Greater Victoria School District launches survey on whether to rename George Jay Elementary

Greater Victoria School District launches survey on whether to rename George Jay Elementary
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Greater Victoria School District launches survey on whether or not to rename George Jay Elementary

The Greater Victoria School District wants public input as it looks at whether or not to rename Ecole George Jay Elementary School in Fernwood.

SD61 has issued an on-line survey in response to concerns within the community about the school namesake’s history.

The Board says George Jay championed segregationist polices with regards to Chinese-Canadian students while he served as Chair of the School Board from 1907 to 1934.

“Our District recognizes and values the diversity of our school population and in no way condones the racist historic practices by some of our predecessors,” said Board Chair, Jordan Watters.

“As we develop a better understanding of institutional racism and the role of the education system, it’s essential that we have conversations as a community in order to determine the best way to address historical wrongs and forge a positive path forward.”

The survey is available on-line beginning on Thursday through October 31.

Along with the survey, an open-house will be held at the school on Wednesday, November 6 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. to gather further input from the community.

The District will then bring the results of the consultations to the Board of Education, which will make the final decision on a possible name change.

SD61 could also appoint an advisory committee to develop a plan for more community engagement and recommendations on a path forward, including potential new names for the school.

 

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