ABC Montessori in Mississauga forced to close before fall
Over 150 families scrambling after the private school announced it cannot reopen in September due to city zoning enforcement.
More than 150 families are left without a school after ABC Montessori in Mississauga announced it will not reopen in September, forced to close by the city's zoning enforcement action.
The school had operated without formal zoning approval since 2016, operating under successive variances from the Ontario Land Tribunal (formerly the Ontario Municipal Board). Schools are prohibited in the area due to overhead flight paths to Pearson Airport, but ABC had been approved to operate in five-year increments. When the city enforced a 2011 tribunal ruling that would deny further extensions, the school faced an impossible choice: spend substantial legal fees to appeal or close.
School co-owner Raj Vekaria said relocating wasn't viable. "I can't move too far away from here, otherwise I lose the community," he said. "In this particular area, there are no buildings with the right zoning." Applying for another variance would require extensive legal costs with little chance of success—money he said the school would rather spend improving facilities.
Counsilor Natalie Hart acknowledged the frustration, especially with September planning underway, and said her office is asking staff to provide clear information on available planning options. Local MPP Deepak Anand told the school he will urge the city and mayor to work toward a compliance pathway. The closure leaves parents scrambling months after most enrollment periods have closed elsewhere.