The Government of Yukon has released the What We Heard report summarizing input on planning for a potential new public school in downtown Whitehorse.
Yukoners were invited to share their thoughts on where a new downtown school could be built, what supports for student learning should be included and how to create a safe and accessible school environment.
Over 560 Yukoners completed the online survey between May 14 and June 15, 2025, and additional feedback came from in-person sessions and meetings with community partners and Yukon First Nations.
Key findings show that:
- over 80 per cent of respondents support building a new public school downtown;
- the Kèjän and Rogers site (formerly 5th and Rogers) was the preferred location for most respondents, followed by the current École Whitehorse Elementary School site;
- traffic flow, safety, accessibility and access to green spaces were top priorities for many participants; and
- many respondents want the new school to include outdoor learning spaces, community spaces like gyms and early learning and child care services.
The Government of Yukon thanks everyone who took the time to share their ideas. Community input will help shape decisions about the location, design and programs offered at a potential new school.
The What We Heard report can be viewed at Yukon.ca.
"We are grateful to everyone who took the time to share their thoughts on a new school in downtown Whitehorse. Your ideas and insights show just how much you care about creating welcoming, safe and vibrant schools that meet the needs of our growing families. We look forward to continuing this important work together with residents, partners and Yukon First Nations as the project moves forward."
Minister of Education Jeanie McLean
Quick facts
- This initiative is in the initial planning stages, which involves looking at potential site and programming options. The Government of Yukon will provide more information on timelines as the process advances.
- From May 14 to June 15, 2025, the Government of Yukon invited Yukoners to share their input about the location and need for a new school in downtown Whitehorse.
- There was a total of 564 online survey responses: 95.9 per cent of responders choose to respond in English and 4.1 per cent in French. Two in-person public sessions were held in downtown Whitehorse.
- The engagement process was promoted through several channels including:
- a news release;
- advertising on local radio, social media and in print publications;
- presentations, targeted letters and emails to education partners and Whitehorse-area community associations and First Nations;
- emails to parents and guardians;
- an e-newsletter to school administrator and staff; and
- posters, mailout to downtown addresses and word-of-mouth.
Related information:
