We're pleased to share that the public consultation process to name our new elementary school in South Langford (Latoria area) slated to open in fall of 2025 is now open. To learn more about the project, please see our latest news release.
The first step will be an online Thought Exchange open from January 17 to January 31, 2023. Thought Exchange is an online engagement platform designed to let us respectfully share thoughts with each other and rate in real time. You will be able to log back into the Thought Exchange throughout and rate the other names suggested by participants. Thought Exchange is completely anonymous. The second step will be an open house at Happy Valley Elementary on February 15 with the Board of Education. Our Na'tsa'maht Indigenous Education Department will be working with our local Indigenous Nations to ensure their voices are part of this process.
The new school will be named in reference to geographical characteristics or historical names {indigenous significance will be considered}. If a school is to be named in honour of a person, consent of the individual will be obtained. In cases where a school is to be named after a deceased person, except one who was renowned, agreement from a close surviving relative will be sought. The final decision of the school name rests with the Board of Education.
Keep the above criteria in mind while you consider names to suggest (names like Schooley McSchool Face will not be considered by the Board of Education).
How to participate:
- Join the Thought Exchange
- Visit the Thought Exchange as many times as you would like until January 31, 2023 to rate the other suggestions.
- Stop by our Open House at Happy Valley Elementary anytime from 6:30 - 8:00 PM on February 15, 2023 to see the most popular 10 names from the Thought Exchange as well as suggestions from our consultation with our local Indigenous Nations. This is also a great opportunity to meet our new Board of Education as they will be hosting the event.
- The Board of Education will take into consideration the names suggestions from the public and our local Indigenous Nations. They will decide on a name in March 2023.
- Stay tuned - a groundbreaking ceremony for the new school will be sometime in April 2023 where the school name will be announced.
