In spring 2023, the Government of Yukon collected feedback from Yukoners on their ideas, considerations and needs about building, upgrading and renovating Whitehorse-area schools. The engagement period ran for just over 60 days and ended in May 2023. During that time Yukoners were asked to provide feedback via an online survey, written submissions, targeted presentations, focus groups and public open houses held across Whitehorse.
Approximately one thousand Yukoners participated in this engagement. The feedback received will help align school renovations and capital projects with the values and priorities of Yukon's diverse families, learners and communities.
Feedback was collected with a focus on the following themes:
- connection to the outdoors
- cultural, inclusive and accessible spaces
- modern learning environments
- other elements determined by the public
The Government of Yukon thanks all Yukoners who dedicated their time to participate in this engagement. The valuable input received will serve as a resource for the Government of Yukon staff and will be carefully considered in future decision making for Whitehorse school capital planning.
To view the What We Heard report visit: Yukon.ca/engagements/Whitehorse-school-facilities-capital-planning
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The way students learn is changing and school environments need to reflect these changes.
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Under the theme of connection to the outdoors, participants commented on the importance of access to green spaces, transportation infrastructure and safety, outdoor cultural activities, access to outdoor spaces and infrastructure, playground space, recreational activities and storage.
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Under the theme of cultural, inclusive and accessible spaces, participants expressed the importance of meeting the needs of neurodivergent students and of integrating First Nations cultural teachings, language and ceremony, along with providing safety and choice for washrooms, spaces for gathering and for mental health and spaces for all cultures.
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Under the theme of modern learning environments, participants talked about the importance of classroom design, applied technology in learning, space for music, arts and drama, mental health-related programming, food and nutrition opportunities, the importance of school gyms, having hands-on learning for trades and schools being a community hub.
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The engagement process was promoted through a number of channels including:
- a news release;
- advertising on local radio, social media and in print publications;
- presentations, targeted letters, and emails to education partners, organizations and Whitehorse-area community associations;
- emails to parents and guardians;
- an e-newsletter to school administrators and staff; and
- word-of-mouth.
