On Tuesday, December 10, 2024, the Langley Board of Education announced the name of the new elementary school in the Northeast Latimer area of Langley. The new school will be named Josette Dandurand Elementary, named for the late Josette Dandurand who was a well-respected, Kwantlen First Nation elder, and cultural presenter in the Langley School District. In 2015, Josette travelled to Ottawa to provide testimony of her experiences as a child in residential schools as part of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC).
Above, an artist's rendering of what Josette Dandurand Elementary will look like upon completion
"Josette was an advocate for social justice and Indigenous rights, and a dedicated leader in the journey of Truth and Reconciliation," said Candy Ashdown, Chair of the Board of Education.
"We are grateful for her contribution over the years, as she has educated students and staff in classrooms all over the district using the power of story."
"Josette always believed it was important for every child to receive quality education," said Mike Pue, District Principal, Aboriginal Education.
"Her impact on the community is far-reaching and extends beyond our schools. Many of our staff, including myself, believed that she was an inspiring role model, caring matriarch, and community connector, who brought Indigenous and non-Indigenous people together," explained Mike Pue.
"Through her words and actions, Josette has demonstrated the District's core values of Integrity, Excellence, Courage, and Community and has left a positive legacy," said Mal Gill, Superintendent of Schools.
"We are inspired to continue the District's commitment in the journey of Truth and Reconciliation and fulfill goals that ensure every child matters," he added.
Josette Dandurand, whose ancestral name was "Tsakwiah" which means "she who always remembers" was born and raised in Vancouver, BC. Josette was the youngest of six siblings of George and Mabel Fillardeau. She lived most of her early and latter years on Kwantlen First Nation reserve. Josette Dandurand passed away in November 2023.
This is the second time the Langley Board of Education has named a school after a member of the Kwantlen First Nation. In 2020, the Board of Education named a new elementary school in the Southwest Yorkson area after retired long-time District teacher Donna Gabriel Robins. Please join the Langley Board of Education and District in celebrating this exciting moment in the Langley community.
