Ottawa has four publicly funded school boards, offering English and French education in both public and Catholic systems. School placement is determined primarily by home address, with citywide access to specialized programs.
Key Ottawa School Boards
Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB): The largest English public board in Ottawa, operating numerous elementary and secondary schools across the city.
Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB): Provides Catholic education with faith-based programming throughout Ottawa.
Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario (CEPEO): French-language public school board serving Ottawa and Eastern Ontario.
Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est (CECCE): French-language Catholic board offering francophone education options.
Additional Information
Catchment Areas: Your home address determines your assigned neighbourhood school for each board.
School Choice: Ottawa allows applications to alternative schools or specialized programs outside catchment areas when space permits.
Programs: Common offerings include French immersion, gifted programs, arts-focused schools, and International Baccalaureate options.
Governance: Each board operates independently with elected trustees responsible for oversight and policy decisions.
Relocation Info
Below are links to important information that every homebuyer will find useful when relocating to Ottawa.