The District of Sooke and School District No. 62 (Sooke) have renewed their Protocol on Cooperation and Partnership, reinforcing a shared commitment to collaboration that benefits students, families, and the broader community.
Signed on June 25, 2025, by Mayor Maja Tait and Board Chair Amanda Dowhy, the renewed agreement outlines the continued intention of both parties to work together on matters of mutual interest, including land use planning, safety, recreation, and long-term community development.
Mayor Maja Tait and School District 62 Board Chair Amanda Dowhy sign the renewed Protocol on Cooperation and Partnership on June 25, 2025 strengthening collaboration between the District of Sooke and the Sooke School Board to support shared community goals.
"We recognize that strong schools and strong communities go hand in hand," said Mayor Maja Tait. "This protocol affirms our dedication to open communication, coordinated planning, and shared solutions that support the success and well-being of all residents - especially our youth."
The protocol defines clear objectives, including:
- Promoting the interests of both the District and the School Board in the broader provincial context.
- Discussing and responding to legislative and regulatory matters affecting local education and municipal services.
- Advancing proactive, cooperative approaches to policies or initiatives with community-wide impacts.
Where appropriate, the District and School Board will also collaborate on joint initiatives to address shared community needs - ensuring both organizations are aligned and responsive to the evolving needs of Sooke residents.
"Our renewed partnership protocol is rooted in respect and shared purpose," said Board Chair Amanda Dowhy. "It provides a framework for continued cooperation as our region grows and as we work to create the best possible learning and living environment for families in Sooke."
To ensure meaningful dialogue and ongoing coordination, the protocol outlines a formal meeting structure including annual meetings between the Board and Council, semi-annual meetings between the Mayor and Board Chair, and quarterly staff-level meetings.
This renewed agreement will remain in effect for four years unless otherwise amended, supporting long-term alignment as both organizations continue to serve the growing Sooke community.
