At its Regular Board Meeting on June 24, 2025, held at the Sarnia Education Centre, the Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) approved the motion to name the new Kindergarten to Grade 12 school in Forest: Blue Coast District School.
This decision follows the Board's resolution to rescind the name "Lambton Shores Community School," which was initially approved at the November 14, 2023 Board Meeting. In response to community feedback expressing concerns with the previously selected name, the Board passed a subsequent motion on November 12, 2024, recommending that LKDSB staff engage in meaningful dialogue with representatives from Kettle and Stony Point First Nation and the K-12 Naming Committee and to bring back a revised short list of school names for consideration.
Through the winter and spring of 2025, LKDSB staff collaborated with First Nation partners, students, staff, members of the Naming Committee and trustees in the spirit of reconciliation, inclusivity, and community engagement. Together, they revisited the original short-listed names and considered new submissions. A student-centered voting process was then facilitated, allowing learners across the system to engage with and reflect on the five proposed names. The results of this vote informed the committee's final recommendations to the Board.
"Our confidence in this decision reflects the voices we heard and the depth of consultation that took place throughout this process," said Board Chair Kelley Robertson. "The name Blue Coast District School emerged from all of the feedback we received and we are proud to move forward with a name that reflects both place and partnership."
The new school is designed to offer a dynamic and responsive learning environment for students in the Forest area and surrounding communities. With architectural plans finalized, the project is ready to proceed to market and is currently pending final approval from the Ontario Ministry of Education.
"This has been a thoughtful and, at times, complex process but an incredibly rewarding one," said Director of Education Gary Girardi. "We are building more than just a school. We are creating a shared space of learning, growth, and community that reflects the voices and values of those it will serve."
The Lambton Kent District School Board extends its sincere thanks to all members of the Naming Committee, representatives of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation, staff, students, and community partners for their contributions throughout the process.
As Blue Coast District School prepares to take its next steps toward realization, LKDSB remains committed to fostering inclusive, student-centered spaces that honour local identity and support lifelong learning.
