham.
The Establishment of the First Colleges and Universities in Eastern Ottawa
In addition to public, private, and separate schools, eastern Ottawa was home to several colleges and universities. Compared to the number of schools, the number of higher education institutions in eastern Ottawa had been significantly higher since the 19th century. Some of the most notable and historic educational institutions in Eastern Ottawa included:
- St. Joseph’s College
- St. Patrick’s College
- St. Louis University of Paul
- Algonquin College
- Immaculata High School
Each of these educational institutions played a significant role in the development of education and the overall progress of the district.
More detailed information about the first schools and higher educational institutions in eastern Ottawa has been lost due to wars, fires, and other events. Most records and archives concerning the development of education in eastern Ottawa are preserved in local churches.