Prince George Retired Teachers’ Association Education Heritage Committee 2017 School District No. 57 (Prince George) Historical Memories PEOPLE, PLACES, PROGRAMS & SERVICES Sketch by Alan Boyden Edited by KRIS NELLIS Research by JUDY ADDIE RAY BELL MARY CAMPBELL MARGARET CLARK OWEN CORCORAN LORI DENNILL WENDY FISHER BETTY FISHWICK JEAN FROESCUL KATHY GATES-GROGAN BARBARA HALL TIIU NOUKAS Media Design CAROL WHETTER SANDRA HAY KATHIE HILDER PAT JOHNSON SHEILA JOHNSTON VALERIE KILBEY MARGUERITE MACKENZIE ALETA MACFADDEN DARLENE MEYERS CHERYL MIKULASIK CHRIS MORRIS ROBYN NAYLOR KRIS NELLIS MARJORIE NIEHAUS TIIU NOUKAS ROSE PALLO TERRY PHILLIPS JUDY POLYSOU DORCAS RAINES KAREN SIMMONS JOHN STEVENS DON TAYLOR CLARE WILLIS Acknowledgements BC Archives. Victoria, B.C.: Royal BC Museum, 2017. www.bcarchives.gov.bc.ca British Columbia Ministry of Education. Public School Records. Victoria, B.C.: Queen’s Printer, 1910-2016. Education Heritage Collection. Prince George, B.C.: School District No. 57 (Prince George), 1995-2017. http://prin.ent.sirsidynix.net/client/drc Online Exhibits. Regional District of Fraser Fort George, B.C.: The Exploration Place Museum and Science Centre, 2017. www.theexplorationplace.com The Prince George Citizen Newspaper. Prince George, B.C.: Prince George Citizen, 1916-2017. www.princegeorgecitizen.com Prince George Newspaper Project. Prince George, B.C.: Prince George Public Library, 1910-2017 pgnewspapers.lib.pg.bc.ca School Websites. Prince George, B.C.: School District No. 57 (Prince George), 2017. www.sd57.bc.ca Resources Chamberland, June A. From Broadaxe to Clay Chinking; stories about the pioneers in and around the Prince George area. Prince George: College of New Caledonia Press, 2006. Christensen, Bev. Prince George Rivers, Railways and Timber. Prince George: Windsor Publications, Ltd., 1989. Leslie, Agnes & Nadalin, Kathy. “The Book” Memoirs of our Members. Prince George: Elder Citizens Recreation Association, 2008. Life Before The Pulp Mills. Prince George Council of Seniors, 2010. Olson, Raymond W. Ghost Towns on the East Line. Prince George, B.C., 2015. Runnalls, Rev. F. E. A History of Prince George. 2nd edition. City of Prince George, B.C.: Fraser FortGeorge Regional Museum, 1983. Wheeler, Marilyn J. The Robson Valley Story. McBride, B.C.: Robson Valley Story Group, 1979. Wheeler, Marilyn J. The Robson Valley Story; a century of dreams. McBride, B.C.: Sternwheeler Press, 2008. Yellowhead Pass and Its People. [s.l.]: Valemount Historic Society, 1984 The Prince George Retired Teachers’ Association Education Heritage Committee wishes to acknowledge the financial support of the British Columbia Retired Teachers’ Association, the Prince George District Teachers’ Association, School District No. 57 (Prince George) and the Fraser Fort George Regional District. To the best of our knowledge, the information contained in this history is reasonably accurate but errors do occur in the memories of early pioneers and Ministry of Education statistical reports. Corrections are welcome. Introduction This is a snapshot history of approximately 140 schools established in School District No. 57 (Prince George) over the last one hundred years. Included are statistical and factual events, student and staff activities, unique programs, projects and services and “historical memories” of many schools. This district’s educational past is intricately interwoven with the access to forest and mineral resources provided by the Nechako and Fraser rivers and the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway. At the turn of the last century, the early traders, trappers, loggers and miners began to establish communities to support their endeavours. As families migrated to these pioneer settlements, a need for schooling became evident. The first school built in the Prince George area was in South Fort George in 1910 and the first high school followed several years later. Giscome and McBride were the largest rural schools established during the 1920’s along the line of the Grand Trunk Pacific/Canadian National Railway east of Prince George. World War II had a dramatic effect on the growth of northern school districts with an army camp established in Prince George and the building of a highway to Prince Rupert. In 1946, The Public Schools Act consolidated 36 small rural school districts to form School District 57 (Prince George) and consolidated 17 small districts to become School District 58 (McBride). By the mid-1950s the student population in SD 57 reached over 3300, with 43 schools. In the 1960s and 1970s, the school population doubled and tripled overnight as the pulp industry hit the central interior region. The district had difficulty keeping up with a neighbourhood school construction program to accommodate a bulging enrollment and the instant town of Mackenzie added its students to an already overtaxed system. The year 1968 saw the amalgamation of McBride School District into the Prince George District. The 1980s and 1990s saw the district dealing with an era of budget restraint but also saw the development of alternative choices such as French immersion, Montessori, Aboriginal and Teen Mom programs. As small family sawmill operations were centralized and large corporations began to dominate the forest industry, many of the small rural schools were closed. Declining enrollment and shifting population continues to provide budget challenges as Prince George grows up. In the 2000s, a university in the north encouraged K-16 partnerships with colleges and school districts throughout the region. An educational undergraduate program at the University of Northern British Columbia is training teachers, who will, it is hoped, stay in the north to become the educational pioneers of the next century. Table of Contents Rural School Paintings Beaverly Canyon Creek Chief Lake Cranbrook Mills Dunster Fort George Central Fort George South Fraser Flats Mud River Salmon Valley Strathnaver Woodpecker Lakewood Jr. Sec. Lamming Mills Lee Longworth Loos Lucerne Mackenzie Elem McLeod Lake Meadow Millar Addition Mountain View, McBride Mountain View, Mackenzie Mud River Ness Lake Newlands North Nechako Penny Pylot (Pilot) Mountain Red Pass Red Rock Reid Lake Salmon River/Valley Seymour Shady Valley Shelley Shere Sinclair Mills Snowshoe South Fort George St. Marie’s Lake Stone Creek Strathnaver Summit Lake Swift Creek Sylvan Glade Tabor Creek/Tabor Cr. South Tay Telachick Tete Jaune Thompson Upper Fraser West Lake Wildwood Willow River Winton Woodpecker Wright Creek The Artists Gone But Not Forgotten Airport Hill Albreda Aleza Lake Aurora Austin Road Baldy Mountain Bear Lake—Hart Lake Beaver River Bednesti Bend Blackburn Jr Sec Bonnet Hill Bud Lake Cale Creek Camp Creek Cariboo Carney Hill Central Fort George Chief Lake Clear Lake Connaught Jr Sec Cranbrook Mills Crescent Lake Crescent Spur Croydon—North Croydon Dewey Dome Creek Dunster Ferndale Finlay Forks Foreman Flats Fraser Flats Fraserview Gladstone Goat River Haldi Road Hansard Hart Highway Highland Hutton Island Cache Isle Pierre John McInnis Jr Sec Kelly Road Elem Kerry Lake—Mile 4 KGV—P.G. Public Kidd Lakewood Elementary Elementary Schools Beaverly Blackburn Buckhorn College Heights, École Edgewood Foothills Giscome Glenview Hart Highlands Harwin Heather Park Heritage Highglen—Montessori Hixon—Canyon Creek Lac des Bois, École Malaspina McBride Morfee Nukko Lake Nusdeh Yoh Peden Hill Pineview Pinewood Polaris Montessori Quinson Ron Brent—Connaught Southridge Springwood Spruceland Valemount Van Bien Vanway Westwood Secondary Schools College Heights D.P. Todd Duchess Park Kelly Road Mackenzie McBride Prince George Valemount Programs & Services Adult Education Alternative Education District Resource Centre Prince George Dormitory Prince George Teachers’ Curling League Rural Teacherages School District No. 57 (Prince George) Schools—Superintendents—Trustees Singfest Swim Program Index of Schools 1910-2017 Airport Hill 1948-1965 Albreda 1927-1935 Aleza Lake 1921-1964 Aurora 1958-1980 Austin Road 1967-2010 Baldy Mountain 1958-1964 Baron Byng (see Prince George High) Bear Lake/Hart Lake 1955-2006 Beaver River 1925-1945 Beaverly 1919-1925, 1930-1947, 1948Bednesti 1931-1933 Bend 1925-1946 Blackburn Elem. 1960Blackburn Jr. 1967-2002 Bonnet Hill 1952-1964 Buckhorn 1951Bud Lake 1950-1956 Cale Creek 1931-1940 Camp Creek 1932-1942 Canyon Creek (see Hixon) Carney Hill 1967-2010 Central Fort George 1911-2011 Chief Lake 1914-1922, 1934-1959 College Heights Elem. 1971College Heights Sec. 1977Connaught (see Ron Brent) Connaught Jr. 1958-1979 Cranbrook Mills 1932-1958 Crescent Lake 1936-1959 Crescent Spur 1949-1971 Croydon/North Croydon 1923-1954/1950-1965 D.P. Todd Sec. 1977Dewey 1922-1925 Dome Creek 1918-2001 Duchess Park Sec., Ecole 1958Dunster 1915-2010 Edgewood 1974Ferndale 1931-1960 Finlay Forks 1967-1971 Foothills 1974Foreman Flats 1962-1969 Fort George Canyon 1932-1936 Fraser (see McBride Centennial) Fraser Flats 1926-1951 Fraserview 1956-1978 Giscome 1916Gladstone 1976-2002 Glenview 1972Goat River 1948-1950 Haldi Road 1978-2002 Hansard 1939-1947, 1952-1958 Hart Highlands 1975Hart Highway 1952-2002 Hart Lake (see Bear Lake) Hartley (see Salmon Valley) Harwin 1955Heather Park 2000Heritage 1976Highglen 1970-2015 Highland 1967-2003 Hixon/Canyon Creek 1922Hutton 1919-1936, 1940-1942 Island Cache 1955-1972 Isle Pierre 1929-1965 John McInnis Jr. 1972-2010 Kelly Road Elem. 1957-1967 Kelly Road Sec. 1967Kerry Lake/Mile 4 1951-1965 Kidd 1927-1934 King George V/PG Public 1914-2003 Lac des Bois, Ecole 2010Lakewood Elem. 1973-2003 Lakewood Jr. 1968-2010 Lamming Mills 1943-1965 Lee 1919-1950 Longworth 1921-1966 Loos 1919-1965 Lucerne 1915-1925, 1955-1958 Mackenzie Elem. 1966-2010 Mackenzie Sec. 1971Malaspina 1978McBride Centennial/Fraser 1913McBride Sec. 1953McLeod Lake 1957-2003 Meadow 1978-2003 Mile 4 (see Kerry Lake) Index of Schools 1910-2017 Millar Edition 1956-1986 Morfee 1972Mountain View McBride 1929-1947 Mountain View Mackenzie 1972-2002 Mud River 1919-1965 Ness Lake 1935-1942 Newlands/Newlands North 1915-1958/1929-1934 North Nechako 1956-2002 Nukko Lake 1956Nusdeh Yoh 2010Peden Hill 1956Penny 1920-1985 Pineview 1922-1924, 1958Pinewood 1976Polaris Montessori 2015Prince George High/Sec. 1918Prince George Public/Elem. (see KGV) Pylot (Pilot) Mountain 1948-1959 Quinson 1962Red Pass 1928-1967 Red Rock 1954-2001 Reid Lake 1926-1984 Ron Brent/Connaught 1946Salmon River/Valley 1926-2010 Seymour 1963-2002 Shady Valley 1956-2010 Shelley 1923-1965 Shere 1935-1939 Sinclair Mills 1926-1984 Snowshoe 1927-1945 South Central (see Harwin) South Fort George 1910-2003 Southridge 1993Springwood 1974-2010, 2017Spruceland 1965St. Marie’s Lake 1959-1965 Stone Creek 1921-1927, 1940-1951, 1952-1984 Strathnaver 1929-1955, 1959-1965 Summit Lake 1948-1965 Swift Creek 1916-1935 Sylvan Glade 1931-1963 Tabor Creek/Tabor Creek South 1925-1960 Tay 1959-1963 Telachick 1954-1964 Tete Jaune/Tete Jaune South 1911-1914, 1934-1976 Thompson 1927-1946 Upper Fraser 1948-1999 Valemount Elem. 1935Valemount Sec. 1974Van Bien 1967Van Bow (see Carney Hill) Vanway 1961West Lake 1950-1963 Westwood 1969Wildwood 1969-2003 Willow River 1914-1965 Winton 1965-1974 Woodpecker 1923-1950 Wright Creek 1962-1964 Artists Co-op Rural School Paintings The Artists Co-Op, formed in 1987, is involved in a variety of community art activities including classes for teens and adults. A workshop and gallery is located at 2302 Hart Highway, Prince George. Work of its members can be seen on display throughout the city. In 2006 several members, under the direction of Gloria Thorpe, undertook a project to preserve the past history of School District No. 57 (Prince George) by using different mediums to paint twelve rural public schools of bygone years. Some of the buildings are still standing but most of the paintings are the artists’ interpretations of photographs from the SD 57 Education Heritage Collection. These works, together with a brief biography of the artist and history of the school, are displayed on the following pages. A more detailed history of some school appears in the chapter, Gone But Not Forgotten. Paintings of Rural Schools Paintings of Rural Schools Beaverly School Oil Painting by Alice Westra The original Beaverly School was located on Muralt Road in East Beaverly off Highway 16 west of Prince George. Construction began in 1918 and was completed by the community in 1919. Miss Olive May Clark was the first teacher from January to June 1919. Miss Bocock taught in the fall of 1920 but Miss L. T. Cowdell finished the year. The first teacher’s desk was a gift from Mr. Geo. E. McLaughlin, manager of Northern Lumber Co. The building was used as a school from 1919-1925 and again from 1930-1947. No enrollment data was sent to the Department of Education until 1946 when the school became part of School District No. 57 (Prince George). In 1947, this building closed with 6 students enrolled in Grades 2-6. The building still stands in a farmer’s field in East Beverly and is used for hay storage. In 1966, a new school was built on the west side of Highway 16 on Western Road and is still operating under the same name. The students are bussed from East Beverly to this school. Canyon Creek School Oil Painting by Benita Karlson The Canyon Creek School was built east of Hixon Creek, on land donated by Mr. and Mrs. Colgrove, and opened in September 1922. It was a small square log building with heavy moss chinking. The first teacher of the ten Grade 1-9 students was Mr. Alexander Craig (or Grieg). He was succeeded by James Nimmo (1923-1926), Mrs. Ada Ashby (1926-1928) and Muriel Summers (19281932). A nearby teacherage was built when Mrs. Ashby arrived. The school had 65 students in1952 and portable classrooms were brought in while a new school was built on Lockyer Road, to the right of Highway 97, south of Prince George. The old building was sold in 1952 and became a private dwelling. The new school’s name was changed to Hixon School in 1965. The old Canyon Creek School still exists in quite good condition and is probably used as a shed. Paintings of Rural Schools Paintings of Rural Schools Chief Lake School Watercolour Pencil by Sharon Antonenko This is a painting of the third Chief Lake School located on Thompson Road north of Prince George, off Chief Lake Road. It was built in 1934 by Sam Mytting and the Allen boys. Although the School Board gave a grant for doors and windows, labour was supplied by the residents of the area. The school opened with the minimum requirement of 10 students. The first students were Bert and Ellen Peterson, Elfred and Marg Kuchnel, Bud, Elsie and Ida Johnson, Ellen Clayton and the three Jones children. The teacher was Miss E. Frances Kirkham. An annex was opened for a short period of time in the 1940’s because of increased enrollment. This school was closed in 1956 and students were bussed to Nukko Lake. The picture was inspired by a photograph in the SD 57 Education Heritage Collection. Cranbrook Mills School Oil Painting by Gloria Thorpe The Cranbrook Mills School was sometimes referred to as Cranbrook Hill School. Named after a sawmill in the area, it was a one-room school located on the corner of Swanson Road and Cranbrook Hill Road west of Prince George. The school opened in 1932 and the first teacher was Miss Winnifred Tyner. After marriage, Winnifred Lonsdale taught here until 1938. In 1945, there were fifteen students from Grades 1-8 and there were eleven students when it closed in 1958. Since 1974, the children in this area have been bussed to Foothills Elementary School in the city of Prince George. The dilapidated building, painted here, now stands in a farmer’s field further along Cranbrook Hill Road and is presently used to store hay. Regina Schulz, who attended the school, provided the photograph that was used as inspiration for this painting. The photograph is part of the SD 57 Education Heritage Collection. Paintings of Rural Schools Paintings of Rural Schools Dunster School Acrylic Painting by Elaine Ceal This is a painting of the second Dunster School, located east of McBride off the Yellowhead Highway in the Robson Valley, on the northside of the Fraser River. This school opened in 1932 and was a two-storey building built of cedar logs. The one-room school was also the community hall, which was housed on the second floor. When the school opened, Miss Ruth Butler was the teacher. In 1946, the school became part of School District No. 58 (McBride). The McBride School District ledger in 1949 listed the monthly expenses for Dunster as $187.00 for the teacher’s salary, $14.00 for janitorial expenses, $7.20 for building repairs, $48.00 for wood and $7.53 for teaching supplies. This school burned down in 1963 and its replacement was built on the Dunster-Croydon Road. The painting is the artist’s concept from a photograph found in the Valley Museum & Archives, McBride. Fort George Central School Oil Painting by Barb Brant This painting is of Fort George School, also known as “The Pink Schoolhouse”. It was a two-room school built on Third Avenue in Central Fort George in 1915. It replaced a one-room log building that had been in use from 1910-1914. Mr. William Bell had worked in the original log school and continued working in the new building until 1918. Other early teachers were Mr. Percy E. Warner, Mrs. Charlotte Warner and Mrs. Frances Hand. In 1945, the student population was 25. In 1946, the name of the school was changed to Fort George Central. In 1947, the student population was 100 and in 1951 five rooms were added to the original structure. When a new school was built, this school remained on the Central Fort George grounds as a Continuing Education adult learning centre and night school. The building was finally demolished in 2004. The painting was inspired by a photograph in the SD 57 Education Heritage Collection. Paintings of Rural Schools Paintings of Rural Schools Fort George South School Oil and Pen by Iris Peters Pictured here is the first Fort George South School, which was a 15’ x 30’ garage that was rented from Mr. M.C. Wiggins. It was located on 4th Street in South Fort George, below the hill and opened in September 1910. The building was heated with a wood stove and, of course, had outdoor plumbing. The first teacher was Miss L. Brady (September- December 1910) followed by Mrs. A. B. Campbell (December 1910April 1913). There were 28 students from Grades 1-10. The building was not used as a school after 1913. At that time, Mr. Wiggins rented it as a gymnasium and it was used mainly for boxing lessons. Later Mr. Wiggins used it as his home. It was sold to the Weatherly family who later donated the building to the Fort George Museum. The old school still stands on the grounds of Exploration Place. Fraser Flats School Pen and Ink by Marna Tuffnell This painting is the artist’s concept of Fraser Flats School, built near the CNR Crossing close to where Northwood Pulp Mill is now. The logs to build a one-room school, along with the property, were donated by Mr. Simmons. Vess Saunderson was one of the builders and the school opened in 1926. Mrs. Fannie E.S. Buchanan was the first teacher (1926-1931); she was later known as Fannie Kinney. The school was closed in 1937 and reopened in 1942. In the 1940’s, there were between 8 and 19 students. Joan Perry was the last teacher when it closed in 1952 with 6 students. She married Ivor Buchi who had attended Fraser Flats in its early years. The property was sold to W.G. Boyes in 1955. It had several other owners and Alex Lazden sold it to Northwood. The photograph of this school is available in the SD 57 Education Heritage Collection. Paintings of Rural Schools Paintings of Rural Schools Mud River School Oil Painting by Eileen Belbeck This painting of the second Mud River School was the artist’s concept taken from a photograph in the SD 57 Education Heritage Collection. The school was originally a log house built by Andrew Miller. It was located in the Upper Mud River area, west of Prince George, off Highway 16. A room at the back was used as a teacherage. The school opened in January 1920 with seventeen students and the first teacher was Mrs. K. Rocklyeft. Other early teachers were Miss J. V. McLarty (1922-1924) and Miss Bessie Miller (1924-1925). Throughout the 20’s and 30’s, dances and church services were regularly held at the school. In 1945, the school had seventeen students in Grades 1-7. Mud River School closed in 1965 with 15 students enrolled. The students in this area were then, and continue to be, bussed to Beaverly Elementary School on Western Road off Highway 16. Salmon Valley School Oil Painting by Pat Russman This painting is the artist’s concept taken from a photograph by Kent Sedgwick in the SD 57 Education Heritage Collection. The schools in the Salmon River area were frequently moved due to low enrollment or fire. The school pictured here was a one-room school located on the south side of Highway 97, near the Salmon River. It was opened in 1935 on land owned by Sinai Beauregard. The teachers were Miss E. E. Jones (1935-1937), Miss P. Benson (1937-1938), and L. M. Sutherland (l938-1939). The building was a hand-hewn log structure with living quarters, built by families in the community. It was closed in 1940 but reopened from 1948 to 1950. In January 1951, fire destroyed the school. Paintings of Rural Schools Paintings of Rural Schools Strathnaver School Pen and Watercolour by Karen Dougan The first Strathnaver School was a one-room log school located 45 miles south of Prince George. The painting was inspired by a photograph in the SD 57 Education Heritage Collection. It opened in September 1929 with ten students in Grades 1-8. The first teachers were Miss Dorothy C. Stimpson (1930-1931) and Miss C. M. Murray (1931-1933). The school was closed in 1948 when a young teacher arrived and refused to teach because of the condition of the school. A portable school was then brought in. This school was on the right of way for the new Highway 97, so the School Board had the building burned in 1956. The students in this area are now bussed to an elementary school in the Quesnel School District. Woodpecker School Oil Painting by Sharon Paul Woodpecker School was named for Woodpecker Island in the Fraser River. A photograph in the SD 57 Education Heritage Collection inspired the painter. It was a one-room school located 30 miles south of Prince George, on the Fraser River, off Highway 97. It opened in September 1923 with six students in Grades 1-8 from the surrounding farming community. The first teachers, including Miss C. Frith (1923-1924) and Mrs. Ada Ashby (1924-1926), were appointed from either Vancouver or Victoria. The Woodpecker Farmers Institute was held in the school until a community hall was built. Church services were also held there until a church was built. In 1946, the school became a part of School District No. 57 (Prince George). It had fourteen students when it was closed in 1950. The building burned down in the 1990’s. The students in this area were bussed to Hixon Elementary School. Paintings of Rural Schools The Artists Alice Westra ...was a member of the Artists Co-Op only for a short time but she has been painting since the early 1990’s. She has always focused on painting with oils and had one show of her work at the Co-Op while she was a member. She has sold some of her work but painting has mainly been a hobby. Alice drove a school bus in the Beaverly area but had no knowledge of the old school when she selected it to paint. Alice took pictures of the old building to help with her painting but had to fill in many details, such as the windows, from her imagination. Benita Karlson ...has been a member of the Artists Co-Op since 1987, shortly after it was formed. She had always wanted to paint so joined the group after she retired. She works mainly in oils and now teaches a beginner’s oil class at the Co-Op. Benita has also worked with watercolours, pencil and charcoals. She has displayed and sold her work at the Artists Co-Op and the P.G. Playhouse. Benita has no personal connection to Canyon Creek School but she found the old building and took photographs to supplement the photo that she was given. Sharon Antonenko ...was one of the eight founding members of the Artists Co-Op, when it was formed in 1987. She has been interested in art all her life and teaches watercolours, which is her favourite medium. She also works with oils and acrylics. Sharon has participated in numerous art shows at the Artists CoOp and other galleries, including shows in the Okanagan and Alberta. She has sold her work at various venues and she also does commission work. Sharon chose to portray this school because a friend attended Nukko Lake School. She remembers seeing the school before it was torn down in the 1970’s. Gloria Thorpe ...has been a member of the Artists Co-Op since 1997. She has always had a passion for art; however, she took up painting in earnest a year before she retired from teaching and took art classes at Studio 2880. Gloria teaches watercolours but also works in oils, pen and ink, acrylics and coloured charcoals. She selected this school because she taught at Foothills Elementary and some of the students had grandparents that attended Cranbrook Mills. The photo she used was taken in the spring but she wanted a fall setting for her picture so she went to the original site of the school one November to take pictures of the area. Paintings of Rural Schools Elaine Ceal ...has been a member of the Artists Co-Op since 2005. She has painted off and on her whole life but had not painted for some time before joining the Co-Op. Since joining, she has completed 55 paintings and in 2006 had a solo exhibition at the Via Rail Tourist Centre for six weeks and another at the Artists Co-Op. She has also exhibited her work with other Artists Co-Op members at locations such as Studio Fair. Elaine mainly uses acrylics but has dabbled in oils and watercolours. She was originally known as a rock artist and now teaches rock art. Elaine did not have a personal reason for selecting Dunster School. Barb Brant ...has been a member of the Artists Co-Op since 2001. Barb became interested in painting through family influences. She had an uncle who was a commercial artist and an aunt, in Hawaii, who was an artist. When her aunt died, Barb was given all her oil paints. She now works with oils, acrylics and charcoal. She paints for pleasure but also sells her work. She has also shown her work at the P.G. Playhouse and Artists Co-Op. She has taught children’s art classes at the Co-Op for five years. Barb used a photocopy of a black ink sketch of Central Fort George to create her picture, as the school has been destroyed. Iris Peters ...joined the Artists Co-Op in 2004. She had always enjoyed art and always drew but set it aside when she had her family. When she retired from teaching in 2002, she got back into art. She enjoys working at the Artists Co-Op with people of similar interests. She paints for pleasure, and for the meditative effect, but has also exhibited her work at the Co-Op and the P.G. Playhouse. Iris prefers to work with oils but has also worked with charcoal and watercolours. The current South Fort George Elementary was the last school where Iris taught. She accessed the archives at Exploration Place to find a photo of the old school which she used in her painting. Marna Tuffnell ...has been a member of the Artists Co-Op since 1996. She is a self-taught artist and now assists with the special-needs art class at the Co-Op. She also teaches a coloured charcoal class. Marna has lived in Prince George since 1955 and selected Fraser Flats because of her interest in log buildings. Paintings of Rural Schools Eileen Belbeck ...has belonged to the Artists Co-Op since 2005. She had never painted before and took classes in acrylics, oils, watercolours and charcoal. She paints for her own enjoyment and for her family. Eileen has friends in Mud River that lived on the property where the school once stood. She used a sketch of the school to create her picture. Pat Russman ...joined the Artists Co-Op in 1988 and enjoys the comraderie of the group. She has painted since she was young and has taken classes in Prince George and in Vancouver. She has worked with pastels and acrylics but now only uses oils. She teaches an oil portrait class at the Co-Op. Pat has done commission work and has displayed her work at the P.G. Playhouse, P.G. Public Library and the Two Rivers Gallery. She selected this school because she has a friend who lives in Salmon Valley and thought that the photo she saw showed the school had a lot of character. Karen Dougan ...has been a member of the Artists Co-Op since retiring from teaching in 2000. Before that she had taken some night classes at the Co-Op and had been interested in art since childhood. She usually works with oils but also uses pen and ink, coloured charcoals, pencil and watercolours, which are her greatest challenge. She paints for pleasure and to improve her own skills but has sold some pieces through the Co-Op. She chose this school because she liked the look of its one room and its window. She worked from a black and white photograph. Sharon Paul ...has belonged to the Artists Co-Op since 1988. She had always wanted to paint so her husband bought her a membership to the Artists Co-Op one Christmas. She took classes and still occasionally takes master classes from artists such as Ken Ferris and Gene Brickner. She teaches teen classes at the Artists Co-Op. Sharon works in oils, watercolours, pen and ink, coloured charcoals and pencil. She creates mainly for pleasure but does do commission work, often of people’s pets. She selected Woodpecker School because her son-in-law lived in the school’s area when he was young. She used a photo for her painting as the school had burned down. Schools - Gone But Not Forgotten Airport Hill Albreda Aleza Lake Aurora Austin Road Baldy Mountain Bear Lake—Hart Lake Beaver River Bednesti Bend Blackburn Jr Sec Bonnet Hill Bud Lake Cale Creek Camp Creek Cariboo Carney Hill Central Fort George Chief Lake Clear Lake Connaught Jr Sec Cranbrook Mills Crescent Lake Crescent Spur Croydon—North Croydon Dewey Dome Creek Dunster Ferndale Finlay Forks Foreman Flats Fraser Flats Fraserview Gladstone Goat River Haldi Road Hansard Hart Highway Highland Hutton Island Cache Isle Pierre John McInnis Jr Sec Kelly Road Elem Kerry Lake—Mile 4 KGV—P.G. Public Kidd Lakewood Elementary Lakewood Jr. Sec. Lamming Mills Lee Longworth Loos Lucerne Mackenzie Elem McLeod Lake Meadow Millar Addition Mountain View, McBride Mountain View, Mackenzie Mud River Ness Lake Newlands North Nechako Penny Pylot (Pilot) Mountain Red Pass Red Rock Reid Lake Salmon River/Valley Seymour Shady Valley Shelley Shere Sinclair Mills Snowshoe South Fort George St. Marie’s Lake Stone Creek Strathnaver Summit Lake Swift Creek Sylvan Glade Tabor Creek/Tabor Cr. South Tay Telachick Tete Jaune Thompson Upper Fraser West Lake Wildwood Willow River Winton Woodpecker Wright Creek Airport Hill Elementary LOCATION 1948-1965 Airport Hill Elementary was located on Johnson Road in the Pineview area, south of Prince George, seven miles from the present airport site. STAFF Ai r p o rt H il l 1 9 5 0 HISTORY SD 57 Education Heritage Collection A one-room wood construction building opened in 1948 with 25 students in Grade 1-6. The school was limited to the primary grades from 1956 to its closure in 1965. When closed, students were sent to Pineview School. The Airport Hill school is still standing and is being used for storage. Gr ad e 1-4 Cl as s 1 955 M iss Ridl ey , t ea cher The Exploration Place 2004.2.625 Mrs. Olson Miss Anna Marie Hilderbrand Mrs. Tee Backmeyer Mrs. M. Scultz Miss Elsie Wellsby Miss Diane Levinson Miss Ashwell Miss Ridley Mrs. Walter Zubrecki Airport Hill Elementary ENROLLMENT Gra de 1 -2 C l ass 19 57 M iss As hwell , t eac her The Exploration Place P993.11.4.11.1.2 YEAR 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 GRADE 1-6 1-6 1-6 1-6 1-5 1-5 1-4 1-4 1-3 1-3 1-3 1-3 1-3 1-3 1-2 1-3 1-3 # 25 25 30 28 24 28 23 24 28 36 26 30 26 27 15 13 13 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Did You Know? I A N THE 1950ʼS, THERE WAS AN “AIRPORT NEWS” COLUMN IN THE CITIZEN NEWSPAPER THAT CITED MANY OF THE SCHOOL ACTIVITIES. IRPORT HILL FORMED A SCHOOL BOY PATROL TO TRY AND CURB SPEEDING IN THE 15 MILE PER HOUR ZONE POSTED IN THE AIRPORT AREA. THEIR SLOGAN WAS “WE HAVE NOT A CHILDʼS LIFE TO SPARE”. A IRPORT HILL PTA WAS ORGANIZED IN 1950 WITH 13 MEMBERS. THEY WERE A VERY ACTIVE GROUP AND RAISED MONEY TO PURCHASE A PHONOGRAPH AND RECORDS, SCHOOL EMBLEMS, ARMS BANDS, LIBRARY BOOKS AND PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT FOR THE SCHOOL. T S HERE WAS A WEEKLY SHOWING OF NATIONAL FILM BOARD FILMS ON SUNDAY NIGHTS AT THE SCHOOL. TUDENTS AT THE SCHOOL, IN THE EARLY 1950ʼS, WERE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY…THEY HAD SEVERAL WASTE PAPER DRIVES OF OLD MAGAZINES AND NEWSPA- PERS TO RAISE MONEY FOR SCHOOL ACTIVITIES. Airport Hill Elementary Wi l ber t Wal l & Li nda C hadw i ck with Super vis or Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen PINEVIEW MEET WELL RECEIVED The Pineview Arena held St u de n ts V i e w i n g K al e i do s co p e 195 0 The Exploration Place 2002.48.8 what should be the final track meet for the season. The meet was held last week on the Airport School grounds. This meet was attended by the Pineview school, Tabor Creek, Airport and Fraserview School. During the day two individual winners were declared, a boy and a girl. Linda Chadwick, and Wilbert Wall were the two with the highest points. Both received five first place ribbons. July 13, 1959 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Air por t H ill Ey e Ex am inat ions 195 0 M a ry M cK inley , pub lic heal t h nurs e The Exploration Place 2002.48.3 Albreda Elementary 1927-1935 LOCATION Albreda Elementary School was located on the Yellowhead Highway, 14 miles south of Valemount, on the Albreda River near the scenic Albreda Glacier. Albreda was also a siding on the Canadian Northern rail line at an elevation of 2866 ft. S TAF F Al b red a E lem ent ar y Cl as s 1 928 Ce cil Cha t field , t ea cher Valemount Historical Society Miss A.L. McConnell Cecil Chatfield K.A. Sawyer Lynn Jarrett HISTORY In 1883, early surveyors named the area after Lady Albreda Lyveden. The school, built later, was a one–room schoolhouse of log construction. The first teacher was Miss A.L. McConnell. The school closed in 1935 with Lynn Jarrett as the last teacher. Most remaining students probably attended the new school at Valemount. During World War II, Japanese Canadians were held at an internment road camp in the area. Gr o u p w i t h L y n n J ar re t t , te a ch e r (f e ma le a t l e f t) 193 3 The Exploration Place P993.11.4.11.1.2 Aleza Lake Elementary LOCATION 1921-1964 Located 60 km north east of Prince George, four miles west of Upper Fraser on the old Highway 16. The school was situated on the CN Rail line near the present UNBC Aleza Lake Research Forest. STAFF Al eza La ke Sc hool 198 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY The school was built in 1921 at the top of the hill, east of the community store. It was the usual country building with windows on the east and north side, a big coal-burning stove and a filtered water cooler. Ther e was a sma ll p orch at the fr ont a nd a shed full of coal at the ba ck. Grades 1 to 8 were enrolled most years. Miss Johnson was the first teacher. In 1946, the school became part of School District No. 57 (Prince George). The school was closed in 1963 with an enrollment of 31 students. Students in this area are now bussed to Giscome Elementary School. Miss Annie Johnson (First Teacher 1921) Miss Filmore Miss Blackman Miss Anderson Miss Marshall Miss Muir Miss Dragan Miss Moon Miss Gillespie Miss Sproat Miss Churchman Miss Prouse Miss Smallwood Miss Rutledge Miss Cox Mr. Dupre Mrs. Hellenius Mrs. Cruise Mr. Abrahams Mr. Barkes Aleza Lake Elementary Did You Know? ENROLLME N T YEAR 1945 1946 1947 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 # 28 36 31 27 24 28 34 28 36 35 36 43 33 31 39 40 40 29 31 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) T HE COMMUNITY AND SCHOOL WERE NAMED AFTER A CARRIER INDIAN MAIDEN THAT LIVED NEAR THE LAKE WHEN THE ORIGINAL GRAND TRUNK RAILWAY (CNR) WAS BUILT. I N THE 1920ʼS, PHYSICAL EDUCATION IN THE ALEZA LAKE SCHOOL PROGRAM WAS DONE IN THE CLASSROOM TO CLASSI- CAL MUSIC PLAYED ON A GRAMOPHONE. I C A NSPECTOR WILLISTON CLOSED THE SCHOOL FOR A WEEK IN THE WINTER OF 1950 DUE TO LACK OF FUEL. HILD HEALTH CONFERENCES WERE HELD BY THE CARIBOO HEALTH UNIT IN THE SCHOOL IN THE 1950ʼS AND 1960ʼS. SCHOOL TRACK MEET WAS HELD AT ALEZA LAKE ON JUNE 21, 1955. SCHOOLS FROM NEWLANDS, UPPER FRASER, ALEZA LAKE AND SINCLAIR MILLS COMPETED. WINNER OF THE HIGHEST SCORE WAS ALEZA LAKE. T HE SCHOOL WAS CONSIDERED AN ELEMENTARY JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL FOR A FEW YEARS BEFORE IT CLOSED IN 1964. An experimental station was situated at Aleza Lake from 1925-1964 under the management of the B.C. Forest Service. In 2001, the area became a UNBC and UBC outdoor research facility and working forest. Aleza Lake Elementary Memories During the early years, the school was also the social centre and Christmas concerts were very well attended, as were the occasional Saturday night dance and whist and bridge parties. Usually the dance music was from gramophone records but, occasionally, Big Ed Lemay would be in town and he would play the violin superbly. Every teacher was expected to put on a lavish Christmas concert and they all surpassed the expectations. The teacher would begin to give out parts and plan costumes in October and prayed everyone would know their lines by the last day of school, which was the traditional night for the concert. Ethelwynn MacArthur. The Way It Was. Fraser Fort George Museum, 1983. HOLD SHOWER FOR DISTRICT TEACHER The School House on Friday was the scene of two miscellaneous showers for the teacher, Miss Mary Smallwood, whose marriage to Victor Engstrom takes place soon. June 26, 1947 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen My introduction to the place, to the teacherage, was the hill. It rained all day and when we got there we couldn’t make it up the hill. We had to carry our stuff up the hill in my wagon. And it was a week or so before we could get a vehicle up the hill. I had twenty-eight kids in the school……there were lots of forest activities and the experimental farm and Trick Mill were there. John Abrahams. An Interview with John and Gertrude Abrahams. PGRTA Oral History, 2003. Aurora Elementary 1958-1980 12th & Gillett Street, Prince George Aurora School 1970 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History The original one-room school was built on the corner of Harwin Elementary School’s grounds. It was built as a joint project between the Prince George Construction Association and the Prince George Kiwanis Club for the Prince George and District Association for Handicapped Children. This school for challenged children was built with a twist as the building was completed in one day on June 23, 1958. The project started at 3 a.m. and was finished about 15 minutes ahead of schedule at 5:45 p.m. It received local radio and national television coverage, as it was the first of many pre-fabricated buildings built by contractors in the Prince George area. In September of 1963, two more rooms were added and, in September 1969, Aurora School was integrated into the school district and became a primary annex of Winton School. Aurora School Project June 23, 1958 Exploration Place P991.9.1.25.3 Grand Opening June 23, 1958 Exploration Place P991.9.1.25.19 Aurora Elementary enrollment y ear 1969 1970 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 gr ade 4-7 1-7 1-3 1-3 1-3 1-3 1-3 Elem/Jr Elem Elem # 24 24 23 27 23 22 21 22 25 10 Source: Public Schools Annual R eport (s) The first instructors were Mrs. Linda Hope and Mrs. Emily Wyles. Three hours of instruction took place five days a week. Grade 1–7 students within Prince George city limits were bussed to the school. Many parents and members of the community volunteered to help with extra-curricular programs and field trips. There were about ten students and a bus driver employed in the early 1960’s. By 1965, there were 17 pupils in two classrooms. The school was funded by a government grant to the Association for Handicapped Children, public and parental donations, and many Prince George service clubs such as the Kiwanis, Lions, Moose and Shriners. The Lions Club donated a new bus in 1967. Certified special needs teachers were hired in 1969 as the enrollment increased and the school district took over the management of the school. A pre-school program, held three mornings a week, was established by the association in 1970. In 1980, special needs elementary students from Aurora School were assigned to their home schools with teacher assistants and learning assistance teachers hired to help integrate them into a regular classroom setting. Secondary students were enrolled in the Special Learning Resource Program at Duchess Park Secondary. The original curriculum for what was at the time termed “trainable” mentally challenged children included personal grooming, social adjustment, physical and mental coordination and citizenship. Students were taught life skills, good manners and behaviour, safety, work habits and independence in the community. Sewing, cooking and washing dishes for the girls and woodworking sessions for the boys were included. The students also went bowling once a week and a volunteer taught them square dancing. Swimming, nature hikes and trips to shopping centres were other extra-curricular activities. Library Lesson 1959 Mrs. Emily Wyles, Instructor Exploration Place P991.9.2.302.2 Aurora Elementary Senior Girls Make Lunch 1965 Courtesy of The Prince G eorge Citizen December 13, 1965 Boys Enjoy Woodwork 1965 Courtesy of The Prince G eorge Citizen December 13, 1965 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Children Enjoyed the Mikado May we please express, through your newspaper, our Association’s gratitude to the Prince George Light Opera Society. Thanks to the Light Opera Society, Saturday was a red letter day in the lives of the children of Aurora School. The children attended the matinee performance of the “Mikado” as guests of the Society. It was the first time the children had attended a public function as a group. Mrs. Hope, our teacher, prepared the children by telling them something about the play and Mrs. Bauman, the assistant teacher, offered her services as bus driver. When the bus arrived at their homes, the children with coats and hats on, were watching out the windows. They waved goodbye to their brothers and sisters and piled aboard the bus and away we all went to the show. And from the very smallest who is five, to the fourteen year old, they thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. They were fascinated by the music, color and dancing and laughed delightedly at Pooh-Bah’s awkward efforts to bow down before the emperor and at Ko-Ko’s antics. We all felt the afternoon was a great success and will plan more of these outings in the future. Our heartfelt thanks again to the Prince George Light Opera Society for inviting the Aurora School children to be their guests at the “Mikado”. (Mrs.) Constance Hawley, President Prince George and District Association for Handicapped Children March 10, 1959 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Aurora Elementary Did You Know? F or many years, Aurora School took part in a Canadian wide “flowers of hope” Mother’s Day campaign. The students sold annual cosmos flower seeds door-todoor as a means of raising funds for their school. T he giant Aurora Christmas Card became an annual holiday fundraiser. Large greeting cards, painted by local artist Joan Aspa, were put on display at the Parkwood Shopping Centre. Donors dropped their donations and a greetings list into a locked box near the card. A member of Aurora’s Women’s Auxiliary picked up the donations and entered the names on the big cards. These names were also reprinted in The Prince George Citizen. The idea was to dispense with mailing individual cards to friends in Aurora Greeting Card 1967 Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen November 6, 1967 favour of the big Aurora Christmas Card. In 1967, the program was expanded and two new cards were painted and donated to the auxiliary, one by Prince George College art students and the second by another local artist, Joy Jinkerson. These cards were located at Stedmans in Spruceland and in the downtown Northern Hardware. A descriptive poster, accompanying the cards, was painted by a Prince George Senior Secondary student, Darryl Milne. A urora Services Workshop for the Handicapped was set up on 3rdAvenue by the Prince George and District Association for Handicapped Children in 1967. This was a sheltered workshop that provided employment opportunities for mentally handicapped students over 18 years old. Mrs. Rose Dorish was the supervisor. Later, a warehouse at 966 5th Avenue was converted to a modern workshop facility and activity centre. The student employees made paper and plastic flowers plus pompoms for weddings, folded brochures, stuffed and stamped envelopes for local businesses, sorted, stapled and labeled newsletters, rolled coins and made Yule logs for Christmas. A woodworking area made teak napkin rings, Mr. Pee Gee souvenirs, wooden board games such as “Bamboozle”, snowgolf tees, birdhouses and other projects. The Aurora Workshop was the beginnings of the current AimHi Prince George Association for Community Living programs and services. Aurora Elementary I n 1977, two boys from Aurora School travelled to the Special Olympics for Handicapped Children in Toronto. The local Lions Club sponsored them. They didn’t win medals but this was the first time that anyone from Prince George had attended the national Special Olympics. “Memories Not Medals” Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen June 16, 1977 Memories I was hired to work under Dale Fiddick, the principal of Winton School, in a class of grades one and two retarded to slow learners. There was little difference to what I had been doing in Manitoba, but much more school district support. When circumstances changed and the school was moved to where Duchess Park High School had been, an open area for teaching was put in place. In theory it was a good idea, but for easily distracted slow learners it was far from ideal. It was frustrating to be working with a group only to find one half of the children were watching another class. All the teachers had the same problem and we always tried to do the same type of activity at the same time. Sometimes it worked, sometimes it didn’t. After fours years, Mr. Lunn, the supervisor, asked if I would move to Aurora School as they were having a problem getting staff there. The children were generally much more handicapped mentally, and in many ways easier to teach as they tried very hard to please. Occasional disruptive behavior was both expected and coped with when it happened. Emma Russell. An Interview with Emma Russell: Pioneer Teacher in Western Canada. PGRTA Oral History, 2002. Aurora Elementary Wow! Look at That! Okanagan Helicopter Ride 1972 Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen November 3, 1972 Dashing Through the Snow with Santa 1975 Central Interior Arabian Horse Club Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen December 15, 1975 Busy Schedule Planned for Aurora Students Children attending Aurora School enjoyed a small Valentine party at the school following lunch today. Students are also busy practicing for the music festival to be held the second week in March. Sister Mary Peter from St. Mary’s School donated her lunch hour to give special help to the rhythm band. Boys taking woodwork have been divided into two classes which not only makes room for new pupils from the intermediate room but also allows for more individual instruction. Instructor is Ralph Watt. Special thanks was extended to Mrs. D. Fontaine for the laundering of the school drapes and to Mrs. W. F. McCormick and Mrs. Locke who re-pleated and hung these curtains. A donation of latex paint was made to the school by Mr. and Mrs. DiGiovanni to repaint furniture and large wooden blocks. Sir John A. Macdonald’s day will be observed Friday with a school holiday. February 14, 1967 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Austin Road Elementary 4543 West Austin Road, Prince George 1967-2010 “Aim for Success ~ Viser le succès” Mission Statement Striving for responsible, caring, life-long learners Austin Road Elementary 2002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History Austin Road Elementary opened in September 1967 with 529 students and reached 671 by 1971. In 1972, there was an Austin Road Annex at Kelly Road Secondary that housed 132 students in grades 1 and 2. In 1975, Hart Highlands Elementary was established although they shared the Austin Road facility that year. An addition to the school was made in 1980. In 1985, French Immersion was introduced and eventually the program grew to include Kindergarten to grade 7. In 1998, the school was refurbished with new exterior stucco, new windows, new flooring and a gym floor upgrade. The cracking surface of the courtyard was replaced with interlocking bricks and many interior surfaces were given a fresh coat of paint. The office area was reconfigured to provide a health room, photocopy room and three separate office areas. That year Austin Road was the largest elementary school in the district and continued to be for several more years. In 2000, the grade 6 and 7 students were moved to the newly opened Heather Park Middle School. The school was closed in June 2010 due to declining enrollment and school consolidation. Austin Road Elementary English enrollment Immersion enrollment Year 1967 1971 1972 1973 1977 1983 1988 1993 1998 2000 2004 2008 Year 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1996 1998 2000 2004 2008 Grade # 1-6 529 1-7 671 1-7 380+132 K-7 569 K-7 407 K-7 319 K-7 280 K-7 465 K-7 355 K-5 271 K-5 209 K-5 208 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Phil Redmond’s Class 1969 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Class Activities 1970’s to 2000’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Grade K-1 K-2 K-3 K-4 K-5 K-6 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-5 K-5 K-5 # 33 51 69 85 100 119 128 126 107 83 111 99 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Austin Road Elementary Early Staff Judi Auld Fern Horth Roy Taylor Roxanne Madryga Beryl McMurray Laura Day Susan Michelmas Jake Wiens Jackie Meikle Lorna Rempel Phil Redmond Susan Denby Bonnie Herasymiuk John Turner Luci Denis Linda Reid Norma MacMillan Art Reed Ann Stott Cecilia Styles Frank Hamilton (principal) Austin Road Staff 1970 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Vice Principals Principals Frank Hamilton Merv Dyck Geoff Eacott Don Wilkins John Deevy Brian Pepper John McLay Luc St. Denis Owen Corcoran Gail Runschke Lorne Brown Rusty Rustemeyer Paul Bennett Janice Wharrie Madeleine Crandell Anjula Corbin Gail Walraven (Zone VP) Norma Hart (Zone VP) Art Webb Austin Road Elementary Did You Know? F ormer staff members Frank Hamilton, Phil Redmond, Owen Corcoran and Brian Pepper later became superintendents in various school districts. John McLay went on to be an assistant superintendent. B I ev Christensen, who later became a school trustee, author of three books and a reporter for the Prince George Citizen, was the school’s first secretary. n 1983 Austin Road student Sheri Rempel, and the other children in her class, received a letter from Santa that was delivered by Canada Post. Her letter began: “Dear Sheri, Mrs. Claus and I were delighted when your letter arrived telling us how good and helpful you’ve been this year.” I n 1988, nine-year old Bradley Ezelyk was the youngest of over 300 runners who carried the Olympic torch as it made its way across the country prior to the Winter Olympics in Calgary. From Santa Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen December 16, 1983 Torch Bearer Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen December 19, 1987 Austin Road Elementary I n September 2002, Newberry Brothers Contracting donated their equipment and time to remove debris, plus to level and prepare the site for Austin Road’s new adventure playground. I n 2002, Chantal Mitchell, a nine-year old student at Austin Road Elementary, won a nationwide short story contest put on by Staples Business Depot. Her story was one of 204 stories, one winning entry from each Staples store in Canada, published in a book that was sold at Staples with the proceeds donated to a local school. Chantal received a $50 gift certificate and a copy of the book. Her story, “If I Were A Monkey”, was about a monkey that gets lost while looking for his aunt and uncle. I n 1994-95, students from Ms. Coltman’s Division 6 Social Studies class embarked on a historical project that connected their artwork with students from Alberta, BC, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and Washington State. Under the direction of Bruce Haig, the Historical Researcher for Lethbridge, Alberta, the students learned about the Canadian explorer and artist Paul Kane. They demonstrated their knowledge by creating a series of sketches based on Paul Kane’s travels in the northwest from 1845-1848. In turn, Bruce Haig compiled a book that included their sketches entitled: Explorers of the Canadian West: Paul Kane 1810-1871. Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen December 2002 Paul Kane Sketchbook Project 1994-95 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Austin Road Elementary actiVities Austin Road had many activities in which students could participate. Some highlights were Intermediate Careers Day, school musicals like “Clowns”, Art Shows organized by teacher Mike Bertucci, Peer Mediators, school dances, Friday Fitness Day, Monster Readers, the Intermediate Ski Trip and the Geography Challenge. Austin Road Peer Mediators 1996 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Austin Road Geography Club 1996 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Austin Road held Science Fairs for many years. In 1992, there were 49 entries and the judges were most impressed with the depth of thinking and the quality of the work. Five entries were chosen to represent the school at the Zone Science Fair and, from that group, Valerie Thacker was awarded a Gold standing. She went on to the Central Interior Science Exhibition at CNC and was awarded a silver medal for her project. Superintendent Phil Redmond Judging Science Fair 1996 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Electromagnetics by Valerie Thacker 1992 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Austin Road Elementary sPorts The team name for Austin Road changed over the years. In the late 1980’s, they were the Austin Road Astros. Then in the 1990’s, they became the Austin Road Rhinos. Their final team name was the Austin Road Royals with a bulldog as their mascot. Austin Road students had the opportunity to play extra-curricular team sports such as volleyball, floor hockey and basketball. Students also participated in a number of district sporting events over the years, including cross-country running, the relays at Massey/Masich Place and track and field meets. Team Shirts 2000’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Boys’ Floor Hockey Team 1986-87 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Girls’ Volleyball Team 1989-90 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Austin Road Elementary commUnitY garDen ProJect In 2005, Trish Bella, Austin Road’s Parent Advisory Council Chairperson, spearheaded a proposal to create a community garden in the outdoor courtyard at the school. They received $775.00 in “seed money” from a local Rotary to buy containers, soil, seeds, plants and plant food. Spruce Capital Feeds offered their expertise on selecting supplies and seeds and also supported the project through discounted prices on supplies purchased by the school. This project allowed students to experience the feeling of accomplishment upon harvesting foods that they had nurtured. They were introduced to the concepts of organic farming and gardening plus environmental responsibility. They incorporated the REAPS composting program by having the grade one class raise worms. The first phase of the garden contained salad greens, radishes, herbs and strawberries that were harvested for a “Friendship Salad” in June. A local beekeeper brought a mobile hive and students learned about the role the bees have in the success of a garden. Other crops such as corn, peas, potatoes and carrots were harvested in the fall, after being tended by teachers and parent volunteers over the summer. Teachers incorporated visits to the garden into their classroom curriculum in areas such as science, health, writing and art. The school was invited to display the garden at the PG Exhibition in August 2006. School grown produce was entered into a number of categories and won one 1st place ribbon, three 2nd place ribbons and one 3rd place ribbon. Pride in their accomplishment was evident when some students visited the booth and spoke to the public about their garden. Austin Road Community Garden 2005 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Austin Road’s PGX Ribbons 2006 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Austin Road Elementary LAST STAFF 2009-2010 Mr. St. Denis, Principal Mrs. Mummery, Secretary Mrs. Stewart, Grade 5 Mrs. Johnson, Grade 4/5 Mrs. Chadwick/Mrs. Wyer, Grade 4 Mrs. Berger, Grade 3/4 Mrs. Wiebe, Grade 3 Mrs. Hyland, Grade 2 Mrs. Radway, Grade 1/2 Mrs. Anderson, Grade 1 Mrs. McLachlan, Kindergarten (AM) Mrs. Beach, Kindergarten (PM) Mme Dunn, Grade 4/5 French Immersion Mme Laura Maloney/Mme Mitchell, Grade 2/3 French Immersion Mme Dougherty, Grade 1/2 French Immersion Mme Lisa Maloney/Mme White, Grade K/1 French Immersion Mme Le, Kindergarten French Immersion Mrs. Haughian, Music Mrs. Bracey, English Learning Assistance Teacher Mme Laura Maloney, French Learning Assistance Teacher Mrs. MacNeil, Teacher-Librarian/Tech Austin Road Staff 2010 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Austin Road Elementary Memories Superintendent Dave Todd recruited widely to staff the new school but when the staff arrived a bulldozer was still clearing the site. The new school operated on a shift basis utilizing the gymnasium’s floor and stage plus six classrooms at Kelly Road Secondary and the four classrooms at the Kelly Road Primary Annex. On moving day the following spring, some of the female staff sank so deeply into the mud that surrounded the school that several pairs of high-heeled shoes were lost forever. The staff had exceptional energy and commitment. Thirty were from Commonwealth countries, mainly Australia and New Zealand, with six from Canada. Many of the original teachers went on to become administrators. There was also tremendous community support from people such as Shirley Gratton. One teacher would regularly update us on her latest driving transgression. After she removed the stairs from her new house, she did manage to master the difference between drive and reverse. On the morning she created a third northbound lane on the Nechako Hill, she was hit head on by a vehicle coming down the hill. She was still out cold two hours later in the Prince George hospital. Frank Hamilton 2013, former principal I loved my time at Austin Road. It was a dual track school (French and English) with 475 enthusiastic students. The staff was dedicated to children and worked very hard to ensure that both cultural realities were respected and celebrated! Extra-curricular offerings in athletics, such as cross-country running, volleyball, basketball, relays and track and field, were plentiful. Fine arts was also a school focus as the school enjoyed the residency of a professional artist/teacher who provided prep for most staff. As a result, quality creative assignments were displayed in hallways and classrooms. Our library was very well used and the yearly book fair was a highlight for the neighbourhood. Guest speakers and authors provided enriching learning to supplement curriculum offerings in the classroom. The school’s Parent Advisory Council was very active. Monthly meetings boasted 20+ participants and parents were supportive of learning, as evidenced through financial grants for learning resources to each teacher. In addition, the PAC sponsored a school-wide evening fundraising “fun night” and initiated family dances that were well attended. Brian Pepper 2013, former principal Baldy Mountain Elementary 1958-1964 LOCATION This school was located at the Baldy Hughes American Air Radar Base west of Prince George on the Blackwater Road. Bal dy M ount ain S chool 20 07 ORIGINS OF THE SCHOOL Courtesy of Pat Sexsmith, retired teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection A small community was built around the Air Base including a school. The school was a two-room structure, flat roofed, with washroom facilities between the rooms. It had desks, shelves, blackboards and supplies for teaching, but did not include the use of the gymnasium or any facilities that were used by the soldiers. Mrs. Norma Hassel was the first teacher. Students from the Clear Lake sawmill camp, 8 miles down the road, were included in the school’s population as well as children of the base personnel. AIR FORCE BASE The Baldy Hughes Air Base was part of the Distant Early Warning (DEW) line built in 1952 during the cold war with Russia. It was part of the Pine Tree Line and was originally funded by the United States Air Force. Major Kenneth Coleman was the American commander. The Canadian Air Force took over the base in 1963 and it remained operational with the radar domes scanning the skies until 1986. It was part of the NORAD system of defense. Baldy Mountain Elementary The enrollment varied from 12 students in 1963 to 37 in 1962 when two teachers were employed. Only primary grades were offered in 1963 and 1964 as most of the Canadian forces preferred to live in Prince George and commute to the base. When the school closed in 1964, children in the area were bussed to Beaverly Elementary School. ENROLLMENT YEAR 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 GRADES # 1-7 22 1-7 16 1-7 22 1-6 32 1-7 37 1-3 12 1-3 13 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) S TAFF Mrs. Norma Hassel 1958-1964 Mrs . Pat Sexsmith 1962-1963 Did You Know? T HERE WAS A VERY ACTIVE PARENT TEACHERS' ASSOCIATION (PTA) AT THE SCHOOL DURING THE 1960ʼS. THEIR ACTIVITIES WERE REPORTED IN THE PRINCE GEORGE CITIZEN UNDER THE BYLINE “BALDY HUGHES REPORT”. THIS GROUP SPONSORED PARTIES, PICNICS AND OTHER EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES FOR THE STUDENTS. I N 1961, THE SCHOOL WAS ASKED TO ELECT A QUEEN AND TWO ATTENDANTS TO RIDE IN THE DOMINION DAY SIMON FRASER PARADE IN PRINCE GEORGE. THIS WAS A GREAT HONOR FOR SO SMALL A RURAL SCHOOL. S CHOOL DISTRICT NO. 57 (PRINCE GEORGE) IS STILL INVOLVED THROUGH THE CENTRE FOR LEARNING ALTERNATIVES IN SUPPLYING AN EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM FOR ADULT CLIENTS OF AN ADDICTIONS REHABILITATION FACILITY NOW OPERATING AT THE SAME LOCATION. Baldy Mountain Elementary Memories Some of my memories of the Air Base children were of their respect for the teachers. Generally, they were eager to learn, to jump into any project and give it their all. I did see a smattering of class structure, in the hierarchy of the officers’ families and the non-commissioned soldiers’ families……on the whole they got along well. There were several children from black families, who were well accepted by their peers. 1962 was one of the years when there was a lot of turmoil in the US over desegregation. Discrimination was not an issue at the school. One of the year’s distinct memories was the alarm over the Bay of Pigs and the Cuban Missile crisis. When it was at its height, we had to identify ourselves at the Guard House. You could see the tension in the students…..their country could soon be at war, and they were military children. Another memory is the respect they had for John Kennedy. They used the part of his speech where he told Americans not to ask what their country could do for them but what they could do for their country as a mantra, often quoting it or writing it out in their scribblers. Pat Sexsmith. Recollections of the Air Base School. SD 57 Education Heritage Collection. Ba l dy Hug hes A irb as e Gatehous e 19 64 Courtesy of John Colburn www.pinetreeline.org/photos Bear Lake - Hart Lake Elementary 1955-2006 LOCATION B ear Lak e El ement a ry 19 80’ s The school was located 80 km north of Prince George, to the right, off Highway 97. SD 57 Education Heritage Collection MISSION STATEMENT We strive to meet studentsʼ individual needs allowing children to reach their full potential and become lifelong and adaptable learners. HISTORY Originally, there was a one-room school near the railway tracks that served the community of Bear Lake. From 1955-1964, this building and additions to it, were known as Hart Lake School. Enrollment fluctuated from 15 students in 1955 to 43 students in 1964. A teacherage was available during these years. The school was renamed Bear Lake in 1965. In 1970, a new school was built with an addition; a gymnasium was added in 1976. Canfor and La Pas sawmills employed many of the students’ parents. As very few parents had a post secondary education, the school opened a GED night school class in 1991 with an enrollment of 14 adult students. Bea r La ke Stud ents & Sta ff 200 5 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Bear Lake - Hart Lake Elementary ENROLLME N T YEAR 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 GRADES # 1-7 147 1-7 139 K-7 127 K-7 79 K-7 45 K-7 41 K-7 41 K-7 31 K-7 13 ENROLLMENT When Kerry Lake and Summit Lake schools were closed in the mid 1960’s, the students were transferred to Bear Lake. The school enrollment began dropping in the 1980’s as sawmill activity in the area declined and the highway to Prince George was improved. During the last several years of operation, a principal was shared with Salmon Valley Elementary. There were only 6 students enrolled for September 2006 when the school closed in June 2006. These students were bussed to Salmon Valley Elementary. P R I N C I PAL S Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) 1970-2006 Brya n Ki nes ha nk o Ray Giff i n Gervin Ha lli day Rust y R us temey er Je nn i fe r John ston Joh n McGlad der y Bruc e Wa l ke y Dia n e Ki kker t Joh n Mac ki e Eri c Dod d An j ul a C or bin Rob Ho w a rds on Lu c St. Den is B ear Lak e Staff 1 979 R ay G i f f i n , te ac h e r & p r i n c ip a l SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Bear Lake - Hart Lake Elementary Did You Know? P ORTABLES WERE SHIPPED TO BEAR LAKE DURING THE HIGH POPULATION YEARS. THESE BECAME KNOWN AS HARRY BAILEY SPECIALS. HARRY BAILEY WAS THE MAINTENANCE SU- PERVISOR FOR THE SCHOOL DISTRICT AT THE TIME AND WAS KNOWN TO BE QUITE A CHARACTER. ON THE WAY NORTH FROM PRINCE GEORGE, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE HIGHWAY BRIDGE RAILINGS WERE TOO HIGH FOR THE DECK OF THE TRUCK CARRYING THE PORTABLES. HARRY CUT THE RAILINGS OFF THE BRIDGES TO GET THE TRAILER ACROSS. T HE BEAR LAKE GYMNASIUM ROOF COLLAPSED INTO THE VACANT SCHOOL IN MID-FEBRUARY, 2007. THE WEIGHT OF A WINTERʼS EXCESSIVE SNOWFALL WAS THE CAUSE OF THIS FRIDAY AFTERNOON CAVE-IN. THE IMMEDIATE AREA AROUND THE SCHOOL WAS CLOSED OFF AS AS- BESTOS FROM THE CEILING DOTTED THE SNOW BANKS. THIS INCIDENT CREATED QUESTIONS ABOUT DISTRICT NEGLECT OF CLOSED SCHOOLS AND THE DANGERS OF ASBESTOS IN ALL SCHOOLS. Cl a ssr oom Ac tivities 2 001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Bear Lake - Hart Lake Elementary BEAR LAKE NEWS The Bear Lake School Club C anfor Tour 199 5 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection will hold a Masquerade Dance Saturday at Summit Lake Hall. Fines for persons not in costumes. Music by Sexsmith Orchestra. Refreshments available. Proceeds for the Bear Lake children’s Christmas Tree and school sports fund. October 27, 1967 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen S liding a t G opher Hil l 199 6 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Sc ienc e Fair 199 6 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Beaver River Elementary 1925-1945 LOCATION Beaver River school was located 16 km east of McBride, north off Highway 16 on the Holmes Forest Service Road. The area was also called Holmes River. B e a ve r Ri v e r S ch o o l 19 90’ s HISTORY Monroe Collection Robson Valley Story During the 1925-1926 school year, a classroom was held in the Erwin farmhouse with eleven students in Grade 1-7. Miss Isabella Walls was the first teacher. By August of 1926, Tom Patton and several volunteers from the community built a log schoolhouse. It was named the Beaver River District School. STAFF Miss Isabella Walls Miss Nellie Owen Miss M.C. Hurst One of the outstandMiss A.M. Gillespie ing features of the Miss E.G. Nash building was a 45Mr. Lloyd G. Watkins gallon steel drum used as a barrel Miss Millicent Crowe heater with a six inch Miss Lillian Martin stovepipe running Miss A. Hynam down the centre of Mrs. Margaret Rhodes the room. Drinking Miss Francis Taggert water came from a B e a ve r Ri v e r C l ass 19 38 Fern Sansom Collection Robson Valley Story small brook in a shallow ravine close to the school. The school closed in 1945. The nine remaining students were bussed to McBride on transportation provided by the McBride School District. Beaver River Elementary Sc hool Cor res pondenc e & B oar d M inutes 1 943 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Beaver River Elementary Memories The teacher’s desk was generally located to the right of the heater beside a window. This put the teacher in the commanding position of sitting behind the students, who were seated in three rows of desks facing the blackboards, on either side of the chimney... A row of desks was fastened to two-byfour runners so they could be quickly stacked at the side of the room, clearing the floor for school dances or concerts… Sometimes, if there was only one student in a grade, that student might be bumped up one grade, making the teacher’s load a bit lighter. Our school library was small, sporadically supplied from the big city (Victoria), but ever so exciting. Two or three times a year we would receive our supply of books. These would arrive in a large wooden box in early September. The journey from the city to the town of McBride was by train, and from town to our country school it was a bit more challenging. Often books would arrive by wagon or sleigh behind a team of horses. Each book was carefully lifted out, and thoroughly discussed and observed, before being placed on the bookshelf at the side of the room. After about three months a new box of books would arrive and the old ones would be sent back. The teacher’s cabin, like all other rural residences in the area, was not equipped with electricity or modern plumbing. The lavatory was an outdoor toilet located among the trees behind the cabin. One day the teacher took the ashes out of the stove, a regular weekly chore with a small cook range. She carried the box by the handle out to the biffy and dumped the ashes down the hole. I clearly remember the excitement when it was discovered the biffy was engulfed in flames. You don’t call a plumber when that happens. The big family three-holer across the yard had to accommodate another customer until the burned biffy could be replaced. Lloyd Jeck. In the Shadow of the Peaks; Rocky Mountain Tales. Majeck Publishing. Penticton, 2000 B e a ve r Ri v e r T e a ch e r ag e 1 999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Bednesti Elementary 1931-1933 LOCATION The school was located off Highway 16 West near Bednesti Lake midway between Prince George and Vanderhoof. The name “Bednesti” translated from the Carrier language is “satisfied char”. HISTORY In 1931, the Bednesti School was built near Squirrel Creek to serve the Hoff and Scott families. One family lived at Bednesti, which was five miles away from the school, and the other lived at the train station in Isle Pierre, which was four miles away from the school. The enrollment was nine students in Grade 1 – 7. Bed nesti Sc hool 193 2 Courtesy of the Hoff family SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Bednesti Elementary The one-room log school stayed open for only two years with Miss Lauretta Mae McCall as the teacher. It was her first job after receiving her Provincial Normal School certificate at age nineteen. Miss McCall received room and board from the Hoff family for $30 per month and walked the four miles to school each morning and then trudged back to her log cabin at the Hoffs after school. Her annual salary was $780. Bednesti Ca Book 1931-1933 Dec. 15 M is s Mc Ca ll S ta n di n g Ne xt to h e r C ab i n 193 2 Nohern Hardwa Co. Aiight Hear 5.50 12 lengths pi 3.00 Tar .60 Damr .25 Brm 1.15 Dustpan .25 Pail .60 Dipr .40 Wa basin .65 Galvanized iron 1.30 2 chai 4.50 Paid by cheque No. 3 Courtesy of the Hoff family SD 57 Education Heritage Collection 18.20 Bednesti Elementary Memories I had my own cabin to live in and ate my meals with the family. Mrs. Hoff always insisted that the teacher should have butter with her meals. That was a luxury. She had fixed up the cabin beautifully. There was a small heater, a lamp and a bureau made from an old orange crate, then covered, and she had put up some pretty curtains. At forty below zero or so I used to wear breeches, boots, a coat, scarves, and a sort of helmet to try to keep out the cold. In winter, the lunches would freeze on our way to school. The sandwiches, often filled with bear meat, venison and prairie chicken meat, had to be thawed around the woodstove before eating. The year’s big event for students was the arrival of books from the Victoria Open Shelf Library. The Big Day for teachers was the annual Teachers’ Convention held in Prince George with teachers from as far away as Quesnel attending. These were the days when the British Columbia Teachers’ Federation fees were just $5 a year. Lauretta Mae McCall, teacher Courtesy of Torrey A. McCall (brother) SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Hoff Chil dr en Next to Ba rr el Heater 193 2 Courtesy of the Hoff family SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Bend Elementary 1925-1946 LOCATION Bend Elementary School was located near a CNR station on the Fraser River, 110 km east of Prince George and 5 km from Dome Creek. STAFF Bend Stationhous e 19 34 Ca rl Bens on, s tudent The Exploration Place 2003.28.1 HISTORY The area was named after the ninety-degree turn in the Canadian National Railway tracks at this location. The first teacher was Miss Alfreda Larsen, who started in 1925. The school became part of the McBride School District in 1945, but it was closed in 1946 with only 11 students in Grades 1 -8. A controversy developed over the amalgamation of Bend School with Dome Creek School; Bend was scheduled to be reopened in 1948 but the McBride School District had problems finding a qualified teacher. Miss Alfreda Larsen Miss Helen Lentsmann Miss Eileen Avery Miss F.N. Cairns Miss Margaret Bogle Mrs. R. Larson Miss E.E. Rogers BEND The children of Bend School have $230.75 for their total of War Savings Stamps and Bonds since September. November 16, 1944 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Bend Elementary B end Fina ncia l Ledg er 1 936 -193 7 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Blackburn Junior Secondary 2233 South Blackburn Road, Prince George 1967-2002 “Growing together by learning together” Mission Statement To enable the school community to succeed in an ever-changing world by providing a safe, challenging environment that promotes caring and respect and fosters personal confidence, motivation and discipline in the pursuit of life-long learning. Blackburn Junior after three buildings completed late 1960s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History Blackburn Junior Secondary was named in honour of the Blackburn family, a well-established and longtime family that farmed and lived in the Blackburn area. The Blackburn family was closely involved with the school. They established and presented the annual Blackburn award at the school’s award ceremonies. Prior to January 1964, elementary aged children in the Blackburn area attended Blackburn Elementary School while high school students were bussed to school in the city. Blackburn Elementary burned to the ground in January 1964 and by September the construction of a new elementary/secondary school was underway across from today’s Blackburn Elementary. The architect for the project was Allan Greenwell, a young architect who went on to design many other schools in Prince George and Quesnel. During construction, the junior high school students were bussed into Prince George. The opening of the new school brought together the grade 1-10 students that had been housed in Blackburn Junior Secondary portables and other Prince George schools. At this time, the school was called Blackburn Elementary Junior Secondary School. The upper building housed the elementary students and the lower building accommodated the high school students. The third building, housing the school gymnasium, change rooms, staff room, and office areas, was not yet complete. The school staff room and office were housed in a temporary trailer. In 1967 the elementary students moved across the street to their new school and the school was renamed Blackburn Junior Secondary School, a school for students in grades 8-10. Blackburn Junior then used the three separate buildings. The upper building was for the use of social studies, English, and French teaching. The lower building accommodated home economics, business, and industrial arts classrooms on the first floor and science and math classrooms and the library on the second floor. The last building to be completed, also on the upper level, held the gymnasium, staffroom and school office. The school then remained unchanged until 1988. The school was connected with open but covered breezeways. Going from one area of the school to another in the depths of winter required hardy students and staff; they faced temperatures as cold as -45 C, wind, snow, slippery stairs, ice, mud and dirt. The breezeways were said to look like a “broken down railway station”. The configuration of the school was based on a “California” model, not a practical design for such extreme weather. The school design had been developed as a fire safety measure; if one area of the school caught fire, the fire would be unlikely to spread to the other buildings. To address the lack of a common student area and the challenges of accessing the buildings by going outside, Viking Construction built a school foyer in 1988. The school had opened to little fanfare but the foyer received more attention. It was opened in the spring of 1989 by School District #57 superintendent, and former Blackburn Junior principal, Jim Imrich, as well as the principal, Doug Forrest, and former principal, Ron Bacon. There was also a ribbon cutting ceremony with Doug Forrest and a student, Christine Jakovcic, doing the honours. The project connected the school buildings with a closed-in structure and added a school entrance/lobby so that students no longer had to gather or eat their lunches in the hallways. The foyer was noisy; when the lounge area was filled with students, the sound was deafening. With this renovation Blackburn Junior was now 4,721 square metres in area. Entrance after the breezeway was enclosed 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Blackburn Junior Secondary To attend this school, many students were bussed from distant and outlying areas: Buckhorn, Hixon, Red Rock, Willow River, Upper Fraser and Giscome. Students had to rise early to catch their busses and, because of this, the school continued to have a recess break, even after the elementary students had moved to their new school, so that the students could rest and eat. From 1988 to 1999 Blackburn Junior continued to function as intended. When students went on to grade 11, they were bussed to Prince George Secondary School. In 1999 things changed. An audit report was released in December 1999 and the future of the school was in question. Although the school location was rated 75/100, the audit report rated the 34 year-old facility poorly, scoring 24.82/100. Some aspects the report cited as concerns regarding this rural school were: • • • • • • • • • Weathered with masonry cracks, no insulating values, rotting beam supports, corroded plumbing, no sprinklers Foundations were failing Poor ventilation, especially in the industrial education classrooms, science labs, gymnasium, counselling offices and administration area Bursting water pipes with flooding Frost heaving Presence of exterior asbestos in the roof fascia panels Poor handicapped access Doors that did not meet code Mold under the gymnasium These audit report conclusions did not bode well for the future of this school. At the same time, the population of the school was declining. During its enrollment heyday, in 1976, Blackburn Junior had a population of 509 students. In 2001, the population had declined to 283 students and there was a prediction that this figure could drop even further. After the results of the audit were released, SD 57 began to study the alternatives: renovating the school, replacing the school in some form (junior or middle school) or closing and demolishing the school. Between January 2000 and May 2002, there was a great deal of controversy regarding the future of the school. In January 2001, a proposal for a middle school was presented to the public and the parents wanted a school to remain in the community. However, in May 2002, it was announced by SD 57 that the closure of the school would result in savings of $343,700/year for the school district and it was announced that Blackburn Junior would be closed, students would be bussed to Prince George Secondary and the school would be demolished. The school had grown to be a thriving rural junior secondary but its doors were closed in July 2002. By May 2003 the school had been razed to the ground. Currently, all that remains on the site is an overgrown field of grass. Blackburn Junior Secondary ENROLLMENT YEAR 1967 1971 1976 1979 1984 1989 1994 1998 2001 GRADE 8-10 8-10 8-10 8-10 8-10 8-10 8-10 8-10 8-10 # 336 438 509 419 357 305 346 391 283 Former principal Hank Bugara at the school during demolition May 8, 2003 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) PRINCIPALS Frank Holmes Bill Fisher Art Erasmus Davis Vawter Hank Bugara Jim Imrich Jack Harrower Ron Bacon Doug Forrest Bruce Jansen Robin Temoin VICE PRINCIPALS Monty Woodley Terry Rogers Roy Hooker Bill Bateman Brian Toll Bonnie Chappell Robin Dielissen Jim De Wolf Blackburn Junior Secondary EARLY STAFF Staff 1978 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Noreen Knaggs Lynn Spraggs Sylvia Rogers Mrs. Tait Bernard Keely Otto Reich Jim Reilly Norman Schuler Gary Hanik Rick Knight Glen Aston Bill Bateman Mrs. Glen Blunt Joe Burke Norman Schuler Dora George Evi Vesik, SFU student teacher ACTIVITIES Blackburn Junior was always a hub of activity. The school was relatively isolated and students and staff had to create their own school culture. Many activities contributed to the school’s close and warm environment such as Photography Club, Agriculture Club, Newspaper Club, Yearbook Club, Hiking Club, Guitar Club, Automobile Model Club, Chess Club, Cheerleading Club, Drag Racing Club, Library Club and Student Council. Cheerleaders 1986-1987 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Student Council 1978-1979 Michael Ferguson, teacher sponsor and Barbie Hamilton, president SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Teachers arranged trips to Alberta, B.C.’s lower mainland and to Europe; they also organized student skiing trips. Blackburn Junior Secondary Drama teacher, Dave Murguly, produced a number of plays such as “The Wizard of Oz”, “Peter Pan” and “M.A.S.H”. Other events included Science Fairs, Christmas concerts, Spirit Week, Milk Run, 30 Hour Famine, decade theme weeks, tricycle races, plus oatmeal and mud wrestling. Blackburn Junior’s agriculture club was popular due to the school’s country location. To raise funds for their yearend horseback riding trip, the students and sponsor teacher raised and sold rabbits. There were always interesting odours coming from the science classroom where they based their rabbit business. The class also castrated cats to raise funds. Castrating animals was a run of the mill activity for farm kids and they felt very competent to perform the procedure. This lucrative activity had to be stopped when Prince George veterinarians learned about what was happening and expressed their concerns. Bunnies and Boys 1982-1983 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection An event that brought students and staff together was “Snow Days” where activities were held outside in the dead of winter. One activity required team members to attach themselves with ropes to two long 2x4 pieces of lumber and then run in unison to the finish line without falling. This was something that many teams did not accomplish! The drag racing team competed against other schools at the North Central Raceway on Chief Lake Road. Luckily, the track drivers did not require a legal license, as most students attending Blackburn Junior would not have been old enough to have one! Blackburn’s team car in the foreground at the North Central Raceway track 1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Blackburn Junior Secondary ATHLETICS Athletics had a proud history at Blackburn Junior. The teams were called the Thunderbirds and the Thunderettes. Most years each grade fielded a basketball and volleyball team for both boys and girls. The teams were developed to a level where they were very skilled and successful due to the nature of the program. Brian Toll, a long time staff member and coach, reported that the sports program was purposely designed to create highly competitive teams as athletes moved through the program. For 17 years, Brian also coached a grade 8-10 combined boys’ and girls’ rugby team that successfully competed against grade 11-12 students. Rugby 1986-1987 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Thunderbird mascot 1999-2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Shafeed Rahman, an industrial arts teacher who worked at the school for many years, started a girls’ soccer team. As an immigrant from Fiji where soccer was a major sport, it seemed a natural fit for him In the 1970’s, not many girls were playing soccer, but under his tutelage, Mr. Rahman was able to field a team that played competitively against senior students. Mr. Rahman was also a major contributor to the success of the Prince George Youth Soccer Association and was inducted into the Prince George Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of his contribution to Prince George soccer. Girls’ Soccer Team 1982-1983 Shafeed Rahman, coach SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Blackburn Junior Secondary Did You Know? T eacher Al Curtis spearheaded the Student Incentive Plan (SIP) that created incentives for good behaviour. This program, started in 1982, was very effective and generated an atmosphere of positive student conduct. B T B ill Bateman worked at the school from 1965-1991 making him the longest serving teacher/vice-principal. eacher and vice-principal, Brian Toll, played hockey for the Prince George Mohawks, a team that has been inducted into the Prince George Sports Hall of Fame. efore Prince George had a university Dave Harrison, the teacher-librarian, felt it was important to expose students to some post-secondary options. This required a weeklong trip to the lower mainland and enabled students to tour UBC, SFU and UVic. Students also toured the southern sights. He also organized student trips to Europe. F rom the school’s opening until the mid 1980’s, Blackburn Junior had a youthful staff. Many teachers began their careers there. Along with the business of education, a number of romances occurred and at least six led to marriages. E ven the school’s long time secretary, Dora George, had a marriage tie to the school; her son, Brian, married a Blackburn Junior teacher, Rhonda Pryde. Rhonda became known as Mrs. George No. 2 in the school. Memories In September 1968, via Montreal and Jasper, I arrived in Prince George from the outskirts of London, England to take on my first teaching position. I arrived by train in the early hours of the morning with another British woman who was moving here as well. We eventually made our way to the school board office and people in the office helped us find furnished accommodation. Then it was time to acquaint myself with Blackburn Junior Secondary School. On my first day of school, I showed up for work in my British mini skirt. At that time, female students were not allowed to wear pants and all wore long skirts. I was whistled at and quickly learned that I had to modify my wardrobe! The Beatles were all the rage then and I was asked if I had met the band from Liverpool. I was also asked if I’d had tea with the Queen! I taught childcare, clothing and textiles and foods. As well, cooking and food service was a class designed specifically for boys, as at that time home economics was a subject that only girls participated in. The textiles classroom was designed without electrical outlets for sewing machines and irons so a web of extension cords ran overhead and down to the equipment. I remember a time when a vile odour was evident in the home economics area. Principal Hank Bugara came down to investigate and discovered a Blackburn Junior Secondary dead cat in one of the heating ducts. Like all home economics teachers at Blackburn Junior, I also faced a constant infestation of mice. While at the school, I met Bill Bateman and we were married in 1971. In 1974, I left the school to be with our children. Lynda (Smith) Bateman 2017, former teacher I began teaching at Blackburn Junior in September 1976 after two years as a shop teacher at Connaught Junior Secondary. I came to SD 57 from the University of Toronto and was hired by Jack Harrower. I remember many cars getting stuck in the school’s driveway and ditches during the winter. Many teachers and students helped lift cars. I have fond memories of the school’s rugby team, the Blackburn Barbarians, that was begun by teacher Gerry Karpenko. I took on the coaching responsibilities and led the team for 17 years. This was an elite team, respected by other schools in Prince George and the province, despite the athletes only being in grades 8, 9 and 10. In fact, the team won the city championships every year except for one. That was the year that Lakewood Junior Secondary School had an extraordinary athlete named Matt Pearce on their team. Despite the Barbarians’ plan to contain Matt’s play, they were unable to do this and Lakewood came out victorious. The team traveled throughout B.C. and even played with the University of Victoria team during two of their practices. I remember how strongly his boys wanted to pursue post-secondary education after that experience. Many of the team members went on to play rugby for Team B.C. The 30-32 member team, some of them girls, would run training clinics at Blackburn’s feeder elementary schools to generate interest. Brian Toll 2017, retired teacher and vice-principal I was at Blackburn the day its doors opened as an elementary junior school in September 1965. I had a chemistry degree and moved to Prince George to teach on a dare without any teacher training. I taught metalwork and woodwork in the industrial wing of the lower building. The floor of my shop was made out of asphalt. As oil leaked on the floor, it became very soft. Blackburn was also built on a bog with clay. This combination of structural issues was not good. Part way through the first year of school, equipment that sat on the asphalt such as the joiner, drill presses and a circular saw began to slant as the equipment and benches began to settle into the asphalt. I was not impressed! The floor eventually had to be replaced. I appreciated the honesty of BBJS students; if a student was asked if they did something wrong, they always admitted to the deed. When I moved to another school in 1992, I was shocked when the students lied and would not admit to their deeds. Bill Bateman 2017, retired vice-principal Blackburn Junior Secondary I started teaching at Blackburn Junior in September 1977 as Linda Humphries but later married and became Linda McLeod. Upon receiving a telegram informing me that I was hired, I moved to Prince George to become Blackburn Junior’s French teacher. I appreciated the country view out of my classroom windows. I enjoyed working with the students and found that they were honest. I sometimes felt like the school was seen as an afterthought and was not given much attention, not that it was a bad thing! I remember “Snow Days” and assembling a staff team to participate in the “skiing” race. The school seemed to endure a lack of supplies; the textbooks I used were often out-of-date and when I got a cassette tape recorder to use during French lessons, I thought this was a huge technological event! I also remember the foul odour that overtook the air in the spring that was the manure produced by the chickens at Veeken’s Poultry Farm, a business just down the road from the school. Linda (Humphries) McLeod 2017, retired teacher I started teaching at Blackburn Junior in 1988. Besides teaching, I was involved in supporting school activities, such as the newspaper club that published the Blackburn Street Journal. English classes generated much of the published work. Like most students and teachers, I was grateful to have the outdoor breezeway that connected the three school buildings replaced by closed in halls and the entrance/ foyer. Principal Bruce Jansen and Blackburn Elementary principal, Art Webb, developed a Year 2000 project in 1991/92 that allowed two teachers from each school to plan curriculum for grades 6 to 9. The project focused on the development of a forestry textbook suitable for grade 5 students. An incident that stands out for me was when two students built and set off a small “bomb” in the boys’ washroom after they read “The Pigman”. Elizabeth Woods 2017, retired teacher Public Speaking Contestants 1997-1998 Elizabeth Woods, sponsor SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Home Economics class 2000-2001 Anita Dougherty, teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Blackburn Junior Secondary I taught at Blackburn Junior from 1992 until the day the school closed in June 2002. I married a former student of Blackburn Junior, Richard Dougherty, who later became a high school principal in SD 57. I enjoyed teaching the “country” kids and felt that the school atmosphere was more like an elementary school. One day, in -30 degree weather, the fire alarm sounded. This unplanned alarm proved to be the real thing. While outside we could see dense black smoke pouring out of the art room. The fire originated in an art room trash can. Many staff and students were concerned that they were about to lose their school but the fire was quickly contained and the smoke cleared. I felt that the staff was very hurt, sad and dejected when it became apparent that Blackburn Junior was closing and the closure was almost anticlimactic. I recall Jill Bruce and myself being the last two staff members to walk out of the school at the end of the school year and both of us were overcome with sadness. Anita Dougherty 2017, retired teacher I only taught at BJSS for one year, 1979-1980. This was my first teaching position and some of my fondest teaching memories come from this brief home economics teaching assignment. The students were different; they were country kids. I remember teaching when the office PA system would interrupt my class looking for a student. It went something like this: “Is Tammy there?” “Yes.” “Please send her home. Her horse got out of the pasture and she has to look for him!” I would arrive at school some Monday mornings to fresh trout on my desk; a student had been fishing on the weekend and brought it in for me. I remember hearing talk of a student walkout. I told my students that it would be business as usual in my classes and if they were not there they would miss the chocolate chip cookie lab. The walkout happened but all my students came to class! Shopping for classroom groceries was an onerous task. I would shop at Woodward’s food floor, usually on a Saturday, and then deliver everything to the school. I had to carry bags of groceries through the breezeway which included a flight of stairs and, in the winter, this was even more challenging. Teaching in a country school, I could not whip out to pick up ingredients if I discovered I was short of something. When this did occur, I would run to the school custodian, Lorraine Sharan. If apples for a pie were needed, Lorraine would set out to find some. Where she found them, I don’t know, but I was grateful when Lorraine walked in with them. The home economics lab had a problem with mice. I remember teaching while watching a mouse scurry by! For sanitary reasons, all food had to be stored away from possible mouse contamination. All dry foods were stored in large unplugged chest freezers that mice could not access. Fumigation was a regular occurrence. I helped Shafeed Rahman coach the girls’ soccer team. The skills I learned were valuable when I went on to coach soccer at Prince George Secondary School and for the Prince George Youth Soccer Association. My warmest memories come from the time I spent with the staff. The staff was “thick”. We camped, skied, played golf, and celebrated together. The support from staff was always profound. During the time I was at Blackburn Junior, teachers had to balance their paper attendance registers monthly. The business teacher, Edee Richter, volunteered to balance mine each month and I was most grateful because I had trouble with this task. The warm and caring tone of the school was quite unique and I think of Blackburn Junior as the little school that could. Judy Polysou 2017, retired teacher Blackburn Junior Secondary Julianna Weisgarber, a grade 9 student, reflected on the school’s closure in this hand written passage in her yearbook: “All in all, it was a great year at Blackburn. When you’re 14, life can be confusing and very unfair. Sometimes you need a chance to be yourself, stand apart and succeed at something. Blackburn gave me those opportunities. In class and out, I learned a lot during my time at Blackburn, and I am sad that it is closing. I am grateful to the great students and staff of 2001-02 for helping me along in my voyage of self-discovery, I am what I am today partly because of you. There is nowhere else I would rather have spent my grade 8 and 9 years than at Blackburn. Thank you.” Julianna Weisgarber 2002, former student LAST STAFF Bill Berry Kim Broderick Jill Bruce Parrish Child David Cox Brad Cramer Anita Dougherty Tanja Gattrell Chris Gilbert Faye Hallett Nicole Hamel Steve Holland Ruth Johnson The last two administrative officers, principal Robin Temoin and vice-principal Jim DeWolf, both retired when Blackburn Junior shut its doors, making it a triple retirement. Al Curtis, a long time teacher at Blackburn Junior, now retired, composed a poem for the 1979-1980 school yearbook: Tracy Larson Carmen Murguly Dave Murguly Ken Wood Al Petrisor Al Rempel Ken Smith John Troy Anne Christensen Carol Drake Darlene Espenhain Mrs. Evans Brenda Foster Mrs. Marchuk Alison McConnel Ms. D. McNicol Brenda Naeth Mrs. Olsen Ms. Perry Wendy Stevenson Mrs. J. Turner Bonnie Weinand Eleanor Baldwin Colin Hurry ODE TO B.J.S.S. - December1979 O Blackburn School, you’re built upon a hill. For six long hours each day, to us, you’re “Mum”. Each morning, on the buses sitting still, From far and wide to get to you, we come. Last year, your floors were ugly green cement. The colour of your walls would make us faint. But now, to you, bright carpet has been sent And on your walls a shiny coat of paint Your halls are no longer a mess, With garbage strewn about in smelly heaps. Your sprucing up has made us change, I guess. For what a mother sows is what she reaps. But, Mother! When it’s forty-two below, The breezeway ‘tween your wings seems far to go. Bonnet Hill Elementary 1952-1964 LOCATION This school was located west of Prince George off Highway 16, on Giscome Road in the Pineview area. Bo n n e t Hi l l Gr ad e s 1 , 2 , 3 Cl as s 1 959 Mr s. S ch m e lz e l, t e a ch e r The Exploration Place 2004.3.557 HISTORY The original school was a portable classroom built to help reduce bussing in the farming area of Blackburn. In 1955, the school population had grown and school district maintenance added another portable classroom, at a cost of $5000, to the site. A two-room teacherage was also made available to attract teachers to this rural area. In 1956, the grade 5 and 6 students were moved to Airport Elementary. From 1957 to 1958, grades 1-6 were enrolled at Bonnet Hill and for 1959, grade 7 was added. In September 1960, a new four-room school was built two kilometres away and was renamed Blackburn Road Elementary to avoid confusion with the Bonnet Hill school. A one-room portable continued a primary program at the Bonnet Hill site until 1964 when all students were transferred to Blackburn Elementary. A neighbourhood pub has been built close to the original site. Several Bonnet Hill class photographs are on display in the Bonnet Hill Pub. Bonnet Hill Elementary ENROLL M E N T YEAR 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 GRADE # 1-6 24 1-5 22 1-5 28 1-6 56 1-4 58 1-6 67 1-6 105 1-7 105 1-2 30 1-2 24 1-2 31 1-2 27 1-2 30 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Bonnet Hil l G ra de 5- 6 C la ss 195 9 Ch a rl e s R. B e ll , te a ch e r The Exploration Place 2004.3.559 Did You Know? T HE BONNET HILL SCHOOL WAS USED BY THE BLACKBURN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION TO HOLD DANCES AND OTHER SOCIAL GATHERINGS. EVENTS AT THE SCHOOL WERE FRE- QUENTLY ADVERTISED IN THE “COMING EVENTS” COLUMN OF THE PRINCE GEORGE CITIZEN. D URING THE 1950’S, THERE WAS A GREAT DEAL OF CONTROVERSY ABOUT THE OVERLOAD- ING OF BONNET HILL BUSES WITH COURTESY STUDENTS WHO WERE CLOSE TO THE 3-MILE WALKING LIMIT. T HE “FIRST BONNET HILL GUIDES AND BROWNIES” MET AT BONNET HILL SCHOOL, AS DID THE “FIRST PINEVIEW CUB AND SCOUT TROOP”. THEY HELD FUNDRAISING ACTIVITIES SUCH AS RUMMAGE SALES AND WHIST DRIVES AT THE SCHOOL. A PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATION WAS FORMED IN 1954. THE OFFICERS ELECTED WERE: PRESIDENT, VERNON SCHOFIELD OF FERNDALE; SECRETARY, MRS. M. MACLAREN OF PINEVIEW; AND VICE-PRESIDENT, MISS N. LOEWS, TEACHER. B ONNET HILL SCHOOL WON THE PINEVIEW AREA TRACK MEET TROPHY, PRIMARY DIVISION IN 1960. Bonnet Hill Elementary Memories We were just out of Normal School, Minette Barlaug and I. Bonnet Hill had a teacherage giving us a place to live, so that is how we began our first year of teaching. The place had two rooms. It was heated with propane. The line ran up the outside of the door. We discovered that we had a porch light. A lead pipe could be lit and we had an outdoor light. Why we didn’t burn the place down is a mystery to this day. When we started school, I had grades 4-6 and Minette had grades 1-3. Before the end of September, they shipped the 5-6’s off to what was called the Airport School. So our grades were 1 & 2 for Minette and 3 & 4 for me. Everyone had a dog and one of those constantly visited the schoolyard when it was recess or noon. We finally asked the police to visit the dog’s owner as we were afraid he would bite one of the children. There was no herd law because farm animals were protected but not our 50 plus lambs! Lillian Coulling 2011, retired teacher Bonn et Hill G ra de 3 -4 C l ass 19 57 M rs . L. Coul l i ng, t eac herr SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Bonnet Hill Elementary SCHOOL HOCKEY Bonnet Hill School came out on top in last week’s hockey action. They won two of three games. One victory was a tight 2-1 decision over South Fort George despite South Fort’s Pat Irving, a female hockey artist. Pat scored her team’s only goal. Bonnet Hill’s second victory was a lopsided 11-2 decision over Buckhorn, who were playing their first game of the season. Bonnet Hill ran into King George V in their third game and went down to a resounding 6-0 defeat against the smooth passing Prince George team. Carl Potskin continued to pace the Bonnet Hill scorers. He received help from Melvin Smaaslet, Albert Solmonson, Leonard Forscutt, Gerald March, Chuck Hamilton and Bert Sawan. March 2, 1960 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen SPEEDING IN SCHOOL ZONE BRINGS $50 FINE Speeding through a school zone at Bonnet Hill School June 17 cost Kenneth Raymond Schell $50 and costs when he appeared in police court here Wednesday. June 20, 1957 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Bud Lake Elementary 1950-1956 HISTORY Bud Lake School was located 30 km northwest of Prince George on the road to Reid Lake. Although other schools were operating in the lakes area at this time, a new one-room school was constructed to accommodate “remote pupils” from the Reid Lake, Pylot Mountain, Chief Lake and Bud Lake areas. The school enrolled up to 15 students from Grades 1 - 8 during its six years of operation in the 1950’s. B ud La ke Sc hool & Teac hera g e 195 0 The Exploration Place 2002.48.29 S TA F F Wil Wiens Mrs. Bert Cook Mrs. Curry Bud Lake Elementary A teacherage was provided for the accommodation of the teacher. One of the teachers who taught at Bud Lake was Wil Wiens who later became principal of several elementary schools in the Prince George district. The school closed in 1956 and the remaining students were transferred to Reid Lake School. The teacherage was also moved to Reid Lake and used as an addition to the existing teacherage. Years after the school closed and was removed from the property, the site was used as an Environmental Education site for School District No. 57, with classes from elementary schools in the city bussed to Bud Lake for a day of outdoor activities and instruction. Ponds, beaver dams, bird, animal, fish and plant life were studied in a true rural setting. ENROLLMENT YEAR 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 GRADES # 1-5 13 1-5 12 2-6 12 1-7 15 2-8 13 3-8 12 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) SCHOOL ACTIVITIES The Prince George Citizen ran a column Reid Lake, which reported on activities in the lakes area including the sports and social life of Bud Lake. LAKES DISTRICT SCHOOLS HOLDING PICNIC FRIDAY A school sports day and pic- nic for Reid Lake, Bud Lake, Pilot Mountain, Crescent Lake and Chief Lake schools will be held on Chief Lake school grounds on Friday, June 22, commencing at 10 a.m. Free ice cream, lemonade and coffee will be provided. A booth will be operated by the Women’s Institute of Nukko Lake and a special invitation is extended to all parents and others interested to attend. REID LAKE June 18, 1951 June 25, 1955 The Prince George Citizen The Prince George Citizen Courtesy of The girls’ softball teams of Bud Lake and Reid Lake schools met at Reid Lake school on May 23 for a ball game. The Reid Lake team was the winner. After the game, the girls had supper in the school with their teachers, Mrs. E. Cook and Mrs. D. Holt. Courtesy of Cale Creek Elementary LOCATION 1931-1940 Cale Creek School was located off Highway 97 South between Buckhorn and Red Rock. The creek flows into the Fraser River at Red Rock and was once called Twelve Mile Creek. It was renamed after W.H. Cale, an early pioneer in the area. HISTORY Ca le Cr eek Sc hool 200 6 Courtesy of June Chamberland SD 57 Education Heritage Collection PINEVIEW RACES The Cariboo Women’s Insti- tute held their sixth annual inter-school sports meet on Friday, June 5th with four schools, Ferndale, Thompson, Tabor Creek and Cale Creek competing. The events were closely contested and a good brand of sport was turned out despite the chilliness of the day. The cup was captured by the Cale Creek school, having an average of 7.7. June 11, 1936 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen The school was built by Prince George Construction Company in October, 1931. It was a 24 x 30 ft. building of wood construction, valued at $1200. The first teacher was Mr. C.H. Christopher. The school was moved to the end of Buckhorn Road in the early 1940’s due to lack of enrollment. This building is still standing and is used as the headquarters of the Prince George Snowmobile Club. STAFF Mr. C.H. Christopher Miss Jean McGeachy Mrs. Alice Knutson Mr. Robert C. Smith Cale Creek Elementary L e g al B o u n d ar ie s C al e C re e k Sc h ool Mi n ut e s Book 193 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Did You Know? Facts About “Assisted Schools” T T HEY WERE ONE ROOM REMOTE RURAL SCHOOLS OF 10 OR MORE AND FEWER THAN 22 STUDENTS. HE MINISTER OF FINANCE PAID THE TEACHERʼS SALARY. THIS SALARY WAS VERY LOW AND, AS IT WAS DIFFICULT TO ATTRACT EXPERIENCED TEACHERS, THE COMMUNITY OFTEN SUP- PLEMENTED THE SALARY. E ACH SMALL COMMUNITY WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR BUILDING THEIR OWN SCHOOLHOUSE AND PURCHASING EQUIPMENT. SMALL GRANTS WERE GIVEN FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF THE SCHOOL BY THE GOVERNMENTʼS EDUCATION DEPARTMENT. D AY TO DAY CONTROL OF THE DISTRICT RESTED IN THE HANDS OF A LOCALLY ELECTED SCHOOL BOARD OF 3 TRUSTEES, ONE OF WHOM WAS APPOINTED SECRETARY-TREASURER. TRUSTEES HAD TO BE RESIDENTS OF THE AREA, BRITISH SUBJECTS AND ABLE TO VOTE. Cale Creek Elementary TRUSTEES Milton Patterson George Keene E. Rouse John Marcoll James Taylor Thomas Dexter Mrs. Jennie Newman James Tait Chas. Cummings William Whitham Jo h n Ma rc o l l S r. , tr u st e e John Marcoll Collection UNBC Northern BC Archives 2002 Living Landscapes Red Rock Project Ca l e Cr eek S chool M inut es 1 933 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Camp Creek Elementary 1932-1942 LOCATION The school was located off Highway 97 South near Woodpecker. HISTORY A one-room log school was opened in September 1932. The first twelve students to attend the school were: Dean Elson, Earl and Rhodora Smith, the Sweder children and the Dale family. Miss Vera Sawyer was the first teacher. When the school closed in 1942 due to lack of enrollment, the remaining students attended Woodpecker school. S TA F F Miss Vera Sawyer Miss J.A. Cameron Miss Verna Gillespie Miss R.T. Pringle J.J. Green Miss Crawford C am p Cr eek S chool C la ss 194 1 Our Heritage, Hixon Womenʼs Institute SD 57 Education Heritage Collection WOODPECKER “CHRISTMAS CAROL” THEME OF TERM-END PLAY The Camp Creek School, under the able management of the teacher, Miss Crawford, held their annual Christmas Tree at the school on Monday, December 15, Dickens’ “Christmas Carol” being the feature of the evening. Recitations and songs all helped to make an enjoyable evening for all who attended. After Santa arrived and lunch was served, the children, tired but happy, left for their homes. December 18, 1941 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Cariboo Elementary 1917-1918 Location Cariboo School was located 7 km west of McBride, south of the Fraser River near a station on the Grand Trunk Pacific “East line”. Today, by road, it would be 201 km from Prince George, on the north side of the present-day Highway 16. History Cariboo had a station along with a station master. During the mid-teens, settlers and their families came to Cariboo, some to work in the Pemberton and Jacks sawmill, so there were hopes of establishing a school. Crossing the Fraser River was a consideration as there were students living on both sides. Valley Museum and Archive 2006.01.23 “Settlers pre-empted land and built houses scattered over a wide area, but they were counted as living at the nearest railway stop. This made boundaries of some settlements rather vague. Cariboo was a good example of that. The section car and cinder platform about 4 miles west of McBride was the centre for about ten miles west, and north of the Fraser River. Cariboo Station was built soon after the station at McBride. The section foreman at Cariboo was D. A. Craig.” Wheeler, Marilyn. The Robson Valley Story: a century of dreams. Sternwheeler Press, 2008. Cariboo Elementary School At Cariboo “It is expected that before the end of November, a school will be in operation at Cariboo. A letter was received from the Department of Education this week promising to take the question of a school there up as quickly as possible and have an inspector report on the advisability of establishing a supported school. By the next train Mr. A.R. Lord, of Prince Rupert, School Inspector for this district, arrived and interviewed the parents of most of the children who would attend the proposed school. Mr. Lord was satisfied as to the need of a school there, and states that it ought to be possible to get it in operation in little over a month. A public meeting will be called, ten days notice of which will be given, as soon as instructions are received to have trustees elected.” October 10, 1916 Courtesy of The [McBride] Journal The Cariboo Public School was to open on January 8, 1917 using Mr. Ralph Veale’s empty house as a temporary site. Ten children answered the roll to Mr. Percy E. Warner, teacher, until June 1918. “At the end of March [1917] about twenty people attended a meeting to plan the new Cariboo school building. A site near the station and another near the river were discussed and a vote taken. The river site prevailed, and a building committee was set up of Messrs. Roy Bayes, G.C. Monroe, and R. Orvis. The estimated cost was to be $300, $75 of which would be government grant, and the rest raised in cash and labour. The building was to be eighteen by twenty-four feet and would serve settlers from both sides of the river. As the newspaper ceased publication after the spring of 1917, no record has been found as to whether the school was ever built …” Wheeler, Marilyn. The Robson Valley Story: a century of dreams. Sternwheeler Press, 2008. Did You Know? T he salary of the school teacher was to be set at $85 per month. T here was no road access in and out of Cariboo – only rail and river transport. Mud, stumps, uneven ground, twisty trails made even horse and cart travel unfeasible. C ariboo has had several name and location changes. In the 1920’s it became “Craibenn: a combination of D.A. Craig, the section foreman, and J. Bennet, the owner of a pole camp 5 km west. Then, in the early 1940’s, it became Lamming Mills, named after the Lamming Brothers Sawmill, a quite large settlement complete with Lamming Mills School that operated from 1943 to 1965. Carney Hill Elementary 1967-2010 2579 Victoria Street, Prince George MOTTO My Future Starts Here C ar ney Hill Sc hool 200 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection MISSION STATEMENT The students in this school will be given every opportunity to develop to their full potential within a cooperative, healthy environment. ORIGIN OF NAME DOUBLE SHIFT CLASSES TO END Double shift classes in district schools are to end. District will now proceed with the building of three new schools, one of which will be a 12-room school at Carney Hill. Carney Hill was originally named Van Bow Elementary when it was opened, on shift, in 1966. It was named for the intersecting Vancouver and Bowser Streets off 17th Avenue. In 1968, the name was changed to Carney Hill Elementary in honour of former School Board member (1917) and mayor (1919), Mr. Hiram Carney. February 14, 1967 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Front Ha l lwa y 200 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Carney Hill Elementary ENROLLMENT Co nstruc tion Beg ins 1966 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection BOUNDARY CHANGES MADE TO CUT CLASS SIZES Extensive student population, of more than 650, resulted in class sizes of 35 pupils in primary divisions and 40+ pupils in intermediate classrooms. Under the guidance of the school’s first administrator, Mr. Larry Finden, a request for boundary changes decreased the classroom overloads, moving the students to Ron Brent Elementary. In order to accommodate the rapid growth occurring in Prince George at the time, the school underwent a number of building additions. COMMUNITY SCHOOL STATUS In 1993 the school achieved Community School status and was also the recipient of Inner City School funding. Shortly thereafter, the Carney Hill Neighbourhood Centre was established in the school. The organization provided Daycare and Afterschool care as well as recreational and social activities. Ca rn e y H il l N e i g h b o u rh o o d Ce n tr e 2 0 0 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection YEAR 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 GRADES 1-7 1-7 1-7 1-7 1-7 1-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 # 348 352 408 484 534 498 600 649 606 542 496 477 504 509 485 407 459 411 396 405 397 372 344 336 299 307 305 304 287 316 297 288 310 284 267 255 225 218 204 165 166 159 143 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Carney Hill Elementary C ar ney Hil l Sta ff 19 79-8 0 Owen C orc or an, princ ipal SD 57 Education Heritage Collection FIRST STAFF 1966 Larry Finden Principal Elsie Thran May Hickson Secretary Re adi n g B u d di e s ci r ca 19 80 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ann Murphy Kim Gordon Helen Checkley Carney Hill Elementary REMEMBER W H E N . . . In the early 1970ʼs the staff members of Carney Hill started a band. They practiced every morning and one lunch hour per week for a whole year. The former wife of the conductor of the Prince George Symphony was the leader. Subsequently the conductor was frustrated at how the band sounded. They had to remind her that the staff did have daytime jobs teaching students and were unable to spend the day practicing their chosen instruments. Van Bow/Carney Hill staff taught with the Ron Brent staff. A friendly rivalry existed between the two and the latter staff always felt that school successes were attributed to their cooperation and support! Transiency was always a feature of the Carney Hill student population. In the early 70ʼs Larry Finden recalled that it wasnʼt uncommon for teachers to have two registers completely filled by Christmas time. LARRY FINDEN, THE FIRST PRINCIPAL, REMEMBERS It was a time when many people were coming into Prince George – there was a real pioneer spirit about the city and this was reflected in the teaching staff as well. THE TWO JUDY’S RECALL When I went to Carney Hill in September 1969, the learning assistance teacher had the health room for a classroom. When our school was bursting at the seams, we had two portables out in the area of the monkey bars and 5 intermediate classes jammed into a four-room open area. That was tight!! Recollections of Judy Kingsford and Judy Bulpin, fondly known as “the two Judy’s”; both taught together until their retirement in June 2002. 1974 All of the Carney Hill student body watch the final game of Canada vs. Russia series in 1974. Carney Hill Elementary PRINCIPALS 1966 - 2010 Larry Finden Don Wilkins Owen Corcoran Dave Ross Don Bassermann Ray Giffin Clint Buhr David Bond Gerry Sheanh Sherry Thibault Craig Brennan Gr eat Eg g Dr op 198 6 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection VICE-PRINCIPALS 1976 - 2010 Jim Briggs Dave Ross Bryan Kineshanko Al Hiebert Bruce Ballantyne Dan Domes Lynne Boomhower Carol Brain Donna Preston Bill McIver Steve Wyer Ian Landy C ar ney Hi l l Ve rsi o n of t he 19 88 Wi nt er Ol ym pi c s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Carney Hill Elementary ABORIGINAL SCHOOL CHOICE DEFENDED Carney Hill Elementary is the right location for an aboriginal school for a number of reasons, proponents say. On Tuesday night an aboriginal education steering committee report named Carney Hill Elementary as its preference from a shortlist of four schools. Trustees voted to accept the recommendation. Charlotte Henay, School District 57’s aboriginal education principal, said there was immediate reaction to the news. One parent from another school’s catchment area already called Carney Hill about enrolling a kindergarten student there, and the choice school is far from up and running. Marlene Erickson, co-chair of the steering committee, said September 2010 is the date organizers intend to open, regardless of the policy hurdles before them. “The reason why we’ve been such a strong proponent is because our membership keeps asking about it,” Erickson said. “There is a strong push from our respective communities.” She has no doubt there will be plenty of children enrolled at such a school, but putting it at Carney Hill makes a student population almost a foregone conclusion. Aboriginal children already make up about 80 per cent of the student population at the school. Carney Hill is also home to an aboriginal head-start program, the Carney Hill Neighbourhood Centre, and onsite day care, a partnership with the other outside agencies and it is one of the four inner city schools that uses the Primary Project, a concentrated learning program for the youngest grades. “Carney Hill provided a lot of positive community engagement,” Henay said. “If you look at the raw data portion in our report, the comments were ‘bring it here, we want it, this is the place, we are ready.’“ Being a choice school, it is not exclusively for aboriginal children. Anyone who likes the style and philosophy of teaching - although those details have yet to be decided - could send their child there. It also presents the possibility that someone in the catchment area will not like the style of learning there, and can look to another school. Ron Brent, Harwin and Van Bien are alternatives. This was another positive element behind the choice of Carney Hill. Although there are many choice schools in the district, this will not be the first one based on race or culture. French Immersion programs run in a number of schools in the area, and there is also a French exclusive school that teaches French language and culture as its basis for doing business. Henay and Erickson said a great deal more public consultation is about to happen to help design the way the teaching materials and resources will look. February 26, 2009 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Central Fort George Elementary 2955 Third Avenue, Prince George “Work Hard, Play Safe, Be a Friend” HISTORY 1911-2011 Ce n tr al F o r t Ge o rg e El e m e n t ar y 2 000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection George J. Hammond, an American land speculator, created the Central Fort George townsite in 1910. He built a log schoolhouse, which was originally opened as a Presbyterian school with an enrollment of 5 children. Rev. Alfred T. Bell was the teacher. In the spring of 1911, Mrs. Jennie B. Baker took over the teaching duties and, in the fall of that year, the school became a government assisted rural school. In 1912, the school had 22 students with teacher, Miss Mayme Dodd. In the fall of 1912, Mr. William Bell assumed the teaching post in charge of 24 children. The log building was used from 1910-1913. Fort G eor g e Scho ol 1 913 The Exploration Place P977.5.48 Central Fort George Elementary In 1913, a few blocks from the log school, a frame 23’x 28’ building was completed by the provincial government at 2955 3rd Avenue. Upon opening, the new school was not large enough for the growing population and some classes had to held at the Board of Trade hall. Some children were sent home by the principal. Others remained at home due to the lack of accommodation. The oneroom frame structure became known as the “Pink School House.” The “Pink School House” was used during the construction of a more traditional two-room twostorey building with a basement in 1915. Early teachers were Percy E. Warner, Charlotte Warner, Mrs. Frances Hand, Mr. L. C. Johnson and Mr. G. R. Montgomery. The name of the Fort George School was officially changed to Fort George Central in 1946. A five-room addition was added to the building in 1951 to make a total of 7 classrooms. The addition was built by the district maintenance crew at a cost of $60,000, including furniture. John Cook was the part-time principal at the time. The staff was increased and included: Miss Alma Baehr, Miss Florence Brown, Mrs. Mary Engstrom, Mrs. Helen Gardner, Martin Kahldestad, Mrs. Mabel Schultz and John Wiens. The enrollment increased to 270 pupils. In 1963, a new larger twostorey building was built on the same property, which included a gymnasium. The old structure became the Continuing Education School and was demolished in August 2004. F o r t G e o r g e S c h o o l with Pink Schoolhouse on right 1 9 1 5 The Exploration Place P990.6.14 For t Georg e Sc hool 191 7 The Exploration Place P977.5.72 Central Fort George Elementary The school board has issued a notice inviting all new children under ten years of age to attend at the board of trade hall (old school building) at 9 o’clock Monday morning, while those over ten years of age should attend at the new school building. Classes will be organized on that day for the work of the school term. A number of children have been compelled to remain at home since the opening of the fall term owing to the fact that there was not sufficient room in the school to take care of them, but this defect will now be remedied, thanks to the cooperation of the department. October 4, 1913 Courtesy of The Fort George Weekly Tribune Ad Appea ring Sept. 13 , 1 931 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen The junior room in Fort George School has been closed by reason of an epidemic of chicken pox. Four or five pupils are affected. January 9, 1917 Courtesy of The Prince George Star Ce n tr al F o r t G e o rg e St a f f 195 2 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ad Appea ring Nov . 27, 195 2 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Central Fort George Elementary In 1998, Central Fort George became a choice traditional school. It would be a public elementary school with a traditional focus. There would be no extra charge to attend the school but there would be an expectation for parents to purchase a school uniform for each child and transport them to and from school should their family reside outside the catchment area. The principal at the time was Gervin Halliday. Central Fort George Traditional School was closed in 2011 and the district traditional school moved to Spruceland Elementary. MISSION STATEMENT The mission of the Central Fort George Traditional School as an alternate program in School District 57 is to strive toward individual excellence in education by providing a structured approach to learning whereby all students acquire knowledge and skills in a systematic, sequential way. Core virtues and a clearly defined standard of behaviour will be established and a positive and close partnership between home and school will be encouraged. C e n tr al F o r t G e o rg e T r adi t i o n a l Sch o o l G r ade s 6- 7 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Central Fort George Elementary Traditional school….What makes it different? 1. Shared Vision 2. Language Arts…Companion Reading Program K-7 3. Single Grade Grouping 4. Character Building…Core Virtues Sequentially Taught 5. Dress Code 6. Open Door Policy 7. Community Service 8. Compulsory Fine Arts 9. Letter Grades…K to 7 10. Bi-Monthly Reporting 11. Assessment- Regular and Standardized L.A./Math K-7 12. Behaviour- High Level of Deportment Expected Firs t Tra ditiona l Sc hool Staff 1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection La st Tra dit iona l S chool St a ff 201 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Central Fort George Elementary PRINCIPA L S 1950-2011 John Cook Bill Fisher Doug Byres To m P i d c o c k Larry Finden Clint Buhr Ve r n B r o w n Leigh Erwin Ge r v i n H a ll i d a y Chris Dugdale Linda Picton C e n tr al F o r t G e o rg e St a f f 199 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Centr al Fort Geor g e Staff 1 965 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Central Fort George Elementary EN R O L L M E N T YEAR 1945 1950 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 GRADES # 1-6 25 1-4 65 1-6 239 1-6 275 1-7 615 1-7 517 1-7 201 K-7 215 K-7 169 K-7 158 K-7 148 K-7 155 K-7 224 K-7 164 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Cent r al Fort G eor g e T ra dit ional C la ss 199 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection C e n t ra l F o rt G e o r ge Gr . 5-6 195 5 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Central Fort George Elementary Did You Know? T OMMY TOMPKINS, WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER AND “BUSHMAN” FROM THE CBC TELEVISION WILDLIFE COUNTRY SERIES, VISITED CENTRAL FORT GEORGE’S LIBRARY IN EARLY 1974. HIS WOLF COMPANION NA- HANNI FASCINATED THE CHILDREN. TOMPKINS FILMED A SERIES OF HALF HOUR DOCUMEN- TARIES ON TRAVEL AND SURVIVAL IN NORTH- ERN BRITISH COLUMBIA, THE YUKON AND THE NORTHWEST TERRITORIES. C ENTRAL FORT GEORGE SCHOOL ADOPTED FOSTER CHILDREN FROM AFRICA THROUGH THE WORLD VISION ORGANIZATION. MANY SCHOOL ACTIVITIES RAISED FUNDS FOR THE CARE OF THESE FOS- TER CHILDREN. I N THE LATE 1960’S, THE YM-YWCA OFFERED BOYS’ AND GIRLS’ GYM CLASSES ON SATURDAY T om my T om pki ns & Naha nni SD 57 Education Heritage Collection MORNINGS AT QUINSON, CONNAUGHT AND CENTRAL FORT GEORGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS. I N THE LATE 1970’S, THE SCHOOL BOARD OFFERED THREE CLASSROOMS IN THE OLD CENTRAL FORT GEORGE BUILDING TO THE CHRISTIAN EDUCATION ASSOCIATION TO ES- TABLISH A PRIVATE SCHOOL. ONE TRUSTEE OBJECTED TO THIS AS THE NEWER CENTRAL FORT GEORGE SCHOOL WAS ALSO USING CLASSROOMS IN THE OLDER BUILDING AND HE FELT THAT TWO PRINCIPALS IN ONE BUILDING WOULD BE “DIFFICULT”. CEDARS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL LATER TOOK OVER THE ORIGINAL NECHAKO NORTH SCHOOL SITE. C ENTRAL FORT GEORGE AND SOUTH FORT GEORGE SCHOOLS WERE REGISTERED WITH THE MINISTRY AS FORT GEORGE CENTRAL AND FORT GEORGE SOUTH UNTIL VERY RECENT TIMES. THIS RESULTED IN MANY “SEE ALSO” REFERENCES AND PROVIDED SOME CONFUSION WHEN FILING AND RETRIEVING SCHOOL INFORMATION AT DISTRICT AND PROVINCIAL LEVELS. Central Fort George Elementary A FTER THE DISTRICT CONTINUING EDUCATION SCHOOL RELOCATED IN NOVEMBER 2001, THE PRINCE GEORGE HERITAGE COMMISSION TRIED TO GET THE OLD CENTRAL FORT GEORGE SCHOOL DECLARED A CITY HERITAGE SITE. THERE WAS A GREAT DEAL OF DISCUSSION IN THE COMMUNITY OVER ITS DEMOLITION, BUT THE WRECKING BALL FINALLY LEVELED THE BUILDING IN AUGUST 2004. Demolition 200 4 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection S INCE THE 1990’S, CENTRAL FORT GEORGE SCHOOL HAS BEEN THREATENED WITH CLO- SURE ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A CHOICE TRADITIONAL SCHOOL IN 1998 WAS A PARTIAL SOLUTION TO ENROLLMENT AND BUDGETARY PROBLEMS. EVEN THOUGH THE SCHOOL FINALLY CLOSED IN JUNE 2011, THE CONCEPT OF A TRADITIONAL SCHOOL ESTABLISHED AT CENTRAL FORT GEORGE ELEMENTARY CURRENTLY LIVES ON AT SPRUCELAND ELEMENTARY. Ha p p y Gr am , Ce n t r al F o r t G e o rg e T r ad i to n a l Sch o o l 20 10 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Central Fort George Elementary ACTIVITIES Ch r i st m as Co n ce r t Pl ay 1 973 S port s Day Sa ck Rac e 197 4 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Br oom b al l 1 964 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection S ki Trip 1 999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Central Fort George Elementary Sc hool Ac tivities SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Central Fort George Elementary Memories When I think of Central Fort George Traditional School, I have a special memory of the children in the traditional school uniform of blue t-shirts and black pants singing “O Canada”. Each morning, teachers and children paused wherever they were and whatever they were doing to sing our national anthem. This memory comes back to me during any singing of “O Canada.” Karen Simmons 2012, retired teacher-librarian Having taught at Central Fort George for nineteen years, certainly many teachable moments with kids bring back fond memories. But it wasn’t the structured environment that led to these moments, as much as the unstructured environment. The “pets in the room” enriched many lessons. The deceased salmon fry lying on the floor led to lessons on death and keeping the lid closed so they couldn’t jump out. The pet bunny roaming free led to lessons about cleaning up after it and keeping the cage door shut. The unhatched chicken eggs led to discussions about eggs as food and eggs as new life by not tampering with the heat control switch. Finally one year, we had mice running throughout the building that led to lessons not mentioned in the curriculum. Sitting at my teacher’s desk watching a mouse run across the room into the hall and into the library, I waited for my students’ reaction, which naturally was, “Can we go to the library?” Obviously they wanted to do some research on mice! Glen Sargeant 2012, retired teacher Central Fort George Traditional Staff Heritage Day late 2000s Courtesy of Glen Sargeant, retired teacher Chief Lake Elementary 1914-1959 LOCATION The school was located 27 kilometres northwest of Prince George, off Chief Lake Road near Chief Lake. Chief La ke S chool 19 30’ s HISTORY SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The first school in the Chief Lake area was a small log building, 12’ x 16’, built in 1914-1915 at the corner of Mossvale Road and the Chief Lake Road. The teacher at this school was the owner of the Chief Lake grocery store, Ernest Towers. A student, Frank Allen, remembers it as very small and dark. Attending the school were the Allen boys, the Tower boys, the Van Somer children and children from the Prosser Family. In 1917, a second log schoolhouse, 30’x 40’, was built one kilometre past the creek on Chief Lake Road on the Red Horning place. The teacher was Jack Burt. This school closed in 1921 and there wasn’t another school in the area until January of 1934. The third Chief Lake School was centrally located on Thompson Road. It was built by Sam Mytting, Mr. Johnson and the Allen boys in 1934. This school had large windows facing the south to let in a lot of natural light. It had outdoor toilets and a big oil drum was used as a wood stove. Wood and water still had to be hauled in. The first teacher in this school was Miss E. Frances Kirkham. In 1940, due to an increase in enrollment, an annex to the school was opened in a small house, owned by Ed Allen, on the corner of Robinson Road and Chief Lake Road. An addition to the third school was built in 1953. The district in the lakes area tendered a bussing system in 1958. Many oneroom schools were closed and the students were bussed to Nukko Lake Elementary. Mr. Frank Allen took over the bussing contract, which also included a run to take grade 8 students into Prince George High School in town. Chief Lake Elementary ENROLLMENT YEAR 1945 1947 1949 1951 1953 1955 1957 1958 GRADE # 1-8 21 1-8 38 1-8 35 1-8 33 1-8 41 1-8 28 1-7 20 1-8 44 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) CHIEF LAKE SETTLERS WANT PUBLIC SCHOOL The settlers of the Chief Lake dis- E A R LY S TA F F Ernest F. Towers Mr. J. E. Fowler Miss E. Wright Miss V. B. Hunt Mr. John Burt Miss Mary Dell Wilson Miss E. Frances Kirkham Miss D. A. Scott Miss M. Lucille Peaker Miss Evelyn Spark Miss Jean Kennedy Mrs. Margaret Carlson Miss Eileen G. Russell Dorothy M. Elvidge B. F. Privat trict have petitioned the government to establish a public school in their thriving settlement. Already there are eleven children of school age there, and as ten is the lowest requisite number of school children for the establishment of a government school, it is thought their petition will be favored at once. School Inspector Gower, of Victoria, is in the district and will visit and report on the Chief Lake application. August 27, 1915 Courtesy of The Prince George Herald Notic e Appea ring Ma y 19, 193 8 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Chief Lake Elementary “SANTA” VISITS SCHOOL The Chief Lake school Christmas Tree, which was held Wednesday created much enjoyment for the children. Santa Claus appeared on the scene at 9 p.m. and passed the gifts from Miss Kennedy to the children. A dance was held for the older people later in the evening. December 25, 1941 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen LAKES DISTRICT SCHOOLS HOLDING PICNIC FRIDAY A school sports day and picnic for Reid Lake, Bud Lake, Pilot Mountain, Crescent Lake and Chief Lake schools will be held on Chief Lake school grounds on Friday June 22, commencing at 10 a.m. Free ice cream, lemonade, and coffee will be provided. A booth will be operated by the Women’s Institute of Nukko Lake and a special invitation is extended to all parents and others interested to attend. June 18, 1951 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen PUPILS PRESENT PLAY AT EASTER Before the Chief Lake School closed Thursday for Easter holidays, a party was held in the school with mothers and friends of the pupils present. A play was enacted. Games were played and refreshments served. Miss D. Elvidge, teacher at the Chief Lake School, left for her home in Southern B.C. where she will spend the holiday. April 25, 1946 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Chief Lake Elementary CHIEF LAKE SCHOOL LEDGER 1933-1938 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Clear Lake Elementary 1955-1958 Location Clear Lake Elementary was located off Highway 16 West, 20 km down the Blackwater Road and 5 km down the right fork. History The Clear Lake Lumber Co. settlement had a sawmill, a planer mill, about 10 houses, some bunkhouses, and a cookhouse. In 1955, enough children lived on the site to warrant a school and while it was being constructed students were transported to West Lake School. The Clear Lake school opened in late fall of 1955 with Mrs. Elaine (Gustavsen) Glazier as the first teacher. The building had a kerosene stove but wasn’t plumbed so a large water crock and outdoor “biffies” were supplied. The composition of the school board at the time allocated three of the seven trustees to oversee rural schools. Each rural area voted for their representative trustee. The Board of Trustees struck a committee to more fairly apportion the schools for 1956 because Clear Lake School was one of the 21 schools in the ‘north and western’ area, while the eastern area included 13 schools and the southern area had only 7. The second teacher (1956-1958) was Mrs. Lillian Fowlie who, along with her husband, Jim, and their children, lived in a nearby teacherage. School attendees included the Fowlie, Schmitz, Schacke, Ward, Dalziel, Paschal, and Haight families, with a few from the Baldy Hughes base. The school was used for weekend dances when the twenty or so desks would be pushed to the side and locals would provide the music. The school population declined and this school closed. A September 1958 school opening at Baldy Mountain served the military base children. Clear Lake Sawmills Ltd. continued operations until January 2011, but without a school. ENROLLMENT YEAR 1955 1956 1957 GRADE 1-6 1-7 1-7 # 19 20 17 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Mrs. Lillian Fowlie, teacher c1957 Courtesy of the Fowlie family Clear Lake Elementary Fire Razes Clear Lake Mill; loss Estimated At $40,000 Fire which ripped through the Clear Lake Lumber Co. sawmill at Clear Lake early this morning felled the structure to ground-level and caused damage estimated at from $30,000 to $40,000. The operation was only partially covered by insurance. The mill was located about 22 miles up the Blackwater Road, south-west of Prince George. According to Hans Roine, one the owners, the fire broke out about 12:30 a.m. A spark from an open burner is suspected of having started the conflagration. Endangered by the outbreak was a nearby planer mill owned by the same company, a school and 10 houses. The mill had been sprayed by hoses right up until midnight as a precautionary measure, Mr. Roine told The Citizen this morning. One thousand gallons of diesel oil, stored in a tank near the mill, was an early victim of the blaze. “When that went nothing could stop it,” Mr. Roine said. All the mill equipment, including a twin power unit, was totally destroyed. It was the first fire the owners have experienced in three years of operating at Clear Lake. Mr. Roine was at home at 511 Patricia Blvd. when he was notified by telephone of the fire. “For ten years I have been afraid of telephone calls at night,” the veteran mill operator said. “Last night the one I feared came.” No lives were endangered by the blaze, although a few employees were prevented from attempting to remove the sled that carried the diesel tank. All activity was concentrated in keeping the fire from spreading to the surrounding woods and buildings. Besides Mr. Roine the other owners involved are Hugh Glazier and Don Doyle. Mr. Roine said the company plans to re-build immediately. This is the second mill fire this week. A similar fire caused extensive damage to a mill at Nukko Lake earlier this week. Details of the fire were not known at press time. June 17, 1956 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Memories Clear Lake Elementary My family lived at Clear Lake since my dad worked there. Before there was a school, I was taking grade 1 by correspondence. Luckily for me Mrs. Charlotte Lapp, a teacher, worked in the cookhouse and she supervised my paperwork. The old sawmill, which had burned down, had piles of sawdust where we played. However, out of bounds for us kids was the planer mill 200 m away with its pile of shavings. I remember Susan Wells and Gordon and Susan Ramsay, American kids from the Baldy Hughes base who came to our school. Lenard Schmitz, former student, 2016 My mother taught at the Clear Lake School and my dad worked at the planer mill. We lived in a brand new teacherage. The old mill’s piles of sawdust were fun for play. In the summer we played adventure games; in winter we would sled down the snow-covered piles. However, during our second year there on one morning in May, a fire broke out in the eaves of our teacherage. Perhaps the diesel generator caused the insulation made of shavings to ignite. None of us were home and we lost everything. We were able to live in one of the company homes until the end of the school year when our family moved away. Joe Fowlie, former student, 2015 Boys on school steps c1957 Courtesy of Joe Fowlie Did You Know? T he first Mr. PeeGee was created by Hans Roine, one of the owners of Clear Lake Sawmills and president of the Prince George Rotary Club. His one metre prototype was designed for a 1960 Rotary convention. It evolved into a larger wood mascot that stood outside the main entrance to the Simon Fraser Hotel. 1960’s Mr. Pee Gee, Simon Fraser Hotel Exploration Place P993.11.1.5655.4 Clear Lake Elementary C lear Lake Sawmills were generous community supporters. They were one of the main sponsors for the national Canadian Schools Curling Championship that was held at the Prince George Coliseum, February 20 – 24, 1961. “Build Better With Wood” campaign October 22, 1962 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 57 RECEIPTS REGISTER 1955 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Connaught Junior Secondary 17th Avenue & Victoria Street, Prince George 1958-1979 Co nnaug ht Junio r Hig h Sc hool 195 9 The Exploration Place 2002.7.8038 HISTORY In 1956 Prince George Senior High School was built on Ross Crescent. In 1958, Connaught and Duchess Park became the Junior High feeder schools. Connaught Junior High School was opened in 1958 with 369 students in grades 7 to 9 and 17 teachers. Students were bussed from the Vanderhoof Highway area of town, which later become College Heights. The $520,000 building consisted of 10 classrooms, a library, 2 home economics rooms, 2 industrial education rooms, administrative areas and a gym. As the school was built on a hillside, the design was unusual. Briggs and Fonseca of Prince George were the architects. C. J. Oliver Ltd. of Vancouver was the general contractor. The school was probably named after the Duke of Connaught, the third son of Q ueen Victoria, who was the Governor General of Canada from 1911 to 1916. Connaught had a small fire in 1961 and the school took up temporary headquarters at the Civic Centre while damages were repaired. The school went on shift with Duchess Park in 1967 as enrollment grew and was able to occupy the newly vacated Ross Crescent site because the new PGSS had opened in January 1968. The two junior high schools reconfigured to grades 8 to 10 and were renamed Junior Secondary Schools. Prince George Senior Secondary School enrolled only grade 11 and 12. In 1977, the school was again considered for reorganization, as a “middle school” with grades 6 to 8, but became a modified “middle school” model enrolling grades 7 to 9. Connaught Junior Secondary On January 2, 1979, fire destroyed the entire classroom wing of the school causing an estimated $2.1 million damage. Only the gym, administrative and industrial education areas were unharmed. Three juveniles were later charged with arson. It was also revealed that Connaught Junior Secondary School was one of 25 schools in the district that did not have a sprinkler system. The Connaught students were bussed to John McInnis Junior Secondary to attend classes on afternoon shift from January to June 1979. After heated discussions and several budgetary reviews, the school board decided not to rebuild the school. The students were sent to Prince George Secondary School which changed its enrollment pattern to include grades 8 to 12. The property is now owned by the City of Prince George who leases the buildings to the Royal Canadian Legion. The Connaught Youth Centre is now home to four cadet corps, boxing clubs and other youth groups in the community. A f te rm at h o f S ch o o l F i r e 197 9 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Co nnaug ht Youth C entre 20 11 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Connaught Junior Secondary EN R O L L M E N T YEAR 1958 1960 1962 1964 1966 1968 1970 1972 1974 1976 1977 1978 GRADE # 7-9 369 7-9 421 7-9 412 8-9 466 8-10 468 8-10 530 8-10 535 8-10 500 8-10 499 8-10 501 7-9 482 8-9 356 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) C onnaug ht Ju nior Hig h C la ss 196 2 M r. Su r vj n at h , te a ch e r SD 57 Education Heritage Collection P R I NCIPALS Phil McG regor Ian MacKenzie Don G ough Dave E ldred Cecil P lot nikoff Jim S mit h Jack Harrower G eor ge Harris Co nnaug ht Junio r Sec ond ary Sta ff 19 70 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Connaught Junior Secondary ATHLETICS Connaught Junior students took part in junior and senior team sports such as basketball, track and field and volleyball. Juni or G i rl s B ask et ba ll 1 970 57 Education Heritage Collection J uni or B oys Ba sket b al l 197 5 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Co nnaug ht Com ets Vol ley b al l Cr est 19 70’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Gi r l s J u n i o r V o ll e y ba ll 19 74 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Boy s Seni or Voll ey ba l l 1 974 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Connaught Junior Secondary School Clubs Chess, badminton, bowling, curling, newspaper, annual, library and cross country skiing clubs were some of the activities organized by students in the school. D is c Jo c ke y Cl u b 1 9 7 4 57 Education Heritage Collection Cur ling C lub Cr est 19 60’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Cur ling C lub 1 974 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Sk i Cl ub 197 4 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ches s C l ub 1 974 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Connaught Junior Secondary School Newspapers The school produced a student newspaper most years. Excerpts from two of the earlier editions are included here. Art ic le s “ Shaha ka” Dec emb er 195 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection N ewspa per Cl ub 1970 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ar t icl e “S pruc e Bug ” De cem be r 19 64 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Connaught Junior Secondary Student Activities St ud ent Cou ncil 197 5 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Sc hool Choir 197 5 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Sn ow SD Ja zz Band 19 75 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection go 57 lf Edu Ce cati rti on f ic Her at itag e 1 eC olle 97 ctio 7 n Connaught Junior Secondary Memories I was wakened at 5:00 a.m. Sunday morning (September 1962) by a phone call from a colleague that the school had burnt down. When I got there at 5:30, the whole school was ablaze along with my shop wing. I think the ceilings and most of the walls had already collapsed. Nothing was saved. Many of the teachers and pupils lost personal, irreplaceable items. I lost my precious teaching aids, personal tools and factory hub caps for my 1955 Ford Crown Victoria and my BCTF membership certificate, which I had had beautifully framed. I never did get a replacement! Our temporary school from October 1961 to June 1962 was the Civic Centre downtown. Eight-foot partitions were put up and the main floor became our school. Boy, did I ever cover plenty of theory with my shop classes. Luckily, I was able to use some metalwork shops in the old Baron Byng building by Duchess Park… But I do remember taking on meeting pupils at the shops to work on projects on Saturday mornings in May and June. Ci vi c Cen t r e M a i n Fl oor A ud i t or i um Pa r t i t i ons 196 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Connaught Junior High was rebuilt during the year by Crossroads Construction, using parachutes to provide the heat to cure the cement block construction of the new school. Bill Tuomi 2007, retired teacher E nt r a nc e t o C iv i c C en tr e 1 9 6 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Connaught Junior Secondary I started my teaching career at Connaught Junior Secondary in 1975. It was an interesting year to say the least. On the teaching staff of twenty-four, sixteen were first year teachers, four were new to the district and four had actually been on the staff the previous year. On the third day of school that year, I was called into the principal’s office and asked if I would like to be the head of the English department. I was a bit shocked, as I knew that the metalwork teacher had more English background than I. At any rate, I accepted the job. About two years later, out of curiosity, I asked the principal why he had selected me to be the department head. He said that he had looked over his staff and noticed that I had less hair than anyone else. Qualifications have sure changed since then! One time, I had arranged my class into groups for a novel study so that they could study a novel appropriate to their reading level. So that I could deal with each group separately, I arranged the desks into three groups facing a different wall. One day, the vice principal dropped in to see how things were going in my class. He sat down beside a student and began to engage him in conversation. He asked the student what was going on. He said: “We are doing a novel study but there are three different books so the teacher has put us into three different groups. Those are the bluebirds over there and the robins are over on the other side. We are the crows and that is the turkey at the front of the class.” Alan Curtis 2011, retired teacher As a newly graduated archaeologist arriving in Prince George in December 1973 and no prospects of working in that field, I heard of opportunities to substitute teach. After an interview with Superintendent Dave Todd and being entertained with numerous card tricks, I was placed on the sub list. Imagine my surprise when I was sent to Connaught Junior High School on the first day back after Christmas break. I spent the day covering Science 9 and 10 classes. At the end of the day during the end of school announcements, I heard, “Mr. Gilbert please report to the Principal.” Well, I thought, that was at least one day’s work anyway. I met with principal, Jack Harrower, who said, “I like the way you handle yourself with the kids, would you like a job?” Well, I did take the job for the second semester with a Letter of Permission and, along with the 20 or so rookie teachers on staff that year, had a great experience, which led me to a subsequent career in education. Such were the opportunities in the 70’s! Dick Gilbert 2011, retired teacher Connaught Junior Secondary Did You Know? H OME ECONOMICS STUDENTS IN MANY DISTRICT SCHOOLS HELD A FASHION SHOW AT THE END OF THE YEAR MODELING GARMENTS THEY HAD MADE IN THEIR SEWING CLASSES. FREQUENTLY, LOCAL BEAUTY SALONS PROVIDED COMPLI- MENTARY HAIR FASHIONS. THE REFRESHMENTS WERE OFTEN PROVIDED BY THE HOME ECONOMICS FOODS CLASSES AND ARTS AND CRAFTS MATERIALS WERE ON DISPLAY FROM OTHER DEPARTMENTS IN THE CREATIVE WING OF THE SCHOOL. C onna ught Fa shi on Show J une 195 9 The Exploration Place P991.9.2.535.5 N 1967, CONNAUGHT STUDENTS I PLANNED A “MINIATURE EXPO” WHICH FEATURED DISPLAYS AND ACTIVITIES ILLUSTRATING THE CENTRAL THEMES OF MONTREAL’S EXPO. THE SCHOOL WAS DIVIDED INTO AREAS DEPICTING EACH THEME: MAN THE CREATOR, MAN THE PRODUCER, MAN THE PROVIDER, MAN THE EXPLORER AND MAN IN HIS COMMUNITY. THEY HELD AN INTERNATIONAL TALENT SHOW AND HAD INTERNATIONAL MUSIC, FOOD, HANDICRAFTS AND GAMES. THE MAJOR AIM OF THE STUDENT COUNCIL WAS TO MAKE CONNAUGHT STUDENTS MORE AWARE OF THE CENTENNIAL AND HAVE THEM ACTIVELY PARTICIPATE IN CELEBRATIONS RELATED TO THE MONTREAL FAIR. C ONNAUGHT ALUMNI HAD A SCHOOL REUNION IN 1992 TO REMEMBER THE YEARS THEY ATTENDED THE SCHOOL FROM 1968 – 1971. THE JULY LONG WEEKEND INCLUDED A “GET REACQUAINTED” FRIDAY EVENING, A DINNER AND DANCE ON SATURDAY AND A FAMILY DAY PICNIC AT TABOR LAKE ON SUNDAY. UA NDU S R eunion 19 92 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Cranbrook Mills Elementary 1932-1958 Location Cranbrook Mills School was built on the corner of Swanson Road and Cranbrook Hill Road on the northwest boundary of the city of Prince George. Cranbrook Hill Road leads from 5th Avenue over Cranbrook Hill and down into Otway. Cranbrook Mills School 1950’s Courtesy of Karin (Mantai) Willman, former student History The first Cranbrook Mills log school was built in 1932. It opened with 10 pupils in grades 1-8. The first teacher was Winnifred (Tyner) Lonsdale. Winnifred boarded with the Russman family. Many of the school’s parents immigrated from Germany to the farms in this area. June Chamberland, in chapter nine of her book From Broadaxe to Clay Chinking, has recorded stories of some of these early pioneers. The area was named after a sawmill that burned to the ground in 1922. The second log school was built beside the first and the first school became a teacherage. The farmers in the area cut logs and skidded them onto the school site. As in many rural log schools, the wooden plank floor was oiled, a barrel heater was provided that was fed by two-foot long pieces of wood and most of the windows faced south to catch the natural light. Water had to be carried from the Fichtner’s farm one-half mile from the school. Cranbrook Mills School closed in 1958 and the children were bussed to elementary schools in town. The old school was moved and used for storing hay on private land further down Cranbrook Hill Road until 2010 when the structure finally collapsed. Cranbrook Mills Teacherage 1955 Courtesy of R egina Schulz, former student Cranbrook Mills Elementary enrollment y ear 1945 1946 1947 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 gr ade 1-8 1-8 1-8 2-8 1-9 1-8 1-6 1-7 1-8 1-8 3-8 1-7 1-8 # 15 19 18 16 13 17 12 15 24 15 9 13 11 Source: Public Schools Annual R eport (s) Cranbrook Mills School Holds Enjoyable Picnic Class members of Cranbrook Mills School held a successful all day picnic at Six Mile Lake recently. A bedspread was presented at the picnic to teacher Mrs. Wilson, who is leaving the school at the end of the term. Class members enjoyed a fare of wieners and ice cream and also participated in afternoon swimming at the outing. Cranbrook Mills Class 1957 Courtesy of Karin (Mantai) Willman, former student Staff Miss Winnifred (Tyner) Lonsdale G ordon R . Phillips Miss Dorothy L. Courtney Mrs. Hilda M. Allison Miss Theresa Klein Flora E. M. Hughes Miss Nora MacDonald Mr. Kitchener Mrs. Kitchener Norma Townsend Mrs. Wilson June 30, 1955 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Picnic at Six Mile Lake Septempber 1953 Courtesy of R egina Schulz, former student Cranbrook Mills Elementary Memories I started in January of ’33 when the school opened. It was a brand new log school. I used to have a story every Friday afternoon for about half an hour. We read different books or short stories. I think the book they liked best of all was Thomas Seton’s animal story. They liked others too. That was the book that was on the bookshelf all the time so we could read it at any moment. When I first went, they were my own books. Later, we had a library, which was called the Library Commission, but it was a library here in town. They sent out books. We had ours filled in the fall, back at Christmas time and then changed again after Christmas until Easter. Then we didn’t have any after that. We had a particularly good librarian who started the book service for us. She would send out a box of books to the communities. There weren’t a lot of books but there was a good variety. Some of the children’s books were, as she would say “Delightful!” We always had something special in June but it wasn’t necessarily a picnic. I always had a card or some little thing for the youngsters to close the school year. At Easter time, I used to get them each a chocolate Easter egg of some kind. One little girl kept hers. When they first came out with flowers and your name written on them in icing, a long time after, I gave them one with their name written on it. They teased the girl because she wouldn’t eat hers. She put it upstairs and when she went to get it two years later, it was all melted. They teased and teased her. Winnifred Lonsdale. Interview with Winnifred Lonsdale. University Women’s Group, 1970’s. Sitting on the Fence 1957 Courtesy of Karin (Mantai) Willman, former student Cranbrook Mills Elementary Cranbrook Mills Cash Book 1933-1938 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Crescent Lake Elementary 1936-1959 LOCATION The school was located 40 km northwest of Prince George via Chief Lake Road, 8 km past the present Nukko Lake School. Cr esc ent La ke Sc hool 194 0’s HISTORY SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The first school was a one-room log building that opened in the late 1930’s with nine children. The first teacher was Miss C. Barbara Reid. Other early teachers were Miss E. E. Lemon, Miss Lillian Elsie Williams, Miss Doris C. Smith, Miss Isabel E. Campbell, Miss Margaret E. MacDonald, Anna Freburg, and Miss J. Dilworth. The school burnt down in March 1944. School was held in the front room of the Weissbrod’s home until the end of June. The local school board supplied desks and blackboards. By the fall, a new frame school was built. From 1945 to 1959, the enrollment ranged from 16 to 24 students in grades 1–8. The frame building burnt down in April 1959 causing damage estimated at about $7,000. Arson was suspected, but it was determined that an oil stove probably caused the blaze. Students were transported on a temporary basis by their parents to the Chief Lake School seven miles away. After some discussion, reconstruction was vetoed by the school board due to declining enrollment and difficulties in hiring teachers for rural schools in the lakes area. Students were then bussed to Nukko Lake School. Grade 8 students in the lakes area were bussed to Prince George. Crescent Lake Elementary Memories I moved to Crescent Lake and, because it was so much further out of town, the children were desperately quiet, you know; it was hard to get a peep out of them. I had a very shocking experience; it was much more traumatic for the families than it was for me. I had a mile and a half walk (which didn’t hurt me any– in the winter I skied), and one day I landed there and I said, “Where’s Eddie?” Somebody said, “Eddie’s deaded!” Unfortunately, one cousin had been fooling around with a loaded gun and killed his cousin so, for some reason or other, that’s what I kind of remember about that; it’s got nothing to do with school really. Everybody was just a little nervous of the cousin after that but, the poor kid, you know, it was a complete accident. We also had dances in that schoolhouse and there were some pretty good fiddle players out in the country there and they would get up on the teacher’s desk (to get out of harm’s way) and people would dance in what was left of the room after the desks were piled up in the corner. There was a trapper that came in for the Christmas dance and he was a wonderful dancer–very agile. Everyone backed off to watch as he demonstrated his skill…while I hung on for dear life! An Interview with Lillian (Williams) McIntosh. RTA Oral History, 1999. Lill ia n (Wil lia m s) M c Int os h 199 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection FELLOW PUPILS ASSIST BARBARA GOODWIN FUND Fellow pupils at the school which Barbara Godwin attended have donated to the fund to provide medical treatment for the little girl. Five pupils at Crescent Lake School raised $30.30 to help the fund which is providing care at Children’s Hospital in Vancouver for the little girl, who was badly burned in a fire last fall. Another recent donation was $30 from Pas Lumber Sport Club. April 22, 1954 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Crescent Lake Elementary SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 57 (PRINCE GEORGE) Workbook Order Form SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Crescent Lake Elementary LETTER ATTACHED TO PRINCIPAL’S ANNUAL REPORT June 1958 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Crescent Spur Elementary 1950-1971 LOCATION The school was located 168 km east of Prince George, 7 km off Highway 16 and 50 km from McBride, on the CN railway, near a crescent shaped oxbow lake formed by the Fraser River. Cr esc ent Spur Scho ol & C hurc h 19 50’ s HISTORY Courtesy of Ray Olson From Liaboe to Loos and Beyond 2011 Students from Crescent Spur went to school at Loos, 4 km down the track until 1950. A road connecting the communities of Loos and Crescent Spur was finished in the spring of 1948, which eased transportation problems. A small building adjacent to the Leboe mill site was originally used as a school until the construction of a three-storied building, on the hill above the settlement, in September of 1951. The basement was used as a 2½-room teacherage, the top floor as the minister’s home and the middle story was the church and two classrooms. The Central B.C. Christian Association provided this building. Mrs. Findlayson was the first teacher. Some other early teachers were Miss Charlotte Whealton, Miss Nellie Veale and Mr. Henry Wiebe. There was some discussion in the community in the 1950’s about establishing a superior school at Crescent Spur but the McBride School Board considered it more economical to have one secondary school in McBride to service the Robson Valley area. Students would be bussed to this school. Some high school students took correspondence courses at Crescent Spur Elementary. There was also some controversy over the role of religion in a public school system when the community wanted to hire their own “Christian” teachers. The sawmill was sold in the 1960’s and a fire leveled most of the settlement in 1971. With declining enrollment, the school was closed and the children were bussed to McBride. Crescent Spur Elementary ENROLLME N T YEAR 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 GRADE # 1-7 15 1-8 23 1-8 20 1-9 26 1-8 28 2-8 27 1-8 26 1-8 23 1-7 19 1-8 19 1-7 19 1-8 30 1-12 54 1-10 50 1-7 37 1-7 37 1-7 48 1-7 46 1-7 46 1-3 12 1-2 4 No ti c e A p p e ar i n g O ct . 4, 195 4 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Mi s s Fi n d la y son , t e ac h e r, 19 50 Courtesy of Ray Olson From Liaboe to Loos and Beyond 2011 Crescent Spur Elementary The Prince George Citizen had a column in the 1950’s with the heading “CRESCENT SPUR” which reported on the social activities and school functions in the communities of Loos and Crescent Spur. CRESCENT SPUR AND LOOS TEACHERS FETED AT PARTIES CRESCENT SPUR SCHOOL REJECTED been honored at separate farewell parties here recently. Last week, a farewell party was held at the home of W. J. Leboe for Henry Wiebe, Crescent Spur teacher. The evening was spent in playing games. Prior to the serving of refreshments, Louis Madley gave a farewell speech and presented Mr. Wiebe with a purse of money from the community and a travelling kit from the choir. Mr. Wiebe ably thanked the gathering for the gifts. The next evening, the school children had dinner with Mr. Wiebe and presented him with a white nylon shirt. Ronnie Leboe was taken to the school in the car as his leg is in a cast. Following the weekly choir practice, members attended a gathering at the home of Cliff Wanamaker when a surprise farewell party was held for Don McRae, Loos school teacher. Games were played and Mr. Madley presented Mr. McRae with a gift. A lovely luncheon was served afterwards. Crescent Spur. Trustees rejected the idea Tuesday after reviewing the report of an inspection team which looked into the small settlement where some parents would rather have their children educated in a one-room school than bused 32 miles to McBride. The team of trustee Bob Affleck and two district administrators concluded that not all parents favor a return of the “little red schoolhouse”. The school would cost $60,000 plus the cost of a site. The 17 Crescent Spur students would receive a broader and more specialized education in McBride and the existing arrangements should be continued, the Board decided. The situation will be reviewed in April. Trustees agreed that a discipline problem appears to exist on the school bus and the administration will consider appointing a bus supervisor to the run. The highways department will be asked to improve the road leading from the highway to Crescent Spur townsite. Two district school teachers have There will be no school in July 2, 1953 March 11, 1970 The Prince George Citizen The Prince George Citizen Courtesy of Courtesy of Crescent Spur Elementary MCBRIDE PURCHASE ORDERS 1959-1963 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Croydon - North Croydon Elementary LOCATION Croydon was located 285 km east of Prince George, 16 km west of Tete Jaune junction on the CN line in the upper Fraser region. It was named after a town in England. 1923-1965 HISTORY Croydon Elementary School was opened in 1923 with Richard J. Downey as the first teacher. It was a converted log bunkhouse from the Etter and McDougal Sawmill, which moved to Shere in 1920. By 1928 the population in Croydon dropped to 15 people from a high of 80 when the mill was in full production. The school was open until 1954 except for the 1951-1952 year. Settlement in the area was on both sides of the river and thus a second school, North Croydon Elementary, was built to accommodate a shift in population. The school was held in temporary quarters in 1950 and a new two-room school was built in 1951. It consisted of two independent portables with separate heating, lighting and outdoor plumbing. Teacherages were made available. North Croydon School continued until 1965 when it also closed and the students were bussed to Dunster. Nor t h Cr oy don S chool 19 60’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Cr oy don S chool 19 28 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Croydon - North Croydon Elementary NORTH CROYDON ENROLLME N T YEAR 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 GRADE # 1-8 11 1-6 12 1-7 17 1-8 17 1-8 19 1-7 27 1-8 23 1-8 28 1-8 38 1-7 30 1-8 33 1-8 33 1-6 33 1-7 31 1-7 28 C R OY D O N ENROLLMENT YEAR 1946 1947 1948 1949 1952 1953 GRADE # 1-8 12 1-8 10 2-8 9 4&8 2 1-6 7 1-7 6 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) EA R LY S TA F F Richard J. Downey Mis s M a r g u e r i t e I n c h e s Mi s s M a r j o r i e J . Ly n e s Miss J . ( G l a d y s ) E v e r e t s M i s s A l i c e F. C l u ff Mrs. Ella Darlington M i s s D . Vi o l e t F l i c k Miss Mary Dell Wilson Edith Marion Gregory Mi s s E . M . ( B e t t y ) C o x Rod e r i c k Wa l l y M c I n n e s Cr oy don S chool C la ss 193 0’s The Exploration Place 2003.17.37 No rt h Cr o y do n S tu de n t s 1 950 ’s Valemount Historic Society Croydon - North Croydon Elementary Memories The school was one room, with a barrel wood heater at the back. There was a pump in the yard for water, a woodshed, and two little buildings out back, one for girls and one for boys! There was a tiny teacherage beside the school. Dances, Christmas concerts, and all community activities were held in the school. Roads were not ploughed in the winter. In fact, the roads were only trails between stumps, barely wide enough to get through in the summer with a team and wagon from Croydon to Dunster. The road did not go to McBride until 1940’s. Cr oy don S chool C la ss 193 5 Robson Valley Story The children walked to school, from as far as four miles or more. In winter, they sometimes had to wade in snow up to their waists. Those who lived on the south side of the river took the shortest way to the track and walked on that, as it was ploughed before each train. Those who lived on the north side of the valley had the problem of crossing the river. In winter, they walked across the ice and in summer there was a ferry. The ferry was run by the Cochrane family, who were also guides on hunting parties out of Jasper. Later it was run by Tom Wilson. Talitha (Doran) Rosin, former student. Robson Valley Story, 1979. Cr oy don F err y 1 940 ’s The Exploration Place 2003.18.18 Croydon - North Croydon Elementary North Croydon School comprised of two portable classrooms, each in a separate building, each with its own heating facilities and both with “out-door” plumbing! Our source of water was a clear, cold, fast running creek at the boundary of the schoolyard to the west. My classroom was small but very pleasant, with lovely tall windows along one side, facing the road. I don’t recall just how many children I had there—something like twenty, I think —the classroom was full but so arranged that it did not seem crowded. One of the most bizarre adventures for me that year occurred in the late fall. We had no electricity or any means of refrigeration. Mrs. Ives kept her perishable food on her front door step–I kept mine beside the teacherage door, on the ground under a wash-tub weighted down by a big rock. One night Mrs. Ives heard a noise about her front steps. Opening the door cautiously to peer Nort h C ro yd on St udent s 195 0’s out, she saw a black bear sniffing about her food Valemount Historic Society cache. She told some neighbor boys who were frequent visitors and that night they “lay in wait” and succeeded in shooting the bear. It was the focal point of interest the next day in school, stimulating a study of bears, stories of bears and finally the children’s own compositions about bears. After a few days, it was necessary to drag the bear far down into the bush below the schools and bury it. That should have been the end of the bear adventure, but it wasn’t. After a few more days, Mrs. Ives decided we should dig up the bear and retrieve its head to be mounted to hang in her classroom. That spring, too, the District Primary Supervisor held a big Achievement Day display in McBride and gathered work up from all the schools to use. I was very proud of the work in every field that my class had accomplished through the year. So we happily gathered up all our best work to take in. The girls had learned to hem tea towels, and do plain embroidery on each. The pupils had kept Nature Diaries throughout the year. We had kept neat notebooks in all fields of study, particularly spelling, Science and Socials. We sent these all in with the understanding they would be returned to us the next week. We never did get any of our work back… It had just disappeared! My primary class had learned to do beautiful printing in grade 1 and to also change to script in grade III. The supervisor took specimens of their writing to show other pupils and teachers throughout the district. Mrs. Leola Haan. Teaching at North Croydon School, Valemount Historic Society, 1979. Croydon - North Croydon Elementary Cr oy don Stud ents 19 30’ s The Exploration Place 2003.16.15 Our school was run by our parents as trustees, with only a small grant and the teacher’s wages from the government, plus a few teaching books, exam papers and drawing paper. Scribblers were a nickel or dime each but no pages were left unused or wasted, and a prize was given for the neatest. During the winters, our mothers made soup or cocoa, which we heated at school, and everyone had a cup and spoon. My, how good that tasted! Our school had two layers of boards and I guess tarpaper between, but it was cold. It was sure nice when teacher said, “Let’s run” and we could stand by our desk and clap hands. No day was ever too cold to miss school, though. In 1930, Louise Barnett and I wrote our Provincial grade 8 exam and passed. How proud we were! We had to go to McBride for four days. I was the youngest one to pass out of sixteen, I think, but there was no money and no high school, so we had to find work and we did. Ellice Blackman. Memories of Croydon School, Valemount Historic Society, 1984. Croydon - North Croydon Elementary RECORD OF CAPITAL PUNISHMENT 1958 Valemount Museum Online 2012 Dewey Elementary 1922-1925 Location Dewey was located 69 km east of Prince George, on the north side of the Fraser River. Today one could place it south of Highway 16, 4 km west of Sinclair Mills. History Dewey was named in 1913 for a Grand Trunk Pacific official. The railway station opened in 1913, as did the post office which was 1 km away. Alfred Alexander set up the profitable Dewey Sawmills which cut dry lumber from the area skidded by teams of horses. Little is known about the school, which was open for three years. It closed in 1925 due to a probable population shift to Sinclair Mills whose school opened in 1926. STAFF Miss Evelyn M. Jackson–1 year Mr. R.G. Gordon–2 years Grand Trunk Pacific stations 1914 Valley Museum and Archives, McBride, BC Dewey Elementary Dewey Mrs. A. Alexander was Miss E.M. Jackson [teacher at Dewey School] were guests of Mrs. Forbes at Dome Creek last weekend. hostess at a card party on Thursday last. Those from Hutton, after a very enjoyable afternoon, returned on the evening train. Those present were Mrs. Largue, Mrs. Grogan, Mrs. Howarth, Mrs. Sunbery, Mrs. Cox, Mrs. Alexander, Mrs. Macdonald, Miss Jackson [teacher at Dewey School] and Mr. E. Bashaw. March 1, 1923 March 15, 1923 Courtesy of Courtesy of The Leader The Leader Dewey sawmill 1924 Exploration Place P996.6.164 Around the City Dewey Two school teachers from out of town, Miss Jagger, of Beaverly, and Miss Jackson, of Dewey, are spending the holidays in town [Prince George]. Mr. A. Alexander and December 28, 1922 Courtesy of The Leader Did You Know? T I T hirty-two people from Dewey voted in the June 1924 provincial election. n 1928 the boilers of the abandoned sternwheelers sitting unused at Prince George’s “Cache” were purchased and installed in the Alexander Mill at Dewey. he Dewey post office in the 1950’s, to avoid confusion with Dewdney, B.C., changed its name to Cornel Mills. In the 1960’s it again changed its name, this time, to McGregor. “Today, 2014, there is no indication that there ever was a settlement at Dewey. There is only one house alongside the road. None of the original structures remain.” Raymond W. Olson. Ghost Towns On The East Line. 2014. Dome Creek Elementary 1918-2001 LOCATION The school was located east of Prince George in a rural community off the Yellowhead Highway halfway between Prince George and McBride. It was situated near the Fraser River on the CN Rail line. MISSION STATEMENT We believe that every student has the right to learn without interference from others, to learn to work with others to solve conflicts and problems without causing harm to themselves or others, and to have a safe and pleasant time at school EARLY HISTORY The school in Dome Creek opened in 1918 and the first teacher was Malcolm Humphrey Rae. Windows faced south to provide natural light, and heat was provided by a potbelly stove. In 1940, a fire in nearby Bend destroyed much of that community so the students were transferred to Dome Creek. During the war years, enrollment hovered around 10 to 12 students from Grade 1 to 8. The students were anywhere up to 18 years of age. Do me C reek P ubl i c Scho ol 1 922 BC Archives Collections Dome Creek Elementary In 1954, the original school building was replaced with the structure, on the left, known as the old wing. A second classroom was assembled two years later to accommodate the over 40 students enrolled and a teacherage was added. In 1979, the two school rooms were joined together and then housed a cloakroom, indoor washroom, a kitchen and storage rooms. Do m e C re e k El e m e n ta ry 1 980 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection S TA F F 19 1 8 - 1 9 3 5 M r. J. Mc Mul la n M r. Jam es A. Lon g M r. Robe r t McGo wan M r s . C. E. Cl ay M r. B. Cl ar k Nanc y San de r s M r s . N. E. Hutchinso n M i s s H. M . Tay lo r The population climbed back up from 7 to 16 students, but the school population fluctuated over the years and was closed in 2001 with only 6 students. Dome Creek Elementary ENROLLMENT YEAR 1946 1950 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 GRADES # 1-8 12 1-6 13 1-7 27 1-7 38 1-7 15 1-7 18 1-7 8 K-7 15 K-6 15 1-6 9 K-8 10 1-6 6 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) S TAFF 1974-2001 Ke ith Ro b inso n Ian Mapl etho rp e Walt er Bla ck Mar y H ooke r Denn is Barke r Mik e Bre nn an Ka thl een Olse n Mil l er Hobso n Mik e Mo ore John Mackie Ste ve Flec k Do m e C re e k El e me n ta ry C la ss 198 6 M ike Br enna n, t ea cher /pr incipa l & Bev W est erl und , t ea ching a ssis t ant SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Dome Creek Elementary Did You Know? U NTIL THE YELLOWHEAD HIGHWAY WAS BUILT IN THE LATE SIXTIES, THE ONLY WAY IN OR OUT OF DOME CREEK WAS BY TRAIN. IN THE EARLY DAYS, THE DOME CREEK STOP WAS GRAND TRUNK MILE 145. MANY OF THE PARENTS THROUGH THE YEARS WERE RAILWAY WORKERS. T T HE FIRST SCHOOLING IN THIS AREA WAS DONE IN PRIVATE HOMES. HE FIRST FAMILY OF SETTLERS WERE THE HOOKER FAMILY AND THEIR DESCENDANTS STILL LIVE IN THE AREA. MARY HOOKER WAS THE LAST TEACHER IN 2001 WHEN THE SCHOOL CLOSED. F T T AMILIES OFTEN BOARDED TEACHERS IN LIEU OF PAYING TAXES. HE MEDICAL INSPECTOR WAS A FREQUENT VISITOR IN THE EARLY DAYS. ONCE HE CAME TO THE SCHOOL TO FUMIGATE IT. MAKES YOU WONDER FOR WHAT? HREE SCHOOLS WERE BUILT AT SAWMILLS IN THIS AREA: BEND, KIDD AND DOME CREEK. IN THE MID- 1960ʼS, THESE SAWMILLS WERE BOUGHT OUT BY NORTHWOOD AND WERE CLOSED AS LOGS COULD BE HAULED TO PRINCE GEORGE BY THE NEW YELLOWHEAD HIGHWAY. MANY FAMILIES LEFT THE AREA TO SEEK EMPLOYMENT ELSEWHERE WHICH HAD A GREAT IMPACT ON ENROLLMENT AND THE SCHOOL POPULATION DROPPED FROM OVER 40 STUDENTS TO 16 IN 1968. F S OR MOST STUDENTS IN RURAL COMMUNITIES SUCH AS DOME CREEK, GRADE 8 WAS THE END OF THEIR SCHOOLING. HORTLY AFTER THE SCHOOL CLOSED, THE COMMUNITY CLUB TOOK OVER THE BUILDING AS A COMMUNITY CENTRE AND MOVED THE COMMUNITY LIBRARY INTO IT. THE NEARBY OLD DOME CREEK SCHOOL IS STILL STANDING AND IS STILL USED IN THE SUMMER FOR COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES. Dome Creek Elementary Sp o r t s Da y at Do m e C re e k El e m e n ta ry J u n e 20 01 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection S C H O O L AC T I V I T Y H I G H L I G H T S Box lunches were made and sold to raise money for Christmas gifts each year. Some were sold for as much as $100. Santa usually arrived after each Christmas concert with gifts for all the Dome Creek children. Sports Day was the highlight of the spring season. In 1964, the Seigrist girls won the cup for outstanding sports day performance. This cup was donated to the school by William Loewen in 1958. With small numbers over the years, and an active parent group, students were able to take part in field trips to such places as Science World and West Edmonton Mall, horseback camps, a trail ride to Barkerville and a ski trip to Smithers. Dome Creek Elementary DOME CREEK SCHOOL LOSS MOURNED The closure of Dome Creek School will mean a loss of part of the community’s identity in the hamlet of 50 people, residents say. “It’s a sad situation,” said Christina Blangy, whose children attend the school. “We may move to Alberta.” The job of teacher Mary Hooker will be lost to the community and the janitor will also lose her job, Hooker said. The School District 57 board voted to close the school effective June 30. It is a one-room school with six children from two related families in Grades 1 to 6. In the recent past it had children in kindergarten through Grade 8, Hooker said. Board members said at this week’s meeting the older children would be bussed to McBride. Parents could have younger children take courses at home through distance education with the help of a teaching assistant who will remain in the community, said trustee Bev Christensen. But parents could opt to have them bussed to McBride Centennial Elementary School from time to time to give them a chance to socialize with children their age, Christensen said. “The concern is kids taking the bus in winter time,” said Patricia Blangy, who has three children in the school. The school is not the last public building available for residents of Dome Creek to meet, Hooker said. There is a community hall separate from the school. People also stop to talk at the post office and Ma’s and Pa’s kitchen. VIA Rail serves Dome Creek, but only as a flag stop. However, the school is the centre of the community because of events involving their children, such as the kids’ Christmas concert. “There are a lot of social functions,” Hooker said. “The whole community gets involved and it’s been a kind of focus for a sense of community.” At one time Dome Creek, built along the railway, had three sawmills, Hooker said. “When Northwood took over, those mills shut down,” she said. CN Rail has downsized staff in the area. Several years ago CN operators were laid off. Last December, a section crew working out of Dome Creek was removed, she said. Still, some parents hope for a rebound that would allow the school to continue in operation. “I wish they (school board) would hold off for a year,” said Christina Blangy. May 5, 2001 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Dunster Elementary “We teach the 4R’s...readin’, writin’, ‘rithmatic, and aRt” 1915-2010 Mission Statement With community and parents, we strive for high academic achievement and life long learning through promotion and integration of the arts. Location Dunster Elementary Schools were located in the Robson Valley off Highway 16 East on the south side of the Fraser River, 31 km from McBride. History Dunster Elementary 1980 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Dunster School & Annex 1931 Exploration Place 2003.8.20 The official opening of the first Dunster one-room log school was March 22, 1916. Mr. Arthur A. Todd was the first teacher with 11 students enrolled in grades 1-8. In 1931, a new one-room log schoolhouse was built on the same piece of land. A teacherage was included in the building plans. Renovations were done in the 1950’s. The 1931 building burned on May 17, 1963. School was then held in the Dunster Community Hall until a new two-room school was built by the McBride School District. This school opened on May 29, 1964 with an enrollment of 41 students in grades 1-7. The teachers were George McKenzie and Evelyn Jeck. The original annex was sold and a new teacherage was built. In January 1998, the school became a choice school in School District No. 57 (Prince George) and was renamed the Dunster Fine Arts School. The principal at that time was Sheilagh Foster. The school closed in June 2010 and was sold for $39,000 to the Dunster Fine Arts School Society. This society offers a preschool playgroup and adult continuing education classes as well as sport activities in the old school building. The students are bussed to Centennial Elementary in McBride. Dunster Elementary enrollment y ear 1945 1950 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 gr ade 1-8 1-8 1-7 1-8 1-7 1-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 # 15 18 27 43 56 50 40 30 38 47 31 36 27 27 Source: Public Schools Annual R eport (s) Dunster School Parents & Children 1916 Exploration Place 2003.8.22 EArly Staff Arthur A. Todd R uth (Butler) Hulme Miss R uth Taylor G ladys Blundon Miss M. J. Watson Phyllis I. Johnson Nareen Flumerfelt Miss Clara G . Heaslip Miss Alice Frith Alice R iley R osemary Downey Kathleen B. Kay R ita Maloney Stella Long Florence (McLean) Leroi Mrs. Eveleen Watkins Leola C. Haan Madge Blackman S. A. Fledda Palmer R uth McNaughton Principals Dunster Fine Arts School Class 2008 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection David Bond G eorge Amarilli Ken R edman Donna Dojack Bruce Wiebe Eric Dodd Mike Moore Sheilagh Foster Ted Zarowny Kairyn R ussell-Janecke Dunster Elementary At Dunster Fine Arts School, the intrinsic motivation of the arts is used to teach to the soul of children and give them a passion for learning. The arts are powerful tools to develop all intelligences for academic performance at all grade levels and in all subjects. Children at Dunster Fine Arts School have a strong sense of belonging and a positive school and community network. This focus on the fine arts makes the school unique within School District No. 57 (Prince George). Sheilagh Foster, Principal. School District No. 57 Directory of Schools, 2000. Intermediate students from Dunster Fine Arts School described their school and community in The Prince G eorge Citizen newspaper section, “School District 57 NOTEBOOK”, on April 12, 2001. Some excerpts appear below: Dunster Fine Arts School has many helpful people. Students help others tie shoes, zip coats, help with spelling and endless other tasks. Those people aren’t the only ones who volunteer their time to the school and one another. Parents and community members come in and help with activities like hot lunch, dance, driving us to our swim program in Valemount, cross-country skiing and our quilt raffle. Some community members make a quilt for the school to raffle and the money is used for our swim program. Also, the parents and community members run a concession at the farmers’ market to raise money. Parents also baked for a pie and cake sale at the winter market to raise money for new kitchen utensils. Many of our parents and community members have volunteered their time to redo the tennis court, construct a new climbing structure and make our ice rink every year. Clarisse Vogel, grade 7 student At Dunster Fine Arts School we have events like Marimba Mizuva, which is a band that does African dances. We had the Manon Trio come from Prince George to do a presentation for us, and Vanway Elementary choir came and gave us a wonderful performance. The Exploration Place brought their parks program and gave us a lesson on our parks and animals. We enjoyed these visits and hope to have them come again to our school. Just last week, we had the Dufflebag Theatre at our school. With the help from some of our students, staff and a parent, they performed Peter Pan. The students all asked to have them come back again. We are also planning some story theatre performances in our drama class. Sometimes we travel to McBride to attend concerts there. It is fun to travel to schools and to see bands and theatre groups perform. Janel Lirette, grade 6 student Dunster Elementary At DFAS, the entire intermediate class gets involved with science fairs. In December, before Christmas holidays, our class starts thinking about science projects so that after Christmas holidays we are ready to get started. This year, the whole intermediate class went to the Central Interior Science Exhibition and did well there. We won eight special awards and I made it to the Canada Wide Science Fair. We won five gold medals, eight silver medals, and two bronze medals. I hope that DFAS continues doing science projects because they are fun and you learn lots about science. Becca Thompson, grade 7 student Sucked In Science Project Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen April 12, 2001 I think that the sports in our school are very, very good because almost everyone joins in. For our cross-country run we are allowed to go one half way if we wanted to, but most of us decided to go the whole three kilometres. Twelve students also came from Valemount for our cross-country run. When we had a mountain bike race, we were only allowed to have 12 people from our school but everyone in the intermediate class tried out for the race. McBride and Valemount also had racers in our bike races. The basketball program in our school is open to all our intermediate students and run by two high school students from McBride Secondary School. They come out twice a week for our practices and we sometimes go to McBride for games. All of the students who play basketball have improved their skills. In the winter, we have an ice rink that some parents help by flooding the ice and shoveling off the snow. The rink is also open for the public to use for games of hockey or just for skating. Mark McNaughton, grade 7 student Centennial School Basketball Tournament Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen April 12, 2001 Dunster Elementary Did You Know? D T unster was named by a Grand Trunk Pacific Railway surveyor in honour of his hometown in Somerset, England. he first Home and School Association was formed at Dunster School in November 1946 to promote parental interest in school affairs and purchase sports and playground equipment. This was the forerunner of the PTA. T here were two schools in the area, lee school on the NORth side oF the Fraser river anD Dunster school on the SOUth siDe of the fraser river. there were two separate school board representatives on the McBride School Board in the 1940’s. Many joint activities took place in the 1930’s and 1940’s and money was often raised for both schools. In 1950, the schools were amalgamated into Dunster School. I n 2001, the tennis court at Dunster Fine Arts School was resurfaced. The students decided to paint a world map on the new asphalt as a way to learn about cooperation. They painted grid lines to indicate the latitude and longitude and then painted the continents to scale. They signed their painting in Antarctica as it was white and their names, inside penguin outlines, were black. Many social studies, math and science lessons accompanied the project. The students even learned dances from around the world! Painting Antarctica Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen June 21, 2001 I n 2002, intermediate students at Dunster Fine Arts School worked on a Circle Story Internet Project with students from St. Cuthbert’s College in Auckland, New Zealand. A story was passed around a circle of writers from each school. A new section was added each time by a different team of students from each participating school. At the same time, half a world away, a group of illustrators worked to create an image to illustrate the previous section while the next group of writers were busy developing the story. The writers and illustrators never met in person – they only communicated by electronic mail! Dunster Elementary Science Fair Project 1992 Activities Chess 2007 ncert Chr s Co istma 1992 Recy clin C untry ross Co p 1994 Ski Tri g 20 08 Dunster Yearbooks SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Dunster Elementary Dunster School Minute and Account Book 1915-1928 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Dunster Elementary Memories I remember sitting at my desk, a new principal, a new location, a new home and the first day of a new school year. At the office arrived Jill Howard with her famous, loveable semi high-pitched “Hi”. She came in, sat down and introduced herself as Chairperson of the Parent Advisory Council. I barely had time to say hello, let alone go into what I thought were the typical pleasantries and cordial speeches about the school administrator’s role in the community. Jill began to tell me what the community wanted to have at the school. She was specifically talking about craft clubs but, being new, I misjudged it as telling me how the school should operate. Two thoughts occurred to me at the time. ONE: What I understand a principal does who is being challenged, and TWO: Hire this lady because I wouldn’t want to be on the wrong side of her and it is easier to join her than not. So Jill began as my substitute teacher, went on to be hired part time and, I contend, she will one day be principal. After Jill began working, I soon learned what a benefit hiring community members can be, and by the time I left, hiring the more vocal community members became standard administrative practice. I refer to it now as the “If you can’t beat them, hire them” policy. I will always cherish my memories of my two years, 1985-1987, at Dunster Elementary School, two of the best in my career. Donna Dojack, former principal. Dunster Cook Book, 1990. Donna Dojack, principal SD 57 Administrative Poster 1986-1987 Ferndale Elementary 1931-1960 LOCATION Ferndale Elementary was located 25 km east of Prince George on the Giscome Road off the Yellowhead Highway, near the present Ferndale Community Hall. This area is in the Fraser-Fort George Regional District. STA F F 1931-1955 Mrs. Helen Hansen Miss Root Miss E. F. Davis Mr. H. L. Jakeman Miss Margaret Goddard Mr. Everfield Miss Mary Killingely Mrs. Cheramy Mrs. C. Lapp Mrs. I. Smith Fer nda le S chool 19 50’ s Courtesy of Charlie Bertschi SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY The school opened on January 5, 1931 with Mrs. Helen Hansen as teacher and 8 pupils enrolled. Enrollment was from Grade 1 to Grade 8 with a high of 23 pupils in 1957. From 1931-1946, the school was governed by the Ferndale School Board. In 1946, Ferndale became part of School District No. 57 (Prince George). Ferndale Elementary C la ss of 1 954- 55 Fe rnda l e Scho ol, M iss I. Sm it h , t eac her The Exploration Place 2004.2.62 CHRISTMAS TREE AT FERNDALE SCHOOL At the Christmas concert at Ferndale schoolhouse on December 15 a very happy time was had by all who attended. A large Christmas tree loaded with gifts and nicely decorated naturally held the center of interest for the children. For the grown ups good dance music was supplied by Charlie Cowell of Ferndale on his accordian, assisted by his pal, Dean Holt. A number of old time square dances were greatly enjoyed, music being supplied by Grandpa Hoover on the violin and Mrs. Maggie on the accordian. Games and refreshments rounded out a very enjoyable evening’s program. All vowed that the school teacher, Miss Root, was a wonderful organizer and dance partner. December 22, 1938 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Ferndale Elementary Did You Know? F ERNDALE SCHOOL WON THE CARIBOO WOMENʼS CUP IN JUNE 1934 AT THE SPORTS DAY HELD AT PINEVIEW SCHOOL. THOMPSON, FERNDALE, TABOR CREEK, CALE CREEK AND PINEVIEW STUDENTS COMPETED. F ERNDALE TEACHER, MRS. WATERS, WAS TRAGICALLY MURDERED ON THE EVENING OF MAY 30, 1946; HER KILLER LATER COMMITTED SUICIDE. M ISS GODDARD, A FERNDALE TEACHER, RECEIVED AN ANNUAL SALARY OF $780 IN 1937 FOR TEACH- ING IN A RURAL PUBLIC SCHOOL. I N SEPTEMBER 1936, THE FERNDALE SCHOOL BOARD ORDERED STATIONERY SUPPLIES FROM CLARKE & STUART CO., VANCOUVER: @ 3.25 100 SCRIBBLERS 1 GROSS PENPOINTS @ .70 30 BLOTTERS @ .10 T HE “FERNDALE NEWS” COLUMN IN THE PRINCE GEORGE CITIZEN IN THE MID 1940ʼS AND 1950ʼS FREQUENTLY REPORTED ON THE SCHOOLʼS EXTRACUR- RICULAR ACTIVITIES SUCH AS CONCERTS, DANCES AND PARTIES. E N R O L L MENT YEAR 1946 1947 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 # 12 14 13 11 19 16 16 11 9 14 21 23 25 9 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Ferndale Elementary LETTER OF APPLICATION Ferndale School August 1936 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Finlay Forks Elementary LOCATION 1967-1971 The school was located in the Northern Rocky Mountain Trench area near the Finlay River, 120 km from Mackenzie on a radio-controlled logging road at a Carrier Lumber campsite. F i n l ay F o r ks S ch o o l & Te a c h e ra ge 1 971 Courtesy of Harvie Demmitt, teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY The school consisted of a double-wide trailer that housed the intermediate classroom and a singlewide trailer that housed the primary classroom. It was an Indian Affairs financed school run by School District No. 57 (Prince George) personnel. The school was the most northern school in the district. The lumber camp provided the water, power and sewer services for the classroom trailers and teacherages. ENROLLMENT YEAR 1968 1969 1970 1971 GRADES # 1-7 20 1-7 27 1-7 25 1-6 25 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) There was a mix of students ages 6 to 15, in grades 1 to 7, from two Sekani First Nations camps at Finlay Forks and 69 Mile. Forestry and lumber camp children also attended the school. English was the second language of many of the children and some of the older children struggled with reading and writing in English. Stud ents 19 70 Courtesy of Diane (Perrault) Taylor, teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Finlay Forks Elementary Harvie Demmit, the intermediate teacher and head teacher, provided his own vehicle to transport the 69 Mile children to school every morning. The school closed in June 1971 as the area was flooded by the W.A.C. Bennett Dam and the Finlay, Parsnip and Peace River valleys became Williston Lake. Many of the First Nations students went north to Ingenika. Upon closure of the school, the two teachers transferred to Wildwood Elementary in Prince George. Memories Memories of “the road” include following logging trucks for safety. The drivers would radio ahead that we were on the road, as they drove very quickly and the road was very narrow. The road was dust, mud, or snow. Chief Keom Pierre shot a wolf in the schoolyard when the students were outside. Due to the ecological imbalance created by the building of the dam and flooding of the Finlay Forks valley, the deer were in decline …Therefore, the wolves did not have enough deer to hunt and came into the school area looking for food. I was given the hide and still have it. Diane (Perrault) Taylor 2009, teacher A ni ma l Hi des Cur i ng 197 0 Courtesy of Diane (Perrault) Taylor, teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ro ad S i gn , M ac ke n z i e 197 0 Courtesy of Diane (Perrault) Taylor, teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Finlay Forks Elementary The Sekani homes were plywood shacks scattered across a clearing made in the trees and just off the gravel road. The Sekani lived in two different camps and appeared to be roughly split along extended family lines. We had some cold winters when I was there. I especially remember one episode when one of the youngest pupils was licking snow off our large outdoor propane tank when her wet tongue stuck solid to the metal. Before one of the teachers could get to her, her older brother pulled her roughly away from the tank leaving behind the tip of her tongue. The graphic image of red blood against white snow has stayed with me all these years. T obog g ani ng wi t h Ha rv i e 197 0 Courtesy of Diane (Perrault) Taylor, teacher It was so cold one year—minus 66 Fahrenheit— SD 57 Education Heritage Collection we had to close the school for three days. One of the youngest students must have awakened early and, without Mom’s knowledge, made a beeline for the classroom. The fact that she was barefoot and in a light summer dress helped us make the decision to close the school. One of the funnier episodes to happen while I was there involved one of the older Sekani women. We had heard she’d tidied up around the campsite and threw the rubbish into the open fire in front of the cabin. Unbeknownst to her, she’d also swept up a couple of loose bullets which proceeded to explode in the fire. One of the bullets hit her smack in the backside. I happened to be going past on my small motorbike just after the event and was asked to fetch the lumber camp’s first aid officer. On the rush back to her assistance, the first aid attendant was desperately trying to persuade me that it was the principal’s job to remove the bullet in these circumstances…After depositing him at the scene of the accident, I beat a fast retreat! Harvie Demmitt 2009, head teacher Foreman Flats Elementary 1962-1969 Location Going east on the Yellowhead Highway about 15km out of Prince George, the Foreman Flats Road turns left off the highway. Foreman Flats Elementary was situated down Foreman Flats Road in a rural area surrounded by farms and farmland near the Fraser River. The legal description of the school property was: Lot 2, DL6884, CD Plan 12564; title no.19205; 2.0 acres. It was purchased in July 1962. Map of Area History The geographic area and the main Foreman Flats Road were named after a Grand Trunk Pacific Railway supervisor. The train station, built in 1912 and no longer there, was also named after him. The area was developed by Armand Denicola. There were a limited number of students living in that immediate area so the school, which opened in 1962, consisted of a one-room single-wide trailer that was located in a field just off Foreman Road. It had gas lights, running water and indoor plumbing. There was also a log house teacherage with an outhouse nearby. In 1963, the school was changed to a double-wide trailer with electricity and running water. The teacherage was changed to a trailer with electricity, running water and indoor plumbing. The new Foreman Flats school remained open for seven years and was closed in 1969 when the parents voted to send their children by bus to the larger Blackburn Elementary School closer to town. Their hope was that a larger school could offer more in the way of opportunities and activities and so better prepare their children for success at the Prince George Secondary School. Class in Front of the First School SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Foreman Flats Elementary enrollment y ear 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 gra de # 1-7 17 1-6 16 1-7 16 1-6 21 1-6 19 1-5 19 1-6 17 Source: Public Schools A nnual R eport (s) First Teacher Miss Schellenberg 1962-63 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Staff Miss Schellenberg Mrs. G ray Mrs. R ush Mrs. A shwell Mr. Janzen Mr. Mithen Mrs. A rmella Third Teacher Mrs. Rush 1964-65 Planting a Tree SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Mr. Janzen’s Class 1967 Going On a Hike SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Foreman Flats Elementary School Board to Close Small One-room School Another step in the saga of the disappearing little one-room country school was enacted Tuesday. School board officials decided to close Foreman School, eight miles east of Prince George. The school last year had 16 students in six grades and was one of three one room schools in a district of 47 schools. Foreman parents voted 13 to 2 to close the school and enroll their children at Blackburn elementary, six miles east of Prince George. The move has been made possible with improved bus service. Mrs. Frank Armella, the one teacher at the school last year, attended the school board meeting Monday. She told trustees that students will have a fuller course of study at the larger Blackburn school. “It was just not possible to provide as full a program for each of the six grades as there should have been,” she said. Mrs. Armella said the students will also benefit from the broader social environment of a larger school. Three Foreman parents attended the meeting and felt the move will benefit their youngsters. “We could see it was coming for quite awhile,” one of them said, “it was an inevitable move.” Single-wide Trailer with Gas Lights 1963 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection August 27, 1968 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Christmas Concert in Double-wide Trailer mid-1960’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Foreman Flats Elementary Memories Teaching in the one-room portable school at Foreman Flats one winter and spring in 1963-64 was a very unusual experience because I drove from town every morning, in all weather, and home again at night. Any work I hadn’t finished went with me each day. The school was a converted trailer that, fortunately, had running water and a flush toilet, which the teacherage did not have. For winter driving, my car had to be outfitted with chains to be able to manage the several hills along the route. The noise of those chains must have awakened any late sleepers along the way all that winter. Several chains had to be repaired or replaced during that winter as icy conditions would have made it impossible to travel on the hills without them. I had to keep non-perishable groceries on hand at the teacherage just in case an unexpected storm made travelling into town out of the question. I had also taken a sleeping bag out there but I always managed to get home at night. The whole Foreman Flats area was subject to rising water from the Fraser River in the spring. One morning in late May or early June, I arrived at the top of the last hill to discover that the road at the bottom of the hill and the countryside in all directions was covered with flood water from the ordinarily small backwater creek. Even the bridge across the creek was covered. To my assistance and relief, two brothers (pupils) from a nearby trailer appeared rowing a boat across to give me a ride to the other side. This was repeated again after school and each day for most of the month of June. Doreen Gray 2013, retired teacher Christmas Concert 1968 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Fort G eorge Canyon Elementary 1932-1936 Location The school was located on the Fraser River south of Prince George between Red Rock and Stoner. The site was also accessible from the West Lake Road area via Highway 16 West and Blackwater Road. History Fort George Canyon 2012 Courtesy of the Ministry of Forests A one-room school and teacher’s residence were built in 1932-1933. The first teacher was Miss Muriel P. Miller. Other teachers were Alathea Clague, Miss Mary Dell Wilson and Miss Doris G. Heath. The area is a native salmon fishing site of the Leidli T’enneh Nation’s territory. Fort George Canyon has now became a 440 acre provincial Ministry of Forests day-use park made popular by a 4.8 km hiking trail located off West Lake Road on the west side of the river. There is still a paddle winch preserved at the site as sternwheelers in the 1910’s had to navigate around volcanic rock, whirlpools and rapids in the canyon. BX Sternwheeler in Fort George Canyon 1911 BC A rchives #I-57868 Fort George Canyon Provincial Park Map Courtesy of the Ministry of Parks Fort George Canyon Elementary Fort George Canyon Accounts Ledger 1932-1937 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Fraser Flats Elementary 1927-1951 Fraser Flats School 1929 Courtesy of Edna Johnson SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Location Fraser Flats was located on Fraser Flats Road off the Northwood Pulp Mill Road near the CN Railway crossing, about 18 km from Prince George. History The school was a one-room log building built on land donated by Bill Simmons. Art McCabe and other neighbours provided the labour and other building materials. A barrel stove and coal oil lamps and outhouses were provided. In the spring of 1927, the school enrolled grades 1–8 and the first teacher was Fannie (Stevens) Buchanan. Some of the children travelled from Old Summit Lake Road and Goose Country Road to attend the school. Families that lived in the area of the school included the Buchis, Murrays, McCabes, Simmons, Turners, Buchanans, Youngs and Ebeherrs. Early teachers boarded in family homes but a teacherage was built beside the school in later years. The school population varied from eight to twenty-six students. The school was closed in 1938 and reopened in 1942. As the sawmills moved further north, so did the children. When the school closed in 1951, Joan Perry was the teacher. In October 1955, the Fraser Flats School and land were sold to W.G. Boyes. The building burned down and the property was eventually sold to Northwood. Fraser Flats was the predecessor of Shady Valley School. Fraser Flats Elementary enrollment y ear 1945 1947 1948 1949 1950 gra de # 1-7 19 1-7 19 1-8 19 1-8 14 2-9 6 Source: Public Schools A nnual R eport (s) Staff Fannie (Stevens) Buchanan R . B. Williams Mrs. R uth W. Heavener Miss R . P. Brown Miss T. M. Lepine G eorge A . Johnson Mrs. Wosylew Mr. Moore Joan (Perry) Buchi 1936 Insurance Policy SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Fraser Flats Elementary n ucatio 7 Ed SD 5 n llectio e Co ag Herit Memories I went out in the spring of 1927 to teach in Fraser Flats School, a little log school, where we had about twenty-six pupils, grades one to eight. I was there for four years. It was a very small building made by the pioneers of that settlement. All around us were logs which had been felled, but not removed from the school grounds. It was really a community centre. When we had anything going on, such as a Halloween party, a Christmas concert, Valentine party, the parents came and took part in the party as well as the children. Fannie (Stevens) Buchanan Kinney. Prince George University Women’s Club Interview, 1971. Fraser Flats Class 1929 Shady Valley: The Changing Times, 1989 Fraser Flats Elementary Memories In September 1949, I arrived in Prince George, by plane from Vancouver, all excited about my first teaching post. All I knew about it was that it was a log cabin school and teacherage about 7 miles from town. There would be about 14 students from grades 1-8 inclusive. After gathering some groceries in town, I took a taxi and headed for my new “home”. Over the “old” Nechako Bridge onto the just being built Hart Highway (a wide gravel road). Then, the Summit Lake Road which was two cars wide. Then, onto the Fraser Flats Road, a narrow road with grass growing down the middle of it! I remember thinking “one more turn and we’ll be on a cow path”. Fraser Flats Teacherage 1950 Courtesy of Joan (Perry) Buchi, retired teacher The school representative was not at home to give me a key. (I wasn’t aware that Saturday was a “town day” for Prince George people!) My very resourceful driver climbed in a window of the teacherage and opened the door from the inside. After getting me settled, he stopped some neighbours who were on their way home from town and told them he had just delivered the new teacher. These wonderful neighbours stopped and invited me home for supper. Four of their children would be at school next week. One of the older girls walked me home and showed me how to light the gas lamp! What a wonderful start to my 2 years there. I have many fond memories of those years; the deep snow at Halloween, the Christmas Concert and party, school picnics in June. The pupils and area neighbours were so nice that I married a local man, Ivor Buchi and became “one of them”! Joan (Perry) Buchi 2012, retired teacher Fraser Flats Class 1950 Courtesy of Joan (Perry) Buchi, retired teacher Fraserview Elementary 1956-1978 LOCATION Fraserview was located on Boeing Road, off Highway 16, east of Prince George. Fraserview School opened in 1956 and enrolled elementary students from the Airport Hill subdivision. The auto-wreckers, Pinedale, remains in business but, sadly, Fraserview burned to the ground on New Year's Eve, 1978. ...t he lit t le sc h oo l a cr o s s th e r o ad fr o m t he a uto -wr e cke rs wi th a c ar on t he r oo f ... STAF F 1970’s Ray & Maureen Giffin Terry Gayle John Stevens Fra ser view S chool 19 70 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Fraserview School Burns to the Ground! New Yearʼs Eve 1978 Fraserview was one of the last two-room schools close to the city of Prince George. After the fire, the students were bussed to Blackburn Elementary, a mere 5-minute ride away. No thought was given to rebuilding the school. Fraserview Elementary ENROLLME N T YEAR GRADES 1956-57 1-6 1957-58 1-6 1958-59 1-6 1959-60 1-6 1960-61 1-6 1961-62 1-6 1962-63 1-5 1963-64 1-6 1964-65 1-6 1965-66 1-6 1966-67 1-6 1967-68 1-6 1968-69 1-6 1969-70 1-6 1970-71 1-6 1971-72 1-6 1972-73 1-6 1973-74 1-6 1974-75 1-6 1975-76 1-6 1976-77 1-6 1977-78 1-6 1978 1-6 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) # 69 70 62 69 51 68 43 39 41 55 47 45 43 48 52 36 40 31 26 22 24 14 9 T ea cher Jo hn St evens & C la ss of 19 69-7 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection C P Air 737 I ntrig ued M a ny Students The school sat beside the main north-south flight path of the Prince George Regional Airport. The intermediate classroom provided the best view of planes landing and taking off at the airport. Planes intrigued many students. Imagine the excitement when, in the fall of 1968, CPAir (Canadian Pacific Airlines) flew into the airport for the first time with its Boeing 737 brightly painted in its new orange livery. Talk about the teachable moment! Fraserview Elementary SOCIAL LIFE Fraserview, like many other small schools in a rural environment, was the centre of entertainment in the community. Dances, bake sales, card nights, bingo, and other activities were often held by the PTA to raise funds for playground equipment and extra-curricular outings. COMING EVENTS * * * * * Fraserview School will hold a dance Saturday at 9:30 p.m. Proceeds are for the Christmas fund. * * * * * November 17, 1960 Courtesy of FRASERVIEW PTA MEETS Fraserview PTA is sponsoring a car bingo and whist night at Fraserview School April 1 at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $1 for adults and 25 cents for children. Free lunch will be served. Proceeds will go toward playground equipment. All are invited to attend. The Prince George Citizen Annual SCHOOL MEETINGS at Fraserview School — Monday, Nov. 30 Nechako North School — Monday, Nov. 30 Pineview School — Friday, Dec. 4 AT 8:00 P.M. For discussion of school affairs, election of representatives. Trustees will be present. All residents are invited to participate and vote. March 29, 1960 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Notice November 27, 1959 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Gladstone Elementary 7005 Gladstone Drive, Prince George 1 9 7 6 - 2 0 021 MISSION STATEMENT • To assist each child in developing the intellectual knowledge, human and social skills, and positive attitudes needed to contribute to a healthy community. • To create and maintain an environment which recognizes individual potential and promotes positive self-esteem. • To foster in students the desire to be life long learners. Gl ad stone El em entar y 2002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY Gladstone Elementary opened in the fall of 1976 in the College Heights Elementary building. The school on Gladstone Drive was completed in 1977 and classes began there that fall. The school and street are named after William Ewart Gladstone (1809-1891) who was prime minister of Great Britain during the years following Canadian Confederation. The school was well designed with outside exits from each of the nine classrooms. Sliding walls allowed for open-area sharing and each pod had a large wet area. There was a gym, library and, in later years, a computer room. The school had a beautiful playground with a large field, basketball court, treed area and three adventure playgrounds. Enrollment at Gladstone rose steadily through the early 1980s and reached a peak of 379 students in 1991. At the height of its enrollment, there were as many as five portable classrooms. Gladstone Elementary Enrollment fell by over 100 students after the construction of Southridge Elementary, in 1993, when students from St. Lawrence Heights, who had previously attended Gladstone, moved into their new school. Enrollment continued to fall during the 1990’s. When the school closed in June 2002, the school population was the lowest since the school was built. Gladstone students then attended either College Heights Elementary or Malaspina Elementary. After the school closed, it was used as a seniors’ centre, paramedic academy and the District Resource Centre until the fall of 2010. It also housed the Education Heritage Collection of School District No. 57 (Prince George) until 2013. ENR O L L M E N T YEAR 1976 1980 1983 1986 1989 1992 1995 1998 2001 GRADE # K-7 268 K-7 312 K-7 347 K-7 325 K-7 347 K-7 376 K-7 234 K-7 226 K-7 186 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Ha ll oween “Spook t ac ula r” 199 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Gr ad e 6-7 Cl as s 1 986 Courtesy of Sandra Hay, retired teacher STAFF Gladstone Elementary P R I N C I PA L S S ue Diakiw L a r ry Finden A n n e t t e Isbester R i c k Manning L e e Bleecker Lee Bl eec ker , pr incipa l Be t t y Po l s o m, se cr e ta ry 2 002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection F I R S T S TA F F Sue Diakiw Kathy Coyle Sue Carlson Sandi McKinnon Diane Mori Heather Long Debbie Hartley Royce Parker D i n ek e A b e r c r o m b i e Jim Hamilton Cecil Fraser R i c a r d a Va n O r d e n Paulette Cavelin Darrell Johnson Note: Betty Polsom was the school secretary for the entire history of the school. Gl ad stone Sta ff 197 7 Courtesy of Diane Mori, retired teacher Gladstone Elementary SCHOOL SHIFTS FINISHED A papier mache duck, the Gladstone Gander, led the procession as 300 eleM ar ch f ro m C o ll e g e He i g h ts 19 77 mentary pupils trooped from College Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Heights Elementary School to Gladstone Elementary School Thursday. The march marked the end of school shifts for the pupils who have been on the afternoon shift at College Heights Elementary since September while waiting the completion of their new school. Both College Heights and Gladstone will be on regular school days Monday. The youngsters sang “It’s a long, long way to get to Gladstone”–to the tune of Tipperary–as they marched, their arms loaded with school possessions. Some pupils at the front of the parade carried a banner with the name of their new school printed boldly across the front and “Goodbye C.H.” across the back. At the rear of the procession, a sign that said “We’re ape over Gladstone” was carried by creatures wearing ape heads and blue jeans. As they filed out of the College Heights school yard for the last time, the principal, John Stevens, bid farewell to each pupil. There were costumes for the occasion. One class consisted of pirates, another wore homemade hats. There were gypsies, clowns and an assortment of animals. One class carried signs that said “Gladstone here we come” while another had placards insisting Gladstone be kept clean. A lovely luncheon was served afterwards. April 25, 1977 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Gladstone Elementary S P O RT S The staff at Gladstone were very dedicated to providing a wide range of activities for their students. Over the years, there were many programs and extracurricular activities that enriched the school life of the pupils. Some of the sports programs were volleyball, basketball, floor hockey, track and field, relays, Jump Rope for Heart, ski trips to local mountains and swimming lessons. G i r ls V o l le y b al l Te a m 198 0’ s Br i an Ca mpb el l, co ac h SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Jum p Rope for Hea rt 19 90’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Boy s Fl oor Hoc key Team 1 980’ s Lar ry Find en, c oa ch SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Gladstone Elementary CULTURAL ACTIVITIES Debating Club, Drama Club, Library Club, Student Council, Chess Club, Heritage Fair The Gladstone Drama Club performed an original script written by students to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the city of Prince George. Su ffra get t es 1990 Courtesy of Sandra Hay, retired teacher ENRICHMENT Gauss Math, Science Fair, Christmas Concerts, Halloween Spooktaculars, Crazy Hair Days, Fun Fairs, Book Fairs, Spring Concerts, Air Band Concerts, Band Nights and Field Trips were enjoyed over the years. S pr in g Co gram acher red te ay, reti ndra H of Sa ourtesy C Pro nce rt 1 98 9 Sch o o l S ta f f Ap p r e c i at i o n No ti c e 19 90’s Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Gladstone Elementary Did You Know? C AROLYN ROWLAND, A TEACHER AT GLADSTONE FOR MANY YEARS, WAS PRESIDENT OF THE PRINCE GEORGE DISTRICT TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION AND PAT BRADY, A GLADSTONE TEACHER IN THE 1980’S, WAS PRESIDENT OF THE PGDTA, THE BRITISH COLUMBIA TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION AND THE CANADIAN TEACHERS’ FEDERATION. IN HIS RETIREMENT, PAT ALSO SERVED AS THE PRESIDENT OF THE BRITISH COLUMBIA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION AND THE CANADIAN FEDERATION OF RETIRED TEACHERS. M emo ra bi l i a 1 989 -200 0 Courtesy of Sandra Hay, retired teacher Bet t y Keepi ng , Jud y Cro ome, P at Br ad y, Di nek e Ab erc ro mb i e Teac her s on the P ic ket Line 19 80’ s Courtesy of Sandra Hay, retired teacher B ARB SCOBIE, A GLADSTONE PRIMARY TEACHER, MOVED ON TO A PRIMARY SUPERVISORY POSITION IN THE DISTRICT CURRICULUM DEPARTMENT AND KATHIE HILDER, A GLADSTONE TEACHER-LIBRARIAN, BECAME THE PRINCIPAL OF SEVERAL DISTRICT ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS. SUE DIAKIW, THE FIRST PRINCIPAL, HELPED DEVELOP THE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR THE EDUCATION HERITAGE COLLECTION. Gladstone Elementary FINAL S TA F F Lee Bleecker Va l e r i e A n d e r s o n Brian Anderson Sheila Ormond Linda Ireland Betty Keeping John Leitch Mike Brennan Barb Nash S chool St a ff 200 2 Courtesy of Brian Anderson, retired teacher Memories What could cause a sunny, tranquil Friday lunch hour at the end of September to turn to chaos on the school playground in a matter of 60 seconds? Students jammed the tiny medical room and staff room; supervisors were ripping jerseys off students; the principal, secretary and a primary teacher were contacting the School Board Office, parents and, as the situation quickly worsened, 911. An intermediate teacher leapt up on the office counter with a clutch of papers and began smacking at the ceiling tiles while other staff members closed the office doors to seal off the office area from the remainder of the school. Teachers, teacher assistants and a volunteer parent immediately tended to the students, some calm, some eerily quiet, others barely containing their hysteria. The principal sent a staff member to the playground to track down the intermediate brother of a young primary student with a serious allergy. The directions: “Find your brother, take him home immediately, call the school as soon as you arrive safely. The school has contacted your mother. She’s on her way home!” What was the source of all this mayhem? An intermediate student, while playing, had inadvertently landed on a wasp’s nest on the Adventure Playground. While he was stung twenty-six times, another 20 students were also stung. Wasps were in their clothing and one grade 6 girl had them crawling through her long hair at the nape of her neck. The firefighters arrived, moving reassuringly from student to student, assessing each child’s degree of risk. When the ambulance arrived, approximately 10 students were transported to the hospital where they were treated and released. Staff headed back to work, adrenalin pumping, attempting to re-focus from the school office being an ER to class as usual. Kathie Hilder 2012, retired teacher. Goat River Elementary 1948-1950 G o a t Ri v e r C N R a i lw a y S t at i o n 1 970’ s LOCATION Courtesy of Kent Sedgwick UNBC Upper Fraser Geography Project The school was located 150 kilometres southeast of Prince George on Highway 16, 25 kilometres west of McBride. It was a flag stop on the CN railway close to the Fraser River and Goat River. HISTORY The school was housed in a temporary building near the railway station house. There were 9 students in grades 1 – 7. In the spring of 1949 Inspector Williston of the McBride School District declared this building unsafe for students. In a letter to the Deputy Minister and Superintendent of Education in Victoria, William H. Grant, Inspector of Schools, Prince George, gave the McBride School District until December 1, 1949 “to have the building put into a reasonable condition for use, and, after that date, if this is not done, I will recommend that the Department close it” and so the school was closed in 1950. The station house was last occupied by a CN maintenance man in 1978 and was finally demolished in the 1980’s. The provincial rest area on Highway 16 at the Goat River Bridge is the approximate location of the original community, which was part of the Historic Goat River Trail connecting Barkerville to McBride. It actually had the only active gold mine in the area in the 1940’s. Goat River Elementary MCBRIDE ACCOUNT LEDGER 1949-1950 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Haldi R oad Elementary 1978-2002 5877 Leslie Road, Prince George Mission Statement Through excellence in teaching and educational leadership, the staff of Haldi Road School will endeavour to meet individual student needs by providing achievable activities and supportive feedback for the purposes of strengthening each child’s knowledge, skill, self-concept and sense of worth. History Haldi Road Elementary 1980’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Haldi Road Elementary was built as a result of the 1975 fire at Vanway Elementary that destroyed the older parts of that school. Parents petitioned the school board for some of the capacity lost at Vanway to be put into a new school in the Haldi Road area. They were successful in their endeavour and half of that space went into the new site on Haldi Road. During 1978/79, Haldi Road was on shift at Vanway Elementary with the official opening of their new building occurring on October 10, 1979. It was attended by Prince George mayor Elmer Mercier, school district superintendent Alvin Myhre, various school district personnel and Richard Potter, the first principal of Haldi Road Elementary. Opening Ceremony 1979 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Haldi Road Elementary When first built, the school was surrounded by trees and the only flat area for the students to play on was the blacktop next to the building. Over the years, the community and school district helped establish a full-sized playing field, a regular playground and an adventure playground. With just four classrooms, the classes were always split grades: K-1, 2-3, etc. The class sizes were small and having the same students for two years gave the teachers a chance to really get to know each student’s strengths and weaknesses. In June 2002, Haldi Road Elementary was closed as part of the school district’s consolidation plan. The remaining students were sent to Vanway Elementary and the school building was eventually sold and converted into a residence. Building the Playground 1990’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection enrollment y ear 1978 1983 1989 1993 1998 2001 gra de # K-7 102 K-7 85 K-7 69 K-7 73 K-7 94 K-7 75 Source: Public Schools A nnual R eport (s) Grade 6/7 Class 1978-79 Courtesy of Wendy Thiel, retired teacher Haldi Road Elementary Early Staff Bill Elder Wendy Thiel Bev R owe Betty Offin Jackie Trofanenko Brian Chappell Judy Croome Principals R ichard Potter Bryan Kineshanko Bruce Walkey Brian Chappell G ail Walraven There was also half-time staff that worked as secretary, principal relief, learning assistant, teacherlibrarian and K/1 aide. Haldi Road Staff 1978-79 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Sports The grade 6 and 7 students formed teams in sports such as basketball and played games against other elementary schools. They were known as the Haldi Hounds. Students also took part in elementary school relays at Massey Place Stadium and in the Elementary Track and Field Day. Haldi Hounds 2000’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Haldi Road Elementary Did You Know? H aldi Road had the attributes of both a neighbourhood school and a country school. School events were community events and there was great support by parents. The school’s 10th birthday celebration included a potluck dinner followed by a family dance. H I aldi Road was active in fundraising for several good causes. The school received recognition for contributing to UNICEF and the Rick Hanson “Man in Motion Tour”. n 1998, the teacher-librarian, Mrs. Elda Armstrong, won an Apple computer for the school through a raffle held by the B.C. Teacher-Librarians’ Association. Apple Computer Rep I Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen A ugust 28, 1998 n December 1999, in honour of Haldi Road’s 20th year in their own school, they held various events. During the pancake breakfast, Santa arrived in a helicopter and CBC Radio broadcast their morning show from the school. There was also a special Christmas concert. As well, the school made a millennium time capsule containing memories from all of the principals, a T-shirt signed by the students plus a dishcloth marked with a stick figure and the name of each K-1 student. Millennium Time Capsule Items 1999 Courtesy of A leta MacFadden, retired teacher Haldi Road Elementary Activities In the spring of 1980, the school held an Easter bonnet parade and spring concert. The grade 2/3 students, costumed in outfits sewn by parents, performed two folk dances that they had learned for the district festival. A dditionally, there were songs by the primary choir, presentations of choral speaking, two short plays and individual performances. Students in the upper grades often expressed themselves through the production of a school newspaper. In1985, the grade 7 class created an eighteen-page newspaper called the “School Scoop” that included items from all grades. The grade 6/7 students wrote opinion paragraphs on such topics as “G ossip” and “Should teachers be replaced with computers?”. The grade 3/4 students wrote about their pets and the early grades were asked why they liked Prince G eorge. Their responses included: Haldi Road Grade 2/3 Folk Dancers 1980 Courtesy of Wendy Thiel, retired teacher “The people are nice and it doesn’t rain as much as Vancouver.” ~ Jasmine DeMarcos “You can go out to your cabin; you can go boat riding.” ~ Kevin Cutler “I can go shopping in lots of stores.” ~ Swanee Tobin Haldi Road Elementary The performing arts were always encouraged at Haldi R oad. There was always at least one choir and sometimes both a primary and intermediate one. Under the leadership of choir director Ms. Jackie Trofanenko, the choirs took part in school concerts plus SD 57’s Singfest and Christmas Nights of Music. Haldi Road Choir 1998 Courtesy of Jackie Trofanenko, retired teacher In their P.E. classes, students learned Highland dancing and A lison R ebinsky was brought in to teach a unit on “Dances Thru the Decades” to the intermediate classes. The dances included the Charleston, G rand March and Jive and were performed for the school at the conclusion of the unit. Haldi Road Swings Courtesy of Prince G eorge This Week November 7, 1999 Haldi Road Elementary Memories Set in a rural area of two to ten acre lots, the school quickly became a meeting place for the community with programs for parents, tots, after school arts and craft classes, Brownie packs, etc. The outside railing for cars was often used as a hitching post for horses. During the winter months, cross-country skis that had brought the students to class were perched in the school storage room until they were needed for the home trek. The winter of 1982 was a memorable one for an Australian exchange teacher at Haldi Road. The weather was so cold that the propane tank providing the school with heat had jelled and would not function. After moving to the library, in the centre of the school, and spending the morning trying to teach coat-clad shivering students in dipping temperatures, the decision was made to send students to their own warm homes. Clearly, soaking towels in boiled water and draping them over the giant propane tank was not a solution in these temperatures! The Aussie from sub-tropical Queensland had a unique story to tell everyone about teaching in Canada! Wendy Thiel 2013, retired teacher While on shift at Vanway, students walked over to view their new school being built. Nobody could fault the great natural setting of the school and several little ones asked, expectantly, if the big excavation next to the side of the building site was going to be a swimming pool–the school district’s first! Richard Potter 2013, retired principal Perhaps the first things that come to mind are field trips and fund-raising. Going to Vancouver and seeing “Joseph [and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat]” at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre certainly was a highlight. Getting the school in the fund-raising mode–magazines and Christmas wrap–helped provide the students with additional cultural and field trip experiences. Bruce Walkey 2013, retired principal Haldi Road Elementary The Whole School 1994 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Haldi Road Staff Christmas 1998 Courtesy of Jackie Trofanenko, retired teacher Hansard Elementary 1939-1958 Ha nsa rd Ferr y Cr oss ing 1945 LOCATION The Exploration Place P982.40.21 The school was located 62 km east of Prince George on the north side of the Fraser River, near the junction of the Fraser and Bowron Rivers. It was 5 kilometres from Upper Fraser on the CN Railway. HISTORY The community was named after Hugh Hazen Hansard, a Grand Trunk Pacific Railway solicitor. It was a sawmill community that was reached by a pontoon ferry across the Fraser River. The current of the river powered the ferry. Kelly La Voie and Margaret Clark, district consultants, recall on their way to Sinclair Mills in the 1960’s, that you took a little ferry at Hansard when the water was open. You would go out and blow your horn madly and eventually someone would arrive. They’d bring the ferry across. You’d drive your car onto the ferry and they’d sail you across the river. The school, a 36’ x 20’ frame building, was located 2 km west of town on a one-acre lot donated by a member of the community. Some controversy developed between the owner and the Department of Education over the title of the land. Mr. Johnson and Mr. Osterburg directed the building of the school in 1939. The first teacher was Miss K.M. Richardson of Victoria. The one-room school was closed in 1947. It was then reopened from 1952-1958. Hansard Elementary ENROLL M E N T YEAR 1945 1946 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 GRADE # 1-8 16 1-8 8 1-8 9 1-8 9 K-7 9 K-7 11 2-6 11 1-8 12 E A R LY S TA F F Miss K.M. Richardson Mrs. Eleanor B. Stewart Mrs. Harold Toplis Mrs. Ella Cannon Miss E.S. Thompson Miss W. Davidson Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) SCHOOL HAS CHARM FOR RURAL STUDENT HANSARD old golden school days” to some is evidenced in the case of 15-year-old Marie Hansen of Hansard. Records held by Ray G. Williston, supervising principal of Prince George schools, show that Marie was never late nor did she ever miss any school day in her first eight years attendance at Hansard School. pupils of Hansard school and their teacher, Mrs. E. Cannon, brought in $99.10. After all expenses were paid a sum of $77 remained; $15 was sent to the Junior Red Cross for crippled children, and the remaining $62 is in a trust account as a fund toward buying a piano for the Hansard School. May 1, 1947 July 4, 1946 The Prince George Citizen The Prince George Citizen Proof that school days can be “dear Courtesy of A dance and bazaar put on by Courtesy of Hansard Elementary HANSARD SCHOOL DISTRICT MINUTES & ACCOUNTS 1939-1945 Expenses for 1945-46 Bank of Montreal Cancelled Cheque 1945 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Hansard Elementary HANSARD SCHOOL DISTRICT MINUTES & ACCOUNTS 1939-1945 School Meeting Minutes 1943 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Hart Highway Elementary 3955 Hart Highway, Prince George “The Route to Lifelong Learning” 1952-2002 MISSION STATEMENT The students in this school will be given every opportunity to develop to their full potential within a cooperative, healthy environment. H ar t H i ghwa y El ement a ry 19 80 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY Hart Highway Elementary, sometimes referred to as John Hart Highway Elementary, was originally a two-room school built in the early 1950’s and was one of the first elementary schools north of the Nechako River. A new building was opened in 1955 and was added to in 1959, 1963, 1970 and 1981. The 1963 addition almost doubled the size of the school. In 1970, the gymnasium and stage were added. In 1981, the office and staffroom were renovated. These various additions created some strange little storage areas. The school layout was based on a long hallway with four primary classrooms at one end, the office, staffroom and four intermediate classrooms in the middle and the library, two classrooms with a gym at the other end. By the 1980’s, two classrooms had been converted into a computer lab and a learning assistance centre. A tunnel under Hart Highway was built in the 1970’s to try and prevent students from crossing the busy highway. However, many students continued to cross the highway, as vandals often broke the lights in the dark tunnel. Hart Highway Elementary ENROLLME N T YEAR 1952 1953 1954 1955 1961 1965 1972 1980 1985 1990 1995 1999 2000 2001 GRADE # 1-6 52 1-5 54 1-4 58 1-6 155 1-7 185 1-7 390 K-7 387 K-7 288 K-7 246 K-7 260 K-7 298 K-7 245 K-5 182 K-5 154 C la ss 195 6 B i ll F i sh e r , te a ch e r SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) PRINC I PA L S Bill Fisher Vi c M o w b r a y B i l l Vo t h Do n C h a m b e r l a i n To m P i d c o c k Ed Bell Te d D a n y l u k Clint Buhr David Bond Annette Isbester Bud Burbee Gerry Sheanh Staff 198 6 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Early Staff Mrs. D. Bishop and Mr. R. Davies Mrs. E. Lees Mr. Fisher and Miss Bydlowski Mrs. H. Holmes Mr. S. Stockley Hart Highway Elementary Sports The school’s team name was the Hart Highway Hawks. It was hoped that students would adopt some of the hawk’s qualities. They were encouraged to be keen-eyed and focused on their goals and achievements, to be strong in their ability to learn and play and to have a soaring spirit. Mrs. Pollard, one of the school’s custodians, painted two hawks, designed in the Haida style, on one of the gym walls in 1997. Log o on Gy m W al l 1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection S p ir i t o f t h e H a w k 1 9 9 5 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection School teams included volleyball, basketball, floor hockey, badminton and wrestling. Students also had the opportunity to participate in three cross-country running events each year at schools such as Beaverly, Ron Brent (held at Fort George Park), Edgewood, Glenview and College Heights. Teams of students also participated in the annual District relays held at Massey/Masich Stadium. Terr y Fox Run 1 996 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Boy s Ba sk et ba ll 19 97 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection A special sports event was the annual Terry Fox Run. In September 1995, the school held their first run and the students spent time one afternoon running around the school. As students passed the front entrance, they could drop a donation into a box. They raised $280 for the Canadian Cancer Society. C ros s C ountry Run 19 96 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Hart Highway Elementary The school organized a Turkey Trot each year where students, parents and other family members were invited to trot, run or walk on the field behind the school. It was held from 8:00 am - 8:25 am each day from mid-September until Thanksgiving. Participants filled in an entry form for every lap they completed. Names were drawn for prizes and in October 2000, the prizes were four turkeys, ten pumpkin pies, four pumpkin cakes and two apple pies. Tur key Trot 2 000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Turk ey Trot Winner s 2 000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ha wks T-shir ts 19 90’ s J um p Rope for Hear t 199 7 J ess ica Jea nnot t e SD 57 Education Heritage Collection SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Another special sports event was Jump Rope for Heart. In the 1995/96 Jump Rope for Heart event, the students raised $3600. Then in 1996-1997, 74 students raised $3700 with nine students collecting over $100 each. Jessica Jeannotte raised $509. In 1997/98, 108 students raised $4500 and Jessica Jeannotte collected $526 with all proceeds going to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Hart Highway Elementary Did You Know? T HE HART HIGHWAY P.T.A. WAS CREATED ON FEBRUARY 27, 1956 WITH MR. CAMERON ELECTED AS PRESIDENT. THERE WERE 29 CHARTER MEMBERS THAT EACH PAID $1.00 IN DUES. THEY HELD REGULAR FUND-RAISERS, INCLUDING REGULAR DANCES AT THE GATEWAY SUPPER CLUB, IN ORDER TO SPONSOR THE CUBS, SCOUTS, BROWNIES AND GUIDES. THEY ALSO BEGAN GIVING A BOOK TO THE CLASS THAT HAD THE MOST PARENTS ATTENDING EACH MEETING. PTA Minutes 1 956 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I N SEPTEMBER 1963, A GROUP OF GRADE 7 STUDENTS WAS TRANSFERRED FROM THE ONE-ROOM SCHOOL IN SALMON VALLEY TO MR. MOWBRAY’S CLASS AT HART HIGHWAY. EACH DAY THESE STUDENTS HAD TO CATCH A SCHOOL BUS AT 7:10 AM AND DIDN’T ARRIVE HOME UNTIL 4:30 PM. MANY TIMES IN THE WINTER THEY WERE G ra de 6 & 7 C la ss 196 4 M r. M owb ra y, t eac her & pri nc i pal STRANDED BECAUSE THE BUS WOULD BREAK DOWN. SD 57 Education Heritage Collection P RINCIPAL DON CHAMBERLAIN BELIEVED STRONGLY THAT STUDENTS WOULD DO BETTER ACADEMICALLY WITH MORE PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND INSTITUTED A MANDATORY ONE-HOUR A DAY P.E. PROGRAM. IT ENDED WHEN MR. CHAMBERLAIN LEFT THE SCHOOL BUT, BECAUSE OF THE PROGRAM, THERE WAS PROBABLY MORE EQUIPMENT IN THE GYM THAN ANYWHERE ELSE IN THE DISTRICT. Hart Highway Elementary W HEN CLINT BUHR WAS PRINCIPAL, HE HAD A LARGE AREA PAVED WITH ASPHALT AND PAINTED WITH LINES FOR NUMEROUS GAMES. IT BECAME A VERY POPULAR AREA BE- CAUSE HE WOULD GO OUTSIDE AT RECESS AND LUNCH TO TEACH THE STUDENTS THOSE GAMES. B EHIND THE SCHOOL, THE FIELD BACKED ONTO A STEEP, HEAVILY TREED HILL. FOR A FEW YEARS, THE ANNUAL SPORTS DAY BEGAN WITH THE STUDENTS RUNNING UP THE HILL, DIS- APPEARING INTO THE TREES AND COMING BACK DOWN THE HILL ON THE OTHER END OF THE FIELD. ONE YEAR, THE GRADE 7 STUDENTS ENTHUSIASTICALLY HEADED UP INTO THE TREES THAT WAS THE LAST YEAR FOR THAT SPORTS DAY ACTIVITY. AND IMMEDIATELY CAME RUNNING BACK, YELLING “BEAR!”. I N MAY 1992, THE GRADE 5/6 CLASS WENT TO BARKERVILLE FOR TWO DAYS. THE STUDENTS VISITED THE 1872 SCHOOLHOUSE, TOOK PART IN A COURT-HOUSE DRAMA WITH JUDGE BEGBIE, WATCHED A DEMONSTRATION OF THE “CORNISH WATER WHEEL”, WENT GOLD PANNING AND VISITED WELLS AND ITS MUSEUM. Fiel d T r ip t o Bar ker vil le 1 992 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection E ARLY IN NOVEMBER 1994, FREDA AND FRED- DIE AND THEIR 31 BROTHERS AND SISTERS AR- RIVED IN MR. BRIGNALL’S CLASS AS SALMON EGGS. THEY WERE NURTURED ALL WINTER AND THEN THE CLASS TOOK THEM TO THE SALMON RIVER IN THE SPRING AND RELEASED THEM. L ACEY CLOAREC HAD HER STORY “AN ADVENTURE ON SATURN” SELECTED FOR THE 1995 SCHOOL DISTRICT’S “ANTHOLOGY OF TALENTED YOUNG WRITERS”. F IVE MINUTES OF CLASSICAL MUSIC PLAYED OVER THE P.A. SYSTEM INTO EVERY CLASSROOM EACH MORNING IN 1997-98. MRS. HARRIS’S GRADE 6/7 CLASS CHOSE THE MUSIC AND ALSO READ INFORMATION ABOUT THE MUSIC AND THE COMPOSER BEFORE EACH PIECE WAS PLAYED. Su p e r st a r Bu tt o n SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Hart Highway Elementary R ON CHARLIE, ADAM HICKEY AND MATTHEW SASTAUNIK DESIGNED A VEHICLE, USING A MOUSETRAP, THAT TRAVELED THE GREATEST DISTANCE IN THE SCHOOL DISTRICT’S TECH 97 PROBLEM-SOLVING CHALLENGE. AT THE SAME CHALLENGE, HOLLY AMBROSE, MORGAN NAHORNOFF, ALEYSCHIA CROFTS AND MEGHAN WOLF WERE FIRST IN THE TOWER OF BABBLE EVENT. THEY HAD TO USE THREE METRES OF MASKING TAPE AND FIFTY SHEETS OF NEWSPAPER TO BUILD A TOWER ON TOP OF ONE OF THEIR TEAM MEMBER’S HEADS. THEIR TOWER WAS TWO METRES TALL. Mo use t r ap C ar R ac e 199 7 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection A PEER HELPING PROGRAM WAS BEGUN IN 1997. TWELVE STUDENTS IN GRADES SIX AND SEVEN WERE TRAINED TO HELP STUDENTS THAT WERE IN CONFLICT TO SOLVE THEIR PROBLEMS. THEY SPENT RECESS AND LUNCH ASSISTING STUDENTS TO REACH WIN-WIN SOLUTIONS. F OR MANY YEARS THERE WAS A BUDDY READING PROGRAM WHERE OLDER STUDENTS WOULD READ TO YOUNGER STUDENTS AT LEAST ONCE A WEEK. IN 1999, MRS. GWEN PITTS COORDINATED A STUDENT READING PROGRAM. THE STUDENTS IN THE PROGRAM SPENT A TOTAL OF 145,381 MINUTES (14.42 WEEKS) READING. THE PARENT ADVISORY COUNCIL SPONSORED THE PRIZES FOR THE Bud dy Read ing 199 6 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection READERS. Hart Highway Elementary I N SEPTEMBER 2001, THREE CLASSES VISITED THE HORSEFLY RIVER WHERE THE SALMON WERE SPAWNING. THEY PARTICIPATED IN A VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES TO GIVE THEM AN APPRECIATION OF WHAT THE SALMON FACE ON THEIR TRIP UP THE RIVER. THEY ALSO WERE GIVEN A CLOSER LOOK AT THE ANATOMY OF A SALMON INCLUDING THE EGGS. Fis h Lad der Sim ula t ion 200 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection O N JUNE 1, 2001, THE SCHOOL HELD A TALENT SHOW WITH 22 ACTS AND 47 STUDENTS TAKING PART. STUDENTS REHEARSED AT LUNCH HOUR ALMOST EVERY DAY FOR 3-4 WEEKS TO GET READY FOR THE SHOW. S al mon Di ss ect i on 2 001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I N OCTOBER 2001, CANADIAN AUTHOR ERIC WILSON VISITED THE SCHOOL. HE SHOWED SLIDES FROM HIS CHILDHOOD AND TALKED ABOUT HOW AND WHERE HE WRITES HIS MYSTERIES. HE ASKED QUESTIONS AND GAVE OUT AUTOGRAPHED POSTCARDS FOR EACH COR- RECT ANSWER. HE ALSO ASKED STUDENTS TO STUDENTS LATER WROTE SOLVE A MYSTERY. THANK YOU LETTERS AND RECEIVED A THANK Author Er ic Wil s on Visit 2 001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection YOU POSTCARD IN RETURN. Hart Highway Elementary Pi n & R i b bo n SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I N NOVEMBER 2001, A PARENT STARTED A CAMPAIGN TO RETURN GRADE 6 TO THE K–5 SCHOOL. IN HIS LETTER, HE WROTE, “THIS YEAR WE LOST A TEACHER…IF THIS PATTERN CONTINUES THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT HART HIGHWAY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL COULD EVENTUALLY BE CLOSED…”. THIS DID INDEED OCCUR JUST SEVEN MONTHS LATER. L as t S ta f f 20 02 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Hart Highway Elementary Memories I was in a grade 5/6 class in 1955-56 and I was one of thirteen in grade 6. My teacher was Mr. Fisher and he was going to get married that summer so he was usually in a good mood. My friends and I had an extra scribbler in which we wrote notes to each other and passed them around while Mr. Fisher was teaching the grade 5’s. We thought we were being clever by using our first initials to disguise our names. We were LuLu, HaHa, BeBe, KaKa etc. One day when we arrived at school there was an extra ‘friend’ who had made a comment in our book and signed it TeTe. It was Mr. Fisher. Luella Dondale 2002, former student I attended Hart Highway Elementary from 1967-1974. I also have nine brothers and sisters and several nieces and nephews that attended the school. We had a family member at the school for five different decades starting with my brother Kurt in 1960 and ending with my nephew Cody in 2002. Debbie (McDermid) Wong 2002, former student I loved Hart Highway Elementary for the seven years I attended, D e b b i e ( M c D e r m i d ) W o n g SD 57 Education Heritage Collection from 1993 to 1999. In Kindergarten, Mrs. Sweet helped boost my confidence. In grade 1, we did lots of fun activities and Mrs. Fredin thought I could do grade 2 work. In grade 2, I remember the chicks hatching. In grade 3, Mrs. Babulal was always making us laugh by climbing on the tables and singing. Once she spilled coffee down her shirt so she wore it backwards for the rest of the day. I loved grade 4 because we got letter grades on our report cards, we learned about the explorers and we wrote huge stories. In grade 5, I played school basketball and in grade 6 I remember Titanic Day and our trip to Mt. Robson. Alison Thorp 2002, former student I attended Hart Highway from 1975-1983 and have many fond memories. I enjoyed helping the teachers, parents and other classmates build the fitness trail and the years of cross-country training on the trail. I appreciated being pushed to be the best that I could be and because of that I joined basketball, track and wrestling. I was taught that I could do anything as long as I tried and practiced. Jackie (Wilchek) MacMillan 2002, former student Hart Highway Elementary I began teaching at Hart Highway Elementary in 1974 as the principal relief in a grade 7 classroom, teaching three hours in the morning while Don Chamberlain did administrative work. I took a full-time position in 1976 and in 1977 I accepted the teacher-librarian position. I soon discovered that many of the books were not catalogued properly, if at all. I was permitted to hire two people (both were mothers with children in the school) to go through the entire library, check every book, and cross-reference their card in the card catalogue. We also had to remove cards for any books that had been long-ago discarded. It took all year. I returned to the classroom the following year and everyone wondered why I had left (except the two mothers who had helped all year)! Har t Hi ghw ay St aff 1 975 Courtesy of Susan Ingraham, retired teacher There was a tradition at Hart Highway to take the grade 7 students on a camping trip at the end of the school year. I was not keen on being involved in this but the first year that I taught full time I felt an obligation and agreed to go out to Camp McInnis. I found the entire experience unnerving. A girl tipped her canoe and at first we couldn’t see her because she was under the canoe (there was a qualified lifeguard but I felt helpless just watching); as I watched, a boy narrowly missed driving the axe into his leg while chopping wood; there were also insect bites and homesick students. I got little sleep as I checked on students throughout the night. The final morning, I was awakened by a moose who calmly walked among the tents; it was the best part of the trip. I never assisted on another overnight camping trip with students – I far preferred the classroom. Susan Ingraham 2011, retired teacher Hart Highway Elementary In 1983, Bill Vander Zalm was Minister of Education and schools were facing cutbacks – yes, then too! As a result of a discussion of the impact of the cuts, students in one class at Hart Highway were assigned the task of writing letters to the Minister but they were not to be mailed. One student took his letter home. The parent read it and mailed it to Mr. Vander Zalm. Needless to say, some unpleasantness ensued before the issue was laid to rest. John Stevens 2002, retired Assistant Superintendent J ohn Steve ns Retired As sis tant Super intendent 200 2 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I was a student teacher at Hart Highway Elementary in 1998. The staff showed love, commitment SD 57 Education Heritage Collection and dedication. Later, as a teacher-on-call, Hart Highway was my favourite school to work at. I always felt welcome and respected there. During 2000-2001, I had the honour and privilege of teaching the K/1 class. This was my first teaching contract in the school district. I was able to witness, on a daily basis, all the wonderful qualities that the staff had that made the school so fantastic! This is where my teaching mentors lived! Hart Highway will always be near and dear to my heart. Ha rt Hig hway Sc hool Sig n 20 02 Janice Walberg 2002, teacher Highland Elementary 155 McDermid Drive, Prince George 1967-2003 Mission Statement To provide an excellent academic education in a Traditional School format balanced with a keen regard for the social and emotional growth of our students. Highland Elementary 1978 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History Highland Elementary was named after the subdivision, Highland Park, where it is located. Many of the streets in this area have Scottish names beginning with “Mc”. Originally the school’s attendance boundaries were 1st Avenue, Ospika Boulevard and Tabor Boulevard including the Sterling Estates. Highland Elementary opened in 1967 with a student population of 393. The classrooms were large. Each room had a sink and counter, two enclosed cupboards, wide drawers, multiple bookshelves and a built-in coat rack. The walls had cork panels for displays and two windows to let in natural light. The gymnasium sported a raised stage for performances and a sprung wood floor for athletics. Downstairs a full basement housed everything and anything. Highland was well designed for both students and teachers and, aside from some roof leaks as the school aged, the building served the population well. In June 1978, there was a fire that destroyed several classrooms and damaged the library. It took several months to rebuild with the other classrooms opening in September. In 1999 the school’s name was changed to Highland Traditional School. In 2003 the school had 183 students and, as part of the cutbacks in the district, it was closed. The students were relocated to Heritage or Quinson Elementary Schools. The Northern Health Authority, Aboriginal Education Department and YMCA Highland Family Development Centre now occupy the building. Highland Elementary ENROLLMENT YEAR 1967 1973 1976 1981 1986 1992 2098 2002 GRADE # 1-7 393 K-7 536 K-7 494 K-7 378 K-7 312 K-7 295 K-7 251 K-7 183 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Kindergarten class 1976-1977 Ann Vicente, teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection PRINCIPALS Don Currie Ed Swaren Mark Cramer Colin Scott Geoff Eacott Rusty Rustemeyer Art Webb Grade 7 class 1995-1996 Bob Armstrong, teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection VICE PRINCIPALS Bryan Kineshanko Orville Brown Conrad Kowalenko Rick DeBelser Lorraine Burns Julie MacRae Highland Elementary The Highland staff boasted a core of supportive, friendly and thoughtful people who were more friends than co-workers. Someone was always willing to share an idea, find something for you, help you move a table, or loan you materials. Many arrived early and left late, volunteered their time for extra-curricular activities, and some kept the mood light with their antics. First staff 1967 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Early staff members included Gordon Harris, Janice Bell, Mary Bjorgaard, Linda Hunter, Janice Wharrie, Cindy Swan, Diane Taverner, Barbara Ellison, Don Currie, Ed Swaren, Mark Cramer, Colin Scott, Joyce Short, David Bruce, Maurice Vignal, Colleen (Swift) Crossfield, Bonnie (Jones) Lamb, Joan Botten, Bryan Kineshanko, Tom Crow, Dennis McGill, Bob Armstrong, Wayne Power, Ann Vicente, Evonne Crawchuk, Christine Morris, Collette Bruce, Helen Kowalenko, Conrad Kowalenko, Dave King, Marnie McNab, Darryl Johnson, Cheryl Mikulasik and Cathy Knipe. Highland staff 2000-2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Highland Elementary SPORTS Students had the opportunity to be involved in various sports including volleyball, basketball, floor hockey, track and field and the Massey/Masich Place relays. Students also participated in swimming lessons, Jump Rope for Heart, Canada Fitness and the Turkey Trot that was started by principal, Colin Scott. Girls’ Floor Hockey team 1982-1983 Conrad Kowalenko, coach SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Boys’ Volleyball team 1984 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The house teams were chosen, from some Scottish names, by the students in the different teams. The house team “Gordon” was named after Mr. Gordon Harris, a teacher who taught at Highland Elementary in 1968. Each team had a shield drawn by Miss Neverveld. Mrs. MacPherson wrote to Scotland to obtain her clan’s tartan material. The students raised money for the material by showing films during the lunch hours. Students get in condition for track meet May 10, 1972 Courstesy of the Prince George Citizen Highland Elementary ACTIVITIES There were many activities that enriched the lives of the students. These included the library club, student council, chess club, Science Fair, Christmas and spring concerts, the talent show, speech arts and drama festivals and caring for class pets. Field trips included downhill and crosscountry skiing, ice skating, camping and the railway museum. Spring Concert May 1983 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Science Fair & Chess Club 1985 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Field Trip to Railway Museum 1988 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Grade 6 & 7 camping trip 1980 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Highland Elementary Did You Know? September 17, 1996 Courstesy of the Prince George Citizen H A eather Hanik went on to graduate from UBC with a bachelor of science in Chemistry and Biochemistry. She then completed the veterinary medicine program in Saskatoon. notable community member was Josie Smith who led the Wonderland Players theatre group in Prince George. She sometimes held rehearsals at Highland. There was a plaque donated by her daughter that had her photo on it and an outline of Josie’s contributions. It hung in the school’s hallway. Truth Without Fear Highland Traditional School Crest 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Highland Elementary Memories The devastating fire in 1978 brought out the best in everyone. When the staff weren’t allowed access to the building and were relegated to a waterless portable, the neighbours across the street opened their house to us. They provided access to a washroom, and then set up a coffee pot in another gesture of kindness. One teacher whose classroom had burned had her completed report cards sitting on her desktop intact, except for water and smoke damage. Several teachers laboriously recopied the reports (by hand in those days) so they could be sent home on time. June 20, 1978 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Rebuilding after the fire took months and one day, while workmen tackled re-roofing, a heavy rainstorm filled my classroom with water. It came bucketing down from above and a call for help led to a novel solution. Workmen deployed a wheelbarrow to the back of my class to collect the water, and I was advised to empty it several times a day until the roof renovation was completed. I did exactly that, pushing the wheelbarrow out the door when it became precariously full, tipping it out on the field, pushing it back inside, and repositioning it under the leak. Another rainy day, a practical joker popped into my classroom and wrote a chalkboard message which read “Happy 60th Birthday”. Of course, it wasn’t my birthday and I was 32 at the time, but my students swallowed it hook, line and sinker. Staff relations were typically cheerful and many friendships that began at Highland continue to this day. Linda Hunter 2016, retired teacher Highland Elementary Teacher Mary Bjorgaard leads reading group April 4, 1974 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Many years after the fire, my class suffered an after effect. The steam heat was off in the school and a work crew was coming to fix it. I was in the kindergarten room, the crew arrived and I could hear the heat starting just as we were leaving for the gym. When we came back from the gym, we looked in the room and large strips of paint were covering the floor. The steam had loosened the special paint that had been put on the ceiling to cover the soot and smoke damage. My class all went home telling their parents that the ceiling had fallen down. My kindergarten class didn’t have a pet, but we did have a bin of worms for composting. The students had become very good about putting their food scraps from their snacks in the worm bin. Then, December arrived and most of them were bringing mandarin oranges for snack. During the Christmas holidays, I went to school one afternoon to get ready for January. There were worms all over the floor. I opened the bin and more of them were collected on the inside of the lid. The soil was too acidic and they were all trying to escape. Fortunately I managed to rescue some. I threw all the dirt out and started over. The students never realized what had happened. Cheryl Mikulasik 2016, retired teacher Highland Elementary In 1970, my first teaching job was at Highglen Elementary but the school wasn’t built yet so we were housed at Highland. Some of our classes were in the building and some, like mine, were in portable classrooms. The population of both schools was 690 students. Although sometimes crowded, both schools managed to share the facilities. In the spring of 1971, the Highglen students and teachers walked together over to our new school. Some years later, I returned to Highland and was fortunate to have many reliable, capable parent volunteers. Two such parents were Bev Peacock and Karen Cruikshank. Their children were in my class and they came to help out in the classroom every week. These two mothers gave me a wonderful gift that I will always remember. After the fire in June 1978, my classroom was mostly destroyed. I decided to leave everything and start over in the fall. In September, I received an amazing surprise! Bev and Karen had retrieved much of my smoke and water damaged teacher-made materials and had remade them over the summer. There were hundreds of items, many that I continued to use until I retired. Chris (Grieve) Morris 2016, retired teacher In 1980, I came to Highland Elementary School for Mrs. Morris’s grade 3 class. I was the first deaf person to do the integration program: moving from an all-deaf class to a hearing class. This was a major transition for me as I had to learn a new set of communication skills. Going from a sign-language environment to an oral language environment was challenging. In the early years, if you were born deaf, your options were limited. My mother campaigned for deaf children to be integrated into hearing classes. This was a huge opportunity for me to have a better future. Mrs. Morris wore an FM microphone and I wore an FM receiver so I could hear every word she said. It helped me a lot through my school years. I remember hearing Mrs. Morris talking when she was not in the classroom. Sometimes she would forget to turn the microphone off and I could hear her disciplining someone in the hallway. My classmates would gather around me to listen in my hearing aids. I remember my classmates Raquel and Brenda helping me to stay on track in class. They would tell me what page I should be on when we were reading a book. Being integrated into a hearing class changed my life. By doing this, I have become a much better and more well-rounded person today. I was able to immerse myself into the hearing society and let go of my reliance on using sign language for communicating. I’m grateful to Mrs. Morris for taking the chance and having confidence in accepting me into her classroom. Matt Duchscherer 2016, former student Highland Elementary A good time was had by all??? Well, it was an interesting experience with a very brave teacher and a class of 23 five-year-old kindergarten students having a sleepover in the school gym at the close of the school year. The children enjoyed a picnic supper and games and then it was time for bed. Beds were made up on the floor and the fun began as the teacher and volunteer mothers tried to settle the children down for the night. Good luck to us! Needless to say, that took a while as the children giggled and wiggled. One little boy covered a good part of the floor as he rolled around in his sleep. We’d put him back on his mat but it wasn’t long before he was off and on the go again. There was an upset tummy and a few tears but, all in all, it was a fun time and a night to remember. Bev Peacock 2016, parent volunteer There was a group of real keeners on staff…always there by 7:15 am to begin prep work (and play practical jokes on other staff members). One morning I heard shrill screams coming from a classroom down the hall. Fearing the worst, I dashed up the corridor to see a staff member staring into her desk drawer. It was a very dead mouse. I carefully disposed of the offending beast and, once again, there was a calm start to the day. Diane Taverner 2016, retired teacher The school’s outdoor courtyard had a sculpture of a thoughtful young fellow and it stood there for many years. As it was more or less life-size, it wasn’t uncommon to find it sporting a toque or a scarf on a winter’s day. Occasionally vandals would climb across the roof and get into the courtyard. The statue was damaged on a number of occasions and finally, when it was beyond repair, it was carted away. We really did have a marvelous stage at Highland and the evening Christmas concert was a highlight of the year for many parents. In the early days all the teachers worked with their students to learn a song, do a dance, or recite a poem. Before appearing on stage, the classes would be led on a winding route through the large spooky basement. Many of them were absolutely amazed, because they had no idea that area of the school even existed. The basement was immense and was full of unused, outdated relics from the past. Bob Armstrong was a master of practical jokes. One day he heard Cindy Swan and I were heading to the basement to look for the tug-of-war rope. Unbeknownst to us, he scooted through a different door and waited. It was dark and quiet. When we finally got our key in the lock and opened the door, there he was! We nearly had a heart attack. Our screaming brought him great satisfaction. Barb Ellison 2016, retired teacher Hutton Elementary 1919-1942 LOCATION The school was located 75 km east of Prince George. It was 10 km from Sinclair Mills, on the CN Railway, on the north side of the Fraser River. H u tt o n Mi l l s Sc h o o l 192 6 Courtesy of Bernard C. Gillie, teacher BC Historical News, Spring 1996 HISTORY Sir Alfred Smithers, chairman of the board of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway, named the community in 1914. The community and the school were originally named Hutton Mills but the name was changed to Hutton in October 1960. The school opened in 1919 with 31 students and Mr. S. Oswald Harries was the teacher. Most of the students were children of the United Grain Growers mill workers. Hut t on S chool 19 50’ s The school suffered from the quick turnover of teachers and The Exploration Place P990.4.11 the population fluctuated with the opening and closing of the mills. Fire destroyed the U.G.G. sawmill in 1926 and many families moved away. A planer mill continued to run and some families remained in the area to farm. The community has now become almost a ghost town but, at one time, there were over 800 people living in the area. The school building was sold by the Prince George School District in the 1950’s for $110 and was moved in sections to Sinclair Mills. Hutton Elementary S TA F F M r. S . O s w a l d H a r r i e s M i s s V. M . P r i c e Miss E.E. Lowerison R.R.J. Pollock D.J. Dewer B . O . Iv e r s o n M r. H a r o l d D . S t a ff o r d M r. E r i c A . S . Tr e d w e l l M r. B e r n a r d G i l l i e Mi s s E u n i c e M . L a w l e y M r. P. G . W i s h Denis C. Smith David A. Harper M i s s E . P. N . C a r t e r Miss M.B. Bartley Beg inner’ s C la ss 192 6 Courtesy of Bernard C. Gillie, teacher BC Historical News, Spring 1996 HUTTON NEWS The new schoolhouse here was opened by a lively hop on Saturday night. Part of the music, which was much appreciated, was contributed by the Misses Creighton and Bayes, of Giscome. ----Church service was held on Sunday evening in the new schoolhouse and was well-attended. February 26, 1919 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Hutton Elementary Memories So where was Hutton Mills and how could I get there? A little geographical research provided an answer to both questions. The Canadian National Railway office found it on their northern BC line from Jasper to Prince Rupert, about half way between Jasper and Prince George. To get there I should take the C.N. train from Vancouver to Red Pass junction in Jasper National Park, transfer there to the train from Edmonton to Prince Rupert. That way I could get off at Hutton Mills about 75 miles east of Prince George. There was a train once a day and I would have to wait at Red Pass for several hours for the Rupert train to pick me up. So far so good but what is there at Hutton Mills? About 900 people—a large lumber mill owned and operated by the United Grain Growers and six feet of snow in January. You’re wondering why the Grain Growers had a lumber mill about 1000 miles from the grain fields of the Prairies? Join the club! So did I; and even a year later I wasn’t at all sure. As a farm boy, even I knew that wheat didn’t need a sawmill to harvest it. Something to do with supplying the farmers of Saskatchewan with lumber to build elevators, sounded reasonable. Some young lads, about age 12 or so, came looking for me—they’d heard the new teacher had arrived—and offered to show me the school. Like everything else in Hutton Mills, it wasn’t far away. There it was—weather stained, no paint and door unlocked. In we went and, this time, I was sure I’d made a horrible mistake. The boys explained that the school was also the village hall—there had been a dance on Friday night and the janitor hadn’t got around to it yet. If you know what a dance was like in a sawmill town in the B.C. bush, I don’t need to explain it. Beg inner’ s C la ss 192 6 “We’ll help you clean up, Mr. Gillie,” they said; and with the Courtesy of Bernard C. Gillie, teacher BC Historical News, Spring 1996 courage of desperation we set to. About 30 hours later—3:00 o’clock on Labour Day to be exact—we turned the place into a classroom with desks, books, supplies and a heavy deposit of dust to make it look real. Without going into depressing details, somehow on Tuesday morning at 9:00 am, I rang the hand bell and 28 youngsters crowded through the doors and I was able to start my first school. Bernard C. Gillie 1996, retired teacher. BC Historical News. Spring 1996. Hutton Elementary HUTTON MILLS IS A THRIVING COMMUNITY The town of Hutton Mills is a pros- perous community of about 400 population, which is constantly increasing, according to the statement of the Deputy Inspector Parsons, of the provincial police who has just returned from an official visit to the various lumber camps along the G.T.P., east of here. At Hutton Mills over 300 men are employed in the big sawmill and in the various camps of the Grain Growers’ company. Quite a number of families are settled in comfortable homes and a public school, a hospital and a large general store are some of the late additions to the town. January 24, 1919 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Hu tt o n S aw m i l l 1 910’ s The Exploration Place P986.5.144 Island Cache Elementary 1955-1972 LOCATION The school was built between the CN Railway and the Nechako River on what is now River Road and Foley Crescent. Today the school and surrounding residential area is only a memory as all that remains is an industrial park. The old school building is being used for storage by one of the sawmills on River Road. Is la nd C ac he Sc hool 196 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection EARLY HISTORY In 1913, the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway made headquarters in the Cottonwood Island area. The town that grew up around the docks and warehouses was known as Foley’s “Cache” and was later known as “the Cache” and then “Island Cache”. In the early years, children had to cross the railway tracks to attend school at Connaught and King George V. This was very dangerous as they had to climb over or under railway cars. One girl lost a foot when a train moved. A community petition was circulated advocating a school be built in the Cache so that children could be safe. . . . c h il d r e n h a d t o c r os s t h e r a i l wa y t ra cks t o a tt end scho ol... The two-room Island Cache School was built and opened in 1955 at a cost of $24,500. It was considered a rural school by the School District until the area became part of the city of Prince George in 1970. Island Cache Elementary From the school’s opening to 1961, Grades 1-6 were enrolled and so it was designated an elementary school. It became a primary school from 1962 until its closure. E N R O L LMENT Gr. 1 & 2 C la ss of 1 955- 56 I s la nd C ac he El em entar y Mrs. Helen Wiley , firs t teac her SD 57 Education Heritage Collection YEAR 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 GRADES # 1-6 63 1-5 78 1-3 50 1-6 89 1-6 73 1-6 65 1-5 54 1-3 57 1-3 70 1-3 104 1-3 71 1-3 74 1-3 79 1-3 70 1-3 60 Gr.1 28 K-1 31 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) G r . 3 & 4 Cl as s o f 195 5-56 Is l and Ca che E lem ent ar y M rs . D. Ev ans , fir st t ea cher The Exploration Place 2004.2.647 There were many people living in the Cache that could not get power or water as there was yearly flooding. Some years the flooding was worse than others and eventually this led to the closure of the school in 1972 and later the demolition of the entire residential area. Island Cache Elementary SCHOOL AC T I VI T Y H I G H L I G H T S The school was the centre of the community. An active PTA was organized and sponsored many school and community activities. Weekly whist drives were held to raise money. The teachers and students provided some of the prizes. The PTA entered a float in the Prince George Exhibition Parade on August 22, 1958. Sports like volleyball were played in the schoolyard on weekends and holidays. Health clinics were held at the school by the Cariboo Health Unit. Vo ll ey ba ll Is la nd C ac he Sc hool 197 0 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen P R I N C I PAL S P TA Fl oat 19 58 The Exploration Place P993.11.1.3242.5 Alice Box John Turner Isle Pierre Elementary 1929-1965 LOCATION Isle Pierre School was located on Isle Pierre Road north of Highway 16, 35 kilometres west of Prince George. The school was close to the CNR station and the Nechako River. It was also accessible by Highway 97A, Chief Lake Road, via Reid Lake and the Isle Pierre ferry across the Nechako River. Is le Pi e r re Sch ool 1 930’ s Courtesy of Roy & Doris Jarvis SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY The school was opened on November 18, 1929 to serve the Isle Pierre townsite and surrounding area. At the time, Isle Pierre was a flourishing mill town with several stores, including A. M. Dore’s General Store, a CNR station and a ferry across the Nechako River. Frances Kirkham was the first teacher. In 1954, a new one-room school was built. Road improvements to Highway 16 West and the Isle Pierre Road led to a population decline as many mill workers drove to or were bussed to the Isle Pierre mill and their children enrolled in schools in Prince George. During the time the school was open, the enrollment ranged from 8 students to 17 students in grades 1-9. Following the closure of the school in 1965, students were bussed to Beaverly Elementary School. The property was sold and the schoolhouse moved to Vanway. Isle Pierre Elementary ENROLLME N T YEAR 1946 1948 1950 1952 1954 1956 1958 1960 1962 1964 GRADE # 1-8 14 1-8 17 1-9 16 1-8 9 1-7 15 1-8 11 1-6 11 1-8 13 1-8 13 1-8 15 E A R LY S TA F F Mrs. Ruth W. Heavener Mrs. Bessie T. Harcus William K. Durrell Miss Sheila K. Simmons L.E. Stanley Miss Albina Sivecki Mrs. A. Somers Eldon Corson Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) ISLE PIERRE The Isle Pierre School held a very enjoyable and successful bazaar Saturday. The bazaar was an attempt to raise funds for the European starving children and as a result $45.00 was brought in….Due to the poor condition of the ferry, the turnout was not as large as it was hoped to be, but with the cooperation of those in the community, engineers surveying the land here, and some transients, the results were satisfactory. There were two “fish ponds” which were enjoyed by all. The parents donated homemade candy and lunch; lemonade and coffee were served as well. The students acted as clerks and aides to make those who did attend feel they were patronizing their bazaar for a good benefit. The teacher and children wish to take this opportunity to thank the parents and patronizers for being so cooperative. June 10, 1948 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Fr anc es K ir kham Firs t Tea che r SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Isle Pierre Elementary LOCAL HAPPENINGS The Trustees of the Isle Pierre public school have arranged to hold a basket social in the school house on the evening of Saturday, November 15th. The proceeds will be applied to the Christmas tree and library funds of the school. October 30, 1930 Courtesy of Is le Pi e r re Fe rry on Ne c h ako 195 0 The Prince George Citizen BC Archives Collection A-04554 Did You Know? I I N THE 1930’S TO 1950’S, THERE WERE THREE RURAL SCHOOL DISTRICTS WITHIN A SEVEN MILE TRIANGLE: ISLE PIERRE, REID LAKE AND SYLVAN GLADE. N THE LATE 1930’S, REV. S. POLLINGER FROM PRINCE GEORGE, HELD ANGLICAN CHURCH DIVINE SERVICES IN THE ISLE PIERRE SCHOOL AND THE MUD RIVER SCHOOL ON SUNDAY AFTERNOONS. I T N SEPTEMBER OF 1960, THE SITE OF THE ORIGINAL ISLE PIERRE SCHOOL BUILDING WAS TENDERED. THE HIGHEST BID WENT TO MRS. E. L. MARX OF PRINCE GEORGE FOR $250. HE FERRY WAS THE LIFEBLOOD OF ISLE PIERRE. IT WAS A “FLOW OF RIVER” FERRY THAT OPERATED SEASONALLY ON THE NECHAKO RIVER JOINING REID LAKE ROAD TO ISLE PIERRE. THE RIVER CURRENT AND A SERIES OF SMALL RAPIDS POWERED THE FERRY. INTENSE RAINS IN THE FALL OF 1964 WASHED OUT THE ACCESS ROAD TO THE FERRY ON THE REID LAKE SIDE. Isle Pierre Elementary ISLE PIERRE SCHOOL BOARD CASH BOOK 1929-1938 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection John McInnis Jr. Secondary 3400 Westwood Drive, Prince George 1972-2010 MISSION STATEMENT Students at John McInnis will grow toward becoming productive, respectful, self-motivated individuals in an environment of academic excellence and opportunity. HISTORY John McInnis School was built to fill the need for secondary instruction in the western part of the city that consisted of the Pinewood, Westwood, Van Bien, Peden Hill, Beaverly, and Vanway areas. In 1972, the staff was hired and students were enrolled at Lakewood Junior Secondary School as John McInnis School was still under construction. J ohn M cI nnis S chool 19 80’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection “The Gr eat Tr ek” fr om Lak ewood Junior to t h e i r n e w bu i ld in g o n W e st w o o d D r i v e . Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen April 2, 1973 The school was named after pioneer John McInnis, who settled in Fort George in 1910 and through the years became a well-known civic leader, operated a construction company and served as the CCF MLA for the riding. He died at the age of ninety, the same year as school construction began. Joh n Mc I n n i s 19 00’ s Courtesy of Dr. John McInnis 1973 John McInnis Jr. Secondary Courtesy of Ray “Blue” Masson, teacher 1977 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection In the initial plans, the architect, Desmond Parker, designed John McInnis for grades 8 to 12, but concurrently a new sector of the city, College Heights, was being developed. It became apparent that a new school would be needed there. ENROLLME N T YEAR 1972 1976 1982 1986 1992 1996 2002 2006 2009 GRADE # 8-10 599 8-10 742 8-10 513 8-10 421 8-10 593 8-10 479 8-10 427 8-10 449 8-10 359 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) After having been on shift at Lakewood Junior, the JMC students and staff would then go on shift once more to accommodate the College Heights Secondary students until their school was completed. A fire in January 1978, which destroyed Connaught Junior Secondary, resulted in a shift situation for a third time at JMC! Tripl e “A ” Log o 1 980 ’s Courtesy of Ray Masson & Tiiu Noukas, teachers After that the school continued, without interruption, with students from grades 8 to 10 benefiting from senior facilities in the shops, library, home economics and science labs and succeeding in its Triple “A” focus: Academics, Athletics and Activities. John McInnis Jr. Secondary F I R S T S TA F F 1 9 72-1973 Jim Barton, George Brookes, Lorna Brown, Shirley Cunningham, Wayne Desharnais, Moira Doig, Lorraine Fischer, Yvonne (Fournier) Nelson, Graham Hope, Bruce Irving, Len Kachuk, Don Lawrence, Anne Levay, Bob Peard, Dave Richards, Ken Rogers, Jim Rose, Terry Ryan, Steve Schellenberg, Bert Schulz, Bet Siddall, Wayne and Mrs. Stedingh, Principal: Dave Vawter, Bob Viergever, Rosemary (Watson) Allen, Dave Wright, Greg Zoerb J ohn M cI nnis St aff 1 990- 199 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection P R I N C I PA L S D a v i d Va w t er D e n n i s S e m e n i uk D o n C h a m b e r l a in B o b L i n d s ay We n d y H e r b e rt B o b A t t oe R o b i n Te m o in B o n n i e C h a p p ell R o b L i t t le S t e p h e n M a c R ae R e n e S c h w e i z er G a r r y Wa d s on V I C E P R I N C I PA L S Wayne Desharnais George Harris Bert Schulz Richard Szanik Wendy Herbert Robin Temoin Bill Bateman Ted Renquist Rob Little Kirk Czechmeister Sid Jawanda Garry Wadson Lisa Carson John McInnis Jr. Secondary Connecting In the late 1980’s, there seemed to be an exodus of teachers from Prince George. In order to stem this flow, the John McInnis staff decided to familiarize themselves with Prince George and locate their ProD sessions in various settings. Sites visited include the historic downtown, Ferguson Lake, Forests So nny Zi mm erm a n Lect ur e “A ct i ve Li st eni ng ” For the World, Eskers Provincial Park, C am p Hu ghes 198 1 Courtesy of Colin Love, teacher Cottonwood Island Park and fish hatchery, the Huble Farm, L.C. Gunn Park, Studio 2880, Fort George Canyon, Baldy Hughes, the Native Friendship Centre, and the Beaverly/Mud River catchment areas. Consequently, few John McInnis staff members left our city—even when retired! P ar e n t s P l u gg i n g In to St af f c i rc a 1 980 Courtesy of Ray Masson, teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Did You Know? W ENDY HERBERT WAS THE FIRST FEMALE PRINCIPAL OF A SECOND- ARY SCHOOL IN MODERN DAY SD 57. N EW AND EXISTING STUDENTS AND PARENTS WERE INVITED TO SCHOOL IN SEPTEMBER FOR A DINNER OF BURGERS. THE “BURGER BASH” WAS GOING STRONG FROM 1985 TO THE SCHOOL’S CLOSURE IN 2010. Burg er Bas h 199 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection ACADEMICS John McInnis Jr. Secondary Timetables In John McInnis’s early days, the innovative Quarter System established over 200 course offerings, each lasting ten weeks. Full year programming existed from 1978– 1993, followed by a semestered system common with other secondary schools. Sustained Silent Reading For decades, an important component of JMC’s academics had been a school-wide reading time for students and staff. This twenty-minute session occurred daily on the full year system but changed to alternate months when the school became semestered. The school library was integral to its success. Accelerated Academic Program In 1999, JMC began an accelerated program in which selected students could complete grade 9 and 10 coursework in their grade 9 year and go on to grade 11 studies in their grade 10 year. This enabled them to apply for IB and AP programs at Prince George Secondary. Honour Roll Appreciation Lunch Pat Hearn, school secretary, initiated a June luncheon in the library for diligent students who had consistently achieved Honour Roll status. All teaching and nonteaching staff provided either food or a donation. Zoology B ob Attoe Pres ents P r incipa l’s C up Awa rd 199 8 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The school’s resident iguana, Rexie, lived in one of the science rooms. Mrs. Sims and her Zoology club looked after Rexie along with a menagerie of guinea pigs, mice, rats, turtles, fish, hamsters, a rabbit and two smaller iguanas. Rexie, at 1.5 metres, was said to be the largest iguana north of Hope. R e xi e th e Ig u an a Courtesy of Michelle Sims, retired teacher John McInnis Jr. Secondary Home Economics & Industrial Education John McInnis was the only school in the district to require all grade 8 students, regardless of gender, to take four practical courses that consisted of Sewing, Foods & Nutrition, Woodwork, and Metalwork. Gra de 8 Wood work ing 1 980 Memories SD 57 Education Heritage Collection During one sewing class in 1978, a grade 8 boy decided to pry out the plug of the sewing machine with a pair of scissors. The electricity went off not only in the school, but the entire neighbourhood. Miraculously the boy was unhurt. Rose Pallo 2011, retired teacher Well, I got the idea for Valentine’s Day in 1981 that the classes could make Fortune Cookies and write little Valentines on slips of paper to be passed on to the next block. It really didn’t occur to me being a first year teacher that anyone would send a “slightly” rude message. Considering how open it was, only a couple of messages were not appropriate. Jan Gak 2011, retired teacher BC Hydro’s High School Science Contest John McInnis entered three group presentations into the 1990 BC Scientists In Schools competition and won second and third prizes: $1,200 and $600, respectively. J eopar dy G am e in BC Hy dro Scienc e C ont est Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen April 23, 1990 ATHLETICS John McInnis Jr. Secondary “John McInnis, Home of the Royals” The school earned a great reputation for its athletic teams: basketball, volleyball, track, rugby and golf. The students, with the assistance of dedicated coaches, entered many tournaments and the school generously hosted numerous others. Pumpkin Pound Around This annual grade 10 volleyball tournament, designed and hosted by John McInnis, commenced in the fall of 1981. In 1994, this tournament was the first school event to be held at the new Civic Centre. With twenty teams competing (ten boys’ teams, ten girls’ teams), it was the first time a JMC team won its own cup. The Royals boys defeated the Duchess Park Condors. Volleyball The JMC Junior Girls Volleyball team won the silver medal at the BC Provincial Championships in 2005. The JMC Junior A Girls Volleyball team won the gold medal at the BC Provincial Championships in 2009. 20 09 P r ovinc ial Team E d Ja n g & Ra y M ass o n , co a c he s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection John McInnis Jr. Secondary In 2003, Ray Masson was commissioned to paint two large stylized lions on the main gym wall. Ske tc h f o r M u ra l i n G y m b y R a y Ma ss o n SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Basketball The Royals Junior Boys Basketball team won the North Central Zone title in February 2006. La SD y u 57 E p S h o duc atio t 1 9 9 nH erita 8 ge C olle ctio n Memories The years when I volunteered as staff sponsor of the Boys’ volleyball and basketball teams at John McInnis, especially one time when I accompanied them to a tournament in Vancouver, I heard “99 Bottles of Beer On The Wall” sung from start to finish!! Rosemary Allen 2011, retired teacher John McInnis Jr. Secondary ACTIVITIES Pancake Breakfasts Student pancake breakfasts were popular throughout the years at John McInnis. Lockers Get Moved Vinc e P etho & Wend y H erb ert c ook a pa nca ke b r eakf ast t o c om pl ement a P E unit on squa re d anc ing 1 983 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Performing Art Productions ctio n The Rampant Mime Theatre group put on many performances in the early years. Later, art, drama and band teachers held public performances of concerts, skits, arts nights and plays. SD 57 P in Edu occ cati on hio Her 20 itag 04 eC olle Ten years after the school opened, the principal, Don Chamberlain, decided to convert the foyer into a gathering place and so its rows of lockers were moved to line the main hallways. Thus the school acquired a lunchroom, a site for school productions, contests, award presentations and extra teaching space. C e l e br i ty Da y P ar ti c i p an t s 1 999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Grad e 8 Orientation 2002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection John McInnis Jr. Secondary Mud Bowl In the early 80’s, the grounds behind the library were flooded as students and staff participated in a mud bowl. It was fun for all, but probably would not be allowed today. Mud Bowl 198 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Farewell Banquet & Junior Prom J un i or Pr om 200 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Block X Through the years, eager grade 10’s formally said their good-byes to junior high by organizing a variety of events. JMC had candlelit catered dinners in the foyer (when candles were allowed!), dinners at public facilities such as Esther’s Inn, and proms with appetizers and cake in an extravagantly decorated school foyer and gym. When John McInnis was on the full year system, it had an extra block. Sometimes it would be used for activities, in the school and beyond, to help forge new relationships with students of other grades, with support staff, and with teachers. Sample activities were badminton, chess, remote control flying, gift wrapping, Bubba Balloos, etiquette, squash, and piñata making. Activity Afternoons Once in the winter and once in late spring, the school would organize an afternoon of fun (similar to, but longer than, Block X). These activities included swimming, ballet, roller skating, bowling, curling, wall climbing, archery, hockey, Chinese cookery, ice fishing and more. Student C url ing 199 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection John McInnis Jr. Secondary Mount Robson Field Trips From the mid 70’s, there were annual excursions organized by teachers to Mount Robson Provincial Park. A plaque on a Mount Robson shelter states that John McInnis donated funds for it. Some excursion variations over the years were a Mount Robson to Jasper cycling trip; a Jasper to Lake Louise cycling trip; and a Mount Assiniboine hike. Students, along with their sponsor teachers, worked hard to get physically fit for these ventures. 1 978 Mt . R ob son T ri p wi t h D on Wil kins, teac her, SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Sailing & Science Trips Mrs. Sims began organizing sailing trips in the Victoria area in the 1990’s. Later, when teaching Biology 11, sailing and diving trips became part of that curriculum. In the last four years of the school’s existence, science trips were arranged to the Lower Mainland. Sa iling T r ip 200 4 Courtesy of Michelle Sims, retired teacher Travel S tu d e n t s I n V i c t o ri a 199 9 Courtesy of Tiiu Noukas, retired teacher Numerous trips outside of the province included journeys to Europe and Quebec; exchanges with Dartmouth NS, Sept Îles PQ, Baie Comeau PQ; and sending representatives to Ottawa for Encounters With Canada. In BC, students enjoyed travel to communities such as Prince Rupert, Victoria, Long Beach, and two trips to Vancouver in 1991 and 1994 to see The Phantom of the Opera. Did You Know? J OHN MCINNIS HAD A COMPUTER CLUB IN 1981. John McInnis Jr. Secondary WHO WE ARE Student Survey 1990 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection John McInnis Jr. Secondary Heritage John McInnis had a large number of students who were Indo-Canadian and it also had many aboriginal students. Aboriginal students had a dedicated counsellor, a club, and opportunities to bring elders to school. Peter George, an artistic partner for many years, was a big asset to the school. Time Capsule P et er G eor ge, A bo r i g in al Ar ti s t 2 0 0 5 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection In 1993, on the twentieth birthday of the school, a time capsule containing all sorts of memorabilia of the school was stored away under the science wing. In 2003, the thirtieth birthday of the school, other artifacts were added. Teachers Gerry Van Caeseele and John Thomson emptied out the capsule in front of many alumni in June 2010. What they found: aged wine, report cards, hockey cards, a newsletter, a telephone, cans of pop, photos…but no tarantula which reportedly had escaped many years previously. Opening Tim e Ca psul e 20 10 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Memories In the early 2000’s, the school principal formed a School Beautification Committee comprised of a few staff and many students. The thought was that an attractive school would foster school pride and thwart vandalism. My school leadership students took on the washrooms as a beautification project. During school time, after hours and weekends, students stenciled the boys’ washroom in a racing stripe theme complete with chequered flags. The girls’ washroom was painted with multicoloured and varied large butterflies. After considerable time and effort, our projects were concluded. To my dismay, a visiting girls’ team informed our host team that butterflies were symbolic of lesbians. After great consternation, our girls dismissed this and proceeded to again be proud of their vibrant washroom. Tiiu Noukas 2011, retired teacher John McInnis Jr. Secondary LAST STAF F 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 1 0 Teachers: Bruce Blashill, Doug Borden, Lisa Carson (Vice-principal), Catherine Erricson, Alison Findlay, Corinna Gilbert, Judy Glass, Breane Hyland, Doug Knox, Mark LaFleur, Corine Masich, Dana Norbeck, Phil Rice, Shannon Schinkel, Suzanne Sharp, Michelle Sims, Sue Steel, John Thomson, Margaret Truant, Gerry Van Caeseele, Garry Wadson (Principal), Doug Waller, Nigel Wey Support Staff: Suzanne Aubichon, Trudy Belyea, Leslie Dagg, Pat Hearn, Brenda Hodgkinson, Pat Korum, Tammy Leduke, Mary McGinley, Wendy Stevenson, Christine Sullivan (Business Manager), Matt Teichman, Barb Wiebe Jo h n Mc I n n i s St a f f 201 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The Centre for Learning Alternatives (Continuing Education, Distance Education and Community Alternate Programs), Area Support Teams, District Itinerant Staff and the District Resource Centre are now tenants of the “John McInnis Centre”. Kelly Road Elementary/Junior 1957-1967 Location The school was located 11 km north of Prince George on Kelly Road. Kelly Road Elementary school and teacherage 1960 BC Archives Collection I-23835 History A former sawmill site, the road and school was named for John Kelly, who was a surveyor and later a jeweler. Kelly Road Elementary, a two-room school, opened in September 1957 on the northeast portion of the school district property on Kelly Road near the Hart Highway. This school was expanded by a two-room addition making it a four room school. Also, school district personnel brought in a teacherage to be added to the complex. In August 1960, a portable from Peden Hill Elementary, fitted with old double desks attached to the floor that had pull-down seats, was moved alongside the school, now named Kelly Road Elementary Junior High School. That September, 120 students had to be bussed to Duchess Park as the new “junior” building, with 8 new classrooms and offices, wouldn’t be completed until the spring of 1961. This was being constructed southwest of the original school diagonally across the field. Because they had been separated earlier, the primary teachers and the intermediate/ junior staff remained separate entities in different premises and did not interact that much. The school name changed in 1962 to become Kelly Road Elementary Junior Secondary School. This change of designation (from High school to Secondary school) was province-wide. In September 1963, a new addition to the original building was not ready. A number of students were sent to Hart Highway Elementary until the four classrooms and activity room were completed. The next year, bids and construction were slow for the 1964 expansion so two portables were brought in. By September 1965, overcrowding resulted in the grade 5, 6 and 7 classes being on shift on site. June 1967 signalled the close for the elementary school, as students would be attending the new Austin Road School. But September 1967 saw these elementary students still going to Kelly Road, many in makeshift classrooms, at least until the official moving date of November 15th. Other classes followed later as the construction progressed. The original building became known as the Annex and would house the overflow from the growing area. By 1972 another school was needed and so this annex accommodated Glenview Elementary students until their school was ready in the spring of 1973. A suspicious fire destroyed part of the Annex in April 1979. It had been empty and slated for demolition. The site of the original school from 60 years ago was paved over for parking and an outdoor sports court. Kelly Road Elementary/Junior School in the Wilderness: New Kelly Road School Miss Griffiths’ grade 2 class 1959 The Exploration Place 2004.2.767 ...Right now, Mr. Wiens (principal) said, the school staff is increasing the school’s library. “It takes several years for a new school to build up an adequate library,” he said. “We won’t be any exception.” Kelly Road pupils attended library classes at the North-Central District Library in Prince George and received instruction in how to use a library. The library also lent the school between 300 and 400 books until the end of the school term. “This has certainly helped us,” Mr. Wiens said, “It was something they didn’t have to do.” April 27, 1961 Kelly Road Elementary Junior High 1961 The Exploration Place 993.11.13963.1 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Kelly Road Elementary/Junior EARLY STAFF ENROLLMENT YEAR 1957 1960 1963 1966 1966 GRADE 1-5 1-8 1-9 1-3 4-10 # 70 267 449 240 622 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) n.b. 1966 Kelly Road Primary School was a separate listing Nix, doll... The school said no, but the girls said yes. The issue? Can the young ladies wear slacks in school? The result? Six students were sent home from Kelly Road School Wednesday morning. The girls call the slacks a necessity. The school calls their action “almost a teenage rebellion”. November 18, 1965 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Mr. and Mrs. Jenkins Miss Willms Miss Griffiths Mrs. Williams Mrs. J.M. Mulder Miss M. Bower Miss Barbara Blakey Miss Barbara Epton Miss Mary Rose Symington Mr. Sohan Singh Miss M. E. Hawley Carol (Giles) Zogas Mr. Mark Porter Mrs. Irene Smith Eleanor Kallweit Mrs. Dawn Jamieson Nan (Carter) Bergstrom Ann (Dahl) Miller Mrs. Doreen Gray Mr. Gordon Armes Miss Theresa Poje Pamela (Fisher) Barmettler Madge (White) Craig Mr. Terry Craig Mr. Jake Wiens Mr. Victor Ewert Mrs. D. Lucy Grant Mrs. J. Field Miss Sue Edge Miss L. Clarke Miss P. Chiulli Mrs. Spearman Mrs. H. King Kelly Road Elementary/Junior Teaching staff 1961 Courtesy of Ann (Dahl) Miller PRINCIPALS Frank Privat John Wiens Don Gough Ian Mackenzie Dave Eldred Frank Hamilton VICE PRINCIPALS Peter Lowe Mark Porter Ted Lea Art Erasmus Mr. Rowett’s grade 7 science class studying how to learn the age of trees without cutting them down to count the rings May 25, 1965 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Kelly Road Elementary/Junior Did You Know? M r. Privat, former principal, raised money for a school scholarship through raffling perfume brought in from France where he had done a teaching exchange. After his untimely death in 1963, the scholarship was named after him. Dances, bazaars, the Kelly Road Chaos (fun night), and bake sales organized by parents helped sustain the Privat scholarship for many years. It evolved into the Kelly Road Community Club Scholarship. T he young students during Mr. B. F. Privat’s time privately called him “Bull Frog Privat”. In reality his name was Benjamin Franklin Privat. (Stella Denis Schreiner 2016, former student). A fter Blackburn Road Elementary School burned in January 1964, students were sent to other schools for the remainder of the year. Mr. E. Wilson’s Grade 5/6 class and Mr. Duff’s 6/7 class boarded a bus to Kelly Road extending their already long journey. I n September 1964, Hans Hartnagel was new to teaching as were the other two grade 7 teachers who were all located in an outbuilding. His class roster initially had 52 students. Hans thought it was a great class of really good kids and he enjoyed working with them. The principal, Dave Eldred, told Hans he had the largest Grade 7 class in the province. D T ave Rowett, a well-loved teacher, died in a hunting accident in October 1968. he Board of School trustees wanted to build the new replacement elementary school on a plot close to the junior secondary. At that time there were a number of homes in proximity to the school. However, the Board’s attempted land appropriation was unsuccessful so the replacement elementary was built on the school district’s newly acquired land on Austin Road in 1967. Best Choral Speech in B.C. Offered by Kelly Road Group “I haven’t heard better choral Art Reed on supervision of ice rink made and maintained by teachers 1967 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection speaking anywhere this spring in all my adjudications of B.C. festivals.” This was Mrs. Eileen Parker’s comment as she awarded Kelly Road Elementary Junior High School a shield donated by the Hudson’s Bay Company at the conclusion of the drama and speech arts festival Saturday… April 17, 1964 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Kelly Road Elementary/Junior Christmas at Kelly Road One of the big tasks in Kelly Road School classrooms is decorating the walls in preparation for the Christmas season. Students had to climb a step-ladder to reach the higher parts of walls in their classroom. Streamers and crepe “poofs” all added to the spectacular array of yuletide splendor. Most of the work was done during art classes the pupils have each week. December 22, 1961 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen ACTIVITIES The Kelly Road Community Association has been a staunch supporter of the school. The Citizen newspaper featured a “Kelly Road News” column and it often announced school activities. With expansion, more and more groups (e.g. Guides) used the school for meetings. Once the school had an activity room, and later a gym, there was fun to be had. The school record player was put to good use for sock hops, dances and even the grade 10 Prom (which was a farewell for the grade 10’s before they attended PGSS for their grade 11 and 12 years). SPORTS From its earliest days, Kelly Road had a school baseball team. The school participated in the school district’s Rural Track Meet of 1959 and successive track meets as well. When Gordon Armes joined the staff in 1962, he advocated for a track and this precipitated a track and field program at the school. Physical Education was often taught outside, even when snowy. Students would wear gloves to play outdoor volleyball. Before the activity room was built, in the winter of 196364, students would push the furniture to the side of the classroom to do activities, in gym strip, often on a gritty floor. There wasn’t much equipment but a sample activity was that students were instructed to master an obstacle course created from garbage cans and other furnishings. (Elaine Giese Dupont and Donna Frey Scofield 2016, former students) After the activity room was completed, things began to improve. The upper grades were divided into “houses” and would don coloured pinnies to play team games. By the mid1960’s a gym had been approved and built and Kelly Road was able to offer a program of P. E. and athletics. Kelly Road Elementary/Junior Kelly Road News The Kelly Road Sports Day and Community Supper was held June 5 . th Assisting the school principal, Mr. F. Privat, in managing the sports events was Mr. W. Millar. Winners of the cups, donated by the Hart-way Store and Service and the B. A. Woodland Service, were Amelia Holt and Richard Stalknecht. Stella Denis was chosen to be a princess to the Queen of the Evergreens. A number of ladies took turns in helping in the booth and in serving the bountiful supper. July 11, 1959 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Memories The custom was that after school was dismissed on Fridays, teachers would go for a beer. I wasn’t a drinker; however, I went with my ride to The Simon Fraser beer parlour (Ladies and Escorts side, of course). As I was not riding home with her I took my school books in with me. A female patron spied them and sputtered in indignation that teachers had no business in a pub! …And then there were the fun dances upstairs at the Firehall at 7th and Dominion… Pamela (Fisher) Barmettler 2016, retired teacher I was hired to teach at the “new” Kelly Road Junior High during the summer of 1960. When I arrived prior to school opening in September, I drove out to Kelly Road to look at my new workplace. I found the Kelly Road Elementary building and a small structure called Kelly Road Teacherage, but no sign of the Jr. High! I drove back to P.G. and contacted the Secretary-Treasurer (Bob Gracey) at his residence. He happened to be re-shingling his roof and I recall shouting out, “Where is this Kelly Road High School?” His reply, “It’s not built yet. But you’ll be working at the Duchess Park Junior Annex (9th Avenue). The students will be bussed in.” So from September 1960 to spring 1961, we were working in town. Our principal, John Wiens, would hold staff meetings with us in town and then go out to the elementary staff to deal with their matters. When the “new” school was ready, a bus took students and teachers out. I recall the bus got stuck in the driveway from Kelly Road to the school. A logging truck pulled us out of the mud. We had a married couple (elderly) as custodian-janitors. They kept that school cleaned and polished despite the muddy schoolyard. Ann (Dahl) Miller 2016, retired teacher Kelly Road Elementary/Junior I remember that the new junior high had a problem with heating in the winter. We often wore coats in the classrooms. One lunchtime I took my sandwiches out of the lunch cupboard and they were frozen. Carol (Giles) Zogas 2016, retired teacher I remember quite clearly starting school. Just steps away from the primary school was our family-owned Lucky Three Café and Store. From the front counter I obtained a carton which held rolls of Lifesaver candies. It was dark blue and on the sides were pictures of individual candies. Being long and narrow, it was just the right size to hold the rolls of Lifesavers cross-wise and it was also just the right size to hold my new pencils, eraser and other implements. I carefully carried it to my first day in Grade 1. Royce Norum 2016, former student I was principal Frank Hamilton’s relief teacher in 1966-67 and we were on shift while building a case for a new school (Austin Road)) which was to be built the following year. Bev Christensen was our school secretary and part of her job was to drive me to Hart Highway Elementary where I was the relief teacher for that principal and his grade 7 class. In September, we were still housed in the Kelly Road annex and the gym, which had been divided up into several classrooms while awaiting completion of the school. The school library was in the girls’ changeroom off the gym. So much to talk about!! Luci Denis Redmond 2004, retired teacher The Kelly Road gymnasium divided into classroom spaces September 7, 1967 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Kerry Lake - Mile 4 Elementary 1951-1965 Kerry Lake Elementary LOCATION 1 9 551 - 1 9 6 5 The school was located north of Bear Lake and south of McLeod Lake, 72 km north of Prince George on the Hart Highway. It was situated on Kerry Lake, in the Crooked River area, at the La Pas Lumber Sawmill. Ker ry Lak e/M il e 4 Sc hool 19 63 HISTORY Courtesy of Jack Schoneville, retired teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection This school was a typical one-room wooden structure with a metal roof. The building could be put on skids and moved to a new location with ease. Outdoor toilets, water pumped from a well, and power from the mill site were usually supplied by the lumber company. The buildings, including the school, were heated by oil space heaters. The school closed in June 1965 and the children were bussed to Bear Lake Elementary. Mile 4 Elementary 1951-1955 K err y Lak e/M ile 4 T eac hera g e 196 3 Mile 4 school was located at the Stevens and Rahn sawmill, a few kilometres from Summit Lake. It operated for four years until the mill site shut down and the Stevens and Rahn camp moved to Kerry Lake. The school and the teacherage were moved to the new site. The mill later became a part of La Pas Lumber. Courtesy of Jack Schoneville, retired teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Kerry Lake - Mile 4 Elementary ENROLLM E N T Mile 4 YEAR 1951 1952 1953 1954 GRADE # 1-4 12 1-6 17 1-7 17 2-8 15 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) ENROLLMENT Kerry Lake YEAR 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 GRADE # 1-7 24 1-8 22 1-7 14 1-8 18 1-8 15 1-8 14 1-7 12 1-8 13 1-8 14 1-7 18 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) SUMMIT LAKE Mile 4 school, under the direction of Mrs. B. Harcus, received the Women of Moose posture award this year. They are very proud to have been chosen in this competition between all the rural schools in the district. June 27, 1955 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen K er ry Lak e Students 196 3 Courtesy of Jack Schoneville, retired teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Kerry Lake - Mile 4 Elementary KERRY LAKE PUPILS AGAIN WIN SPORTS MEET AT SUMMIT LAKE Memories of Kerry Lake For music, we listened to the National Music Radio Program and for PE we went outside. Lunch was easy to determine. When the lights went out briefly, it meant that the powerhouse changed generators. There was only occasional radio reception and TV was not available. SUMMIT LAKE – Kerry Lake (formerly Mile 4) school won the Buchanan Trophy for the third consecutive year when the inter-school sports meet was held Friday in spite of rain and a muddy field. The winning school earned 2840 points, followed by Hart Lake with 1969 and Summit Lake, 1456 points. Another small shield inscribed with the date and the name of the winning school will be added to the championship trophy. Outstanding athletes for the winners were Sharon Lee and Jack Isadore… June 28, 1956 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Cumulative snowfall measured fifty feet: the path to the outhouse from the teacherage was so high that no one could see us coming or going. The roof of the school was metal, resulting in the snow sliding down. By January, the snow on the roof met the snow on the ground and the windows of the school were completely covered. Wildlife was always around. Brown and grizzly bears were seen many times by the loggers and fallers. Wolves were often heard and our German Shepherd didn’t bark very much, but he learned how to howl. The moose could be a problem. Often the people from camp, after having gone shopping in Prince George, would have to follow a moose till it decided to get off the road. Passing it was not a viable option as it would just as soon turn around and charge the car. Jack Schoneville 2010, retired teacher Kerry Lake - Mile 4 Elementary Teacherage & School Ae ri al P hot o of La P as Saw mi l l Ca mp 1 963 Courtesy of Jack Schoneville, retired teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection There were 16 or 17 bunkhouses along the clearing, off the logging road, with the school and teacherage at one end. The 1 x 4 mill and the bee hive burner were close to the lake where logs were kept in booms. Many of the workers were seasonal and sometimes fought forest fires in the summer and went logging for timber in the winter. This scene is representative of the many Prince George one-room rural schools located at lumber camps throughout the interior. Kidd Elementary 1927-1934 Location Kidd was 84 km northwest of McBride and 119 km east of Prince George, southwest of the Fraser River. It is 5 km from Dome Creek; north of the current Highway 16. History Kidd was an original Grand Trunk Pacific station, basically a tent town for the railway workers. One of the most difficult stretches of tracklaying preceded it. Continuing west of Urling Station, the contractors decided to avoid unstable clay slopes and build a tunnel but this was a futile endeavour. Subsequently the tracks were routed above ground and continued on to Kidd. There was a store and a pool hall. Sawmilling precipitated the establishment of a school. Kidd remained fairly small, having a 1929 population of 29. STAFF Grand Trunk Pacific timetable 1914 Valley Museum and Archives, McBride, BC Miss Marjorie V. Giles Miss P. Haslam Miss Elsie Eccles Miss Nancy Sanders Kidd Elementary Local Happenings A delightful evening was spent at Dome Creek on St. Patrick’s Day when Miss Eileen Avery entertained at bridge. The prize-winners were Mrs. H. Westerlund, Mrs. Wm. Reade, Miss Nancy Sanders and C. Nelson… Note: Eileen Avery taught at Dome Creek; Nancy Sanders at Kidd School. March 16, 1933 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Advertisement, September 27, 1927 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Timber Sale X11364 Sealed tenders will be received by the Minister of Lands at Victoria, B.C. not later than noon on the 16th day of May, 1929, for the purchase of License XI1364 to cut 1,584,000 F.B.M. of Spruce and Balsam on the Fractional East half of Lot 3283 and Lot 7634 about 2 ½ miles East of Kidd Station, Canadian National Railway, Cariboo Land District. Five (5) years will be allowed for removal of timber. Further particulars of the Chief Forester, Victoria, B.C. or District Forester Prince George, B.C. May 16, 1929 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Did You Know? T here was no road access out of the area until the late 1960’s when the Yellowhead/ Highway 16 was completed. A trunk road enabled Kidd residents to connect with the Dome Creek road. I n the late 1960’s Northwood Mills, Ltd. acquired, then closed, the local sawmill at Kidd. Instead, logging trucks hauled the timber all the way to a central mill in Prince George using the new highway. King George V - Prince George City Elementary 1914-2003 747 Winnipeg Street, Prince George MISSION STATEMENT Under the guidance of our team approach, in partnership with parents and the community, our children will strive to develop the fullest of their potential. The structured, safe, nurturing and multicultural environment we are providing will allow each student attending KGV to grow in all the academic, social, physical and emotional areas. PRINCE GEORGE CITY ELEMENTARY K i n g G e o r g e V El e m e n t a ry 1 98 0’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The history of KGV spanned a period of 88 years. The school underwent several changes of name and location during this period. In 1914, the first school in the city of Prince George was held in three small cottages located at 5th Avenue and Vancouver Street with Miss W.L. Hammond as principal. In 1915, the first public school was built at 7th and Winnipeg Street. Grades one to eight were taught in four large classrooms. Miss Hammond was the principal of Prince George City Elementary. Staff members were: Mrs. Warner, Miss Milligan and Mrs. Cook. When an eight-room school was built nearby, this building was vacated and remained empty for several years until it become the city’s high school and was renamed Baron Byng. P ri n c e G e o rg e P u b l i c S c h o o l 1 92 2 The Exploration Place P983.12.100 King George V - Prince George City Elementary P r i n c e G e o r g e C i t y E l e m e n t ar y S c h o o l 1 9 2 2 KING GEORGE V ELEMENTARY The Exploration Place P982.30.50 This new building was originally called Prince George City Elementary School. It was also referred to as Prince George Public School. Later, the name was changed to King George V Elementary School. On January 21, 1922, Mayor J.H. Johnson, School Inspector Gower and School Board Chairman W.J. Pitman opened the school. The school was 60’ x 94’ in dimension and cost $43,000. It had a full cement basement and two storeys above. In 1929, there were 419 students in the eight classrooms (over 45 per class). Two major additions were made to KGV in the 1960’s and 1970’s, adding a new gym, new classrooms, a new office area, and a new library. The school was closed in 2003 with only 110 students in K-7. The building complex was demolished in 2006. ENROLLMENT YEAR 1921 1926 1931 1936 1941 1945 1950 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1984 1990 1995 1998 2002 GRADES # 1-10 279 1-8 377 1-8 387 1-8 329 1-8 315 1-6 332 1-6 488 1-6 297 1-6 299 1-7 509 K-7 488 K-7 394 K-7 260 K-7 403 K-7 442 K-7 293 K-7 217 K-7 110 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) K G V E l e m e n t a r y G r ad e 4 C l a ss 1 9 4 7 The Exploration Place 2004.2.374 King George V - Prince George City Elementary P R I N C I PA L S 1936-2003 Tom m y Car m ic h a el M r. J . Coo ke R a lph G ar dn er W il W ie ns Vic Mowb r a y A l an Re ay Lyle F lem i ng Ray Bow er B i ll Vo t h Ric har d Po t t er Neil Lali be r t e E d Be ll Har r y Huf t y Don B as s er m a nn M adel eine Cr an d e ll E r ic Dod d C r ai g Br e n n a n J ohn Mac k ie K i n g G e o r g e V E l e m e n t ar y S t af f 1 9 5 2 The Exploration Place 2004.2.299 V E T E R A N STAFF Jean Bude shei m Je ann ie Cho w Pa t Yip VIC E PRIN C IPAL S 1956- 2001 W il W ie ns Vic Mowb r a y Lar r y F inde n P et er Vr ees w ijk S ue Dia k iw Don M ull is G eor ge S auv e M adel eine Cr and ell A njul a Cor bin Ch r i s Dug da le K i n g G e o r g e V E l e m e n t ar y S t af f 1 9 9 9 The Exploration Place P982.30.50 King George V - Prince George City Elementary Unique Programs FRANCOPHONE PROGRAMS From 1984-1999, Programme Cadre classes were available at King George V. This program was designed for those students who had at least one parent whose mother tongue was French or their first language was French. It was a provincial program created to further the development of a French linguistic and cultural identity in communities around the province. The program followed the provincial curriculum but instruction was entirely in French. Federal funding originally supported the program. In 1999, a separate provincial School District, Conseil Scolaire Francophone, was created to accommodate these students. School District #93, Ecole Franco-Nord, occupied an upstairs wing of KGV from 1999-2003. The French Education Authority purchased Seymour Elementary School, when it was closed in 2003 and the program moved to this location. SPECIAL EDUCATION & DAY CARE ACCOMMODATION There were district special education students enrolled at KGV throughout the 1970’s and 1980’s. These classes ranged from hard of hearing students, to language-delayed students, to mentally and physically handicapped students. At first these students were in separate classrooms and integrated into regular classrooms for some subject areas such as art and music. Later on these students were enrolled in regular classrooms with individualized support. The original YMCA after school child care program was located at KGV, Harwin and Spruceland schools before space and transportation was made available at the Massey Drive location. SHARED ACCOMMODATION WITH DUCHESS PARK K G V M on i t or P i n 19 90 ’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection From 1998 -2003, Art and Drama students from Duchess Park occupied four classrooms in the original section of the school. This created a multi-age setting and exposure to high school artwork and drama presentations. King George V - Prince George City Elementary SPORTS Teachers at KGV sponsored rugby, soccer, cross-country running, basketball, volleyball, swimming, and track and field teams over the years. Indoor relays, Jump Rope for Heart and Hop-a-thon for Muscular Dystrophy took place in the gymnasium. A school sports day usually occurred in the last weeks of June. S p o r t s D ay a t M a s i c h S t ad i u m 2 0 0 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection C h i l dr e n ’ s R a c e o n P l ay g r o u n d P r i n c e G e o r g e C i t y S ch o o l 1 9 2 2 The Exploration Place P985.15.1 N e w L o g o o n Y e ar b o o k C o v e r 1 9 9 3 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection King George V - Prince George City Elementary SPECIAL EVENTS Many extra curricular activities and special events such as Halloween parties, craft afternoons, skating parties, magic shows, dress-up days, carnival days, public speaking events, primary and intermediate choirs, science fairs, book fairs, invention days, children’s festival days, chess tournaments, native dancing, and Remembrance days were sponsored by teachers and parents. A Christmas Concert was always a popular school event. C h r i st m a s C o n c e r t 1 99 0’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection C h r i st m a s C o n c e r t 1 95 6 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection P ri n ce G e o rg e O p e re t t a G o l d i l o c k’ s Ad ve n t u r e P r i n c e s s T h e a t r e 1 93 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection W i n t e r Ca r n i v al S n o w S c u lp t u r e 1 9 8 0 ’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection King George V - Prince George City Elementary 75th Anniveary Celeations 75 t h An n i ve rs a ry P r o g r a m 19 97 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection L e t t e r f r o m Q u e e n t o KG V 1 9 9 7 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection King George V - Prince George City Elementary PRINCE GEORGE PUBLIC SCHOOL OPENING CELEBRATION 1922 On Saturday afternoon the formal opening of the City’s new eight-room school took place with a ceremony that fittingly marked the completion of a building that is a great credit to Prince George, and which would be hard to find excelled in any city of this class in the world. The school building is 60 by 94 feet in dimension. It has a full cement basement and two storeys above this. The contract price was $43,000, but this will be slightly exceeded by extra work required. Wide bright hallways and stairways divide the rooms and allow ample room for children in clearing the classrooms during recess. The ceremony on Saturday afternoon was commenced by W.P. Beal, principal of the local schools, who opened the programme with an address and welcome, on behalf of the staff. Mr. Beal spoke upon the advantage of the new building, which contained all the pupils, except the high school grade, under one roof. His Worship Mayor Johnson then delivered his address in which he declared the school open. “Nine years ago there was one log school building in Central Fort George and one about the same in South Fort George, each employing one teacher, and with pupils just enough to keep going, and today we have this modern building of eight rooms and thirteen teachers in the community. It is a pleasure to see so many parents here this afternoon, for it demonstrates your vital interest. And I would like to say that in order to get the best results there must be hearty cooperation between parents and teachers. And now in conclusion, ladies and gentlemen, I declare this building, the Prince George Public School, formally opened, and may success, happiness and good citizenship ever abide within and without.” Ex-Mayor Wilson, School-Inspector Gower, and School Board Chairman W.J. Pitman also made well-received addresses. Mrs. S.P. Ronnery then sang “A Winter Lullaby,” by De Koven, with charming effect. The talented singer was in exceptionally good voice and received a splendid reception. January 24, 1922 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Lakewood Elementary 950 Kerry Street, Prince George MISSION STATEMENT Our mission is to help learners fully develop their potential as productive and resourceful members of society by providing appropriate and effective educational programs, services and resources within a positive, but disciplined climate. 1973-2003 Lakew ood E lem ent a ry 200 2 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY Lakewood Elementary School was opened on September 1, 1973. It was named after the Lakewood subdivision. The school had a gym, a library and sixteen classrooms. As the enrollment declined over the years, space was allocated for a computer room and a music room. The opening of several moveable walls doubled the size of a few classrooms. The playground was quite large, complete with a track, baseball diamond and soccer field. When the school closed in 2003, Lakewood students moved to Spruceland Elementary and Foothills Elementary. AiMHi purchased the school and property. The building and grounds are now a centre for people who are mentally challenged, and it offers programs for them in the community. Lakewood Elementary Fir st Sta ff 197 3 PR I N C I PA L S SD 57 Education Heritage Collection W il W iens G ar y M or r is on J ohn S uder m an A nnet t e I s bes t er Dav e F r ies en Jim B r iggs Hom me Van de M eer VICE PR I N C I PA L S Gus Agostinis Rick Manning Bruce Jansen Te d D a n y l u k Janice Wharrie La st Sta ff 200 3 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lakewood Elementary ENROLLMENT YEAR 1973 1975 1977 1979 1981 1983 1985 1987 1989 1991 1993 1995 1997 1999 2002 GRADE # K-7 457 K-7 425 K-7 432 K-7 418 K-7 365 K-7 293 K-7 258 K-7 236 K-7 217 K-7 206 K-7 210 K-7 216 K-7 254 K-7 224 K-7 217 F R E N C H I M M E R S I ON ENROLLMENT YEAR 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 GRADE # 6 18 6-7 35 6-7 39 6-7 43 6-7 52 6-7 54 6-7 56 7 23 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) In 1990-1991, Lakewood became a dual track school when Levi Bergeron came on staff as the teacher of the first grade 6 Late French Immersion Program. A French library collection was set up in time for school opening. The following year, 1991-1992, due to overcrowding, students from grade 6 and 7 Spruceland Early French Immersion were moved to Lakewood. They stayed until the close of the Lakewood program in 1998. By that time, the enrollment at Spruceland could accommodate all the Immersion students. Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Lak ewood Div. 8 Cl as s 1 977 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection There was a Special Needs Program in Lakewood from 1978 to 1997. The students were bussed in to the program and were included in classrooms and also spent time in a Resource Room setting. They had Individualized Education Programs that they worked on, but also did as much as possible with their homeroom classes. Barb Odiorne and Mary Campbell were resource room teachers in this program. Lakewood Elementary ACTIVITIES Student activities varied with changes in staff. Staff members sponsored operettas, science fairs, bicycle rodeos, special days and encouraged peer helpers. Other staff, interested in sports, coached basketball, softball, soccer, volleyball, cross country running, and track and field. The Parent Advisory Council was very active through the years organizing fund raising events and fun activities such as fun fairs and hot dog days, neighbourhood barbecues and teacher appreciation luncheons. The staff held Thank You Teas for all parents involved in driving, school and class activities, bake sales, bottle drives, etc. The PAC did a lot of fund raising and thus was able to install the adventure playground that was enjoyed by all. Another major undertaking was funding for a computer for each classroom. In 1988-1999, Rose Loewen, District Music Specialist, came on staff and taught the Kodaly Music program, the Suzuki string program and the ukuleles. She also organized junior and senior choirs. B icy cl e Rod eo 200 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Over the years, the children developed and increased their skills and talents, which led the way to many accomplishments and awards. The school’s Christmas concerts were often operettas, which involved all the school. Later, primary and intermediate classes alternated years performing an operetta. The Lakewood Choristers yearly won many awards and honours and became renowned for their musical skill and training under the guidance of Rose Loewen. Suz uki St r i ng P r ogr am 1 999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection In March 2005, she was honoured with a place in the Prince George Arts Hall of Fame and retired from teaching in June of the same year. Lakewood Elementary L a ke w o o d C h o ri s te r s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lakewood Elementary Ra nch Vis it 199 0’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Pu m p k in Ca rv i n g 1 9 9 0 ’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Che ss 1990 ’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection St udent C ouncil 19 94 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lakewood Elementary SPORTS Bas ketb al l 1 990 ’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Tra ck & Fiel d 19 90’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ba dminton 199 0’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Tug O’ War , S ports Day 19 90’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lakewood Elementary Boy s Ba sk et ba ll T eam 1 994 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection G i r ls V o l le y b al l Te am 198 3 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection School Banner 1 990 ’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lakewood Elementary Final Assemblies Pr og ra m f o r Fi n a l Ass e m bl y SD 57 Education Heritage Collection La kewoo d Div . 4 Cl a ss 2003 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lakewood Elementary Memories In September 1990, I arrived at Lakewood to set up a dual track library program as Late French Immersion was being established that year with an entry class of 20 grade 6 students. This was to be my first experience working with a French program and my high school French was somewhat rusty to say the least. The initial collection had been ordered and processed by the DRC but my job was to organize the library to accommodate the materials. This was a big learning curve as I had to order books, read book reviews in French and plan a library program for French students! The years I was involved with the program were both rewarding and challenging and I learned a great deal from these students. Lib ra ry Book Fair 199 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Marguerite MacKenzie 2009, retired teacher I loved working at Lakewood Elementary for five years in the late seventies. It was a new, vibrant, progressive school and community. My goal was to make the library a welcoming place for all. I guess I must have succeeded as one young man began to bring me his treasures. First was a barbecued trout he had caught: dressed with lime slices and barbecue sauce well-wrapped in aluminum foil [delicious]. Later, came a whole eggshell with the bottom removed with a tiny working light bulb and a fluffy chick affixed to the base. I must have passed his test this time as the next trophy was his bomb -- and would I look after it for a while? I examined the bundle of wires and batteries and thought, maybe the principal needed to see it? Gary Morrison (my principal) was aware of this boy’s fragile home situation and so called in appropriate agencies. At home they discovered a “hit list” of students this grade 6 boy wanted to eliminate. He was, of course, removed from his home for awhile and sent for counseling. Years later, I would read about his adult transgressions. Oddly enough, he never resented my treachery and, while in school, continued to share some of his escapades. Tiiu Noukas 2012, retired teacher Lakewood Elementary I was a Resource Room teacher at Lakewood Elementary of many years. During that time, the special need students were enrolled in classrooms and spent much of their day there. Many were bussed to school and picked up about 15 minutes before the actual dismissal bell. One student, very small in stature but enrolled in a grade 4 classroom, told me that her Dad was picking her up after school that day. Because I was not aware of any call from her mother to tell me that she was not to go on the bus, I disregarded her announcement that her “Dad was picking her up.” I thought that it was one of her ploys for attention and insisted that she go on the bus because she lived out of town. Of course, she resisted my attempts to get her on the bus so, in the end, I picked her up and bodily carried her to the bus. She was not happy but she stayed on the bus. Relieved that the fuss was over, I went back into the school and spoke to her aide, who informed me that indeed her Mother had called to say that her Dad would be picking her up. Well…you can imagine my surprise at this turn of events. I went running out to the front of the school but the bus had left. I jumped into my car and raced off in pursuit of the bus. After several blocks I did catch up to it and then had to get the driver to pull over. He finally did and I retrieved the girl from the bus, apologizing profusely to the child and to the bus driver. I then returned with the girl to the school and proceeded to occupy her while waiting for her father. Three thirty, four o’clock and still no father; four thirty, five o’clock and still no father! At that point, I called Mother who was wondering what had happened, but had no idea why Dad didn‘t pick her up. She had no vehicle, so she then had to call relatives to see if they could pick her up. Finally, around 5:30 or later, her grandfather arrived to get her so all was well in her world. I was left rather dismayed but satisfied and went home myself. Mary Campbell 2012, retired teacher Sta ff at Fu n Fair 197 7 Courtesy of Tiiu Noukas, retired teacher Lakewood Elementary Choice School Policy The school board issued a new policy on establishing Choice Schools during the 2002 year. This could include French Immersion, Montessori, Fine Arts, Technical or other designated dual stream schools. Many schools that were placed on the closure list in that same year applied for a Choice School designation. LAKEWOOD DESERVES FINE ARTS DESIGNATION OVER KGV, PARENT SAYS P rince George school trustees, have at least one more proposal for a fine art school in the city. Parents of King George V are desperately seeking the designation in an effort to keep their school open. The effort has been successful in getting the school at least a one-year reprieve. Lakewood Elementary has also sent a letter to the school board seeking a fine arts title. “It’s just unbelievable,” said Susan Tindale, a mother of three children at Lakewood, in reaction to the possibility Lakewood would not be considered a fine arts school. “We’ve had music as part of the curriculum at Lakewood for the past 11 years,” she said. Tindale said she understands the reaction of the parents of children attending KGV, but she’s hard pressed to see the logic in giving a fine arts designation to any school other than Lakewood. “We’re the only school in the district that’s had a continuous music program for 11 years, we’ve been involved with the speech arts, music and dance festivals for years. It seems we are already a fine arts school, we just haven’t got the title.” The school also has a kiln to teach pottery. Students from Lakewood have won numerous local and provincial honours for their efforts in the arts, and in 1998 a choir from Lakewood competed in Music Fest Canada, coming home with the gold medal. “In the 2001 B.C. Festival of the Arts, our choir came in first in the 10 years and under category and then went on to finish second in the national championship,” said Tindale. “As far as I know, there’s never been another school choir from Prince George go to the nationals.” The school provides a forum for its students to perform every couple of months throughout the school year and its students flock to competitions such the the Prince George and District Speech Arts Festival each year, she said. “I just don’t see any other elementary school with the commitment to the arts that Lakewood has, “ said Tindale. Tindale has a unique perspective regarding the commitment of the arts of Lakewood Elementary. She is a former president of the Prince George Music Festival and a former member of the Lakewood Parent Advisory Council. The staff at Lakewood also shows its interest in the arts each lunch hour. Students are presented with a different piece of classical music for 15 minutes at the beginning of each lunch period. Each week features a different composer. This concept caught the attention of the Prince George Symphony Orchestra. During a conductor search the PGSO auditioned each of its four applicants in front of Lakewood students. “It was interesting to talk to the conductors, they were surprised by how knowledgeable our children were about classical music,” said Tindale… July 12, 2002 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Lakewood Junior Secondary 4131 Rainbow Drive, Prince George 1968-2010 “Where everybody is a somebody” Mission Statement To encourage our students to explore opportunities during a period of many transitions in their lives, while developing a sense of personal and social responsibility and an awareness of the importance of learning. Lakewood Junior Secondary School 2008 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History Lakewood Junior Secondary was built in response to the surge in the population of Prince George that resulted from the construction of the pulp mills in the mid to late 1960’s. New homes were being built on the west side of the “Bypass” (Highway 97) and families with children were moving in. Lakewood students had to start on shift at Duchess Park Secondary in 1967 and then moved into the new building in September 1968. Lakewood was state-of-the-art for 1968 with several new ideas incorporated into its design. Some of the upstairs classrooms could be converted into larger teaching areas if needed. The gym was put in the centre of the school and had a motorized partition that could divide it in two. There was a stage on one side of the gym as well as seating for 400 students on pull–out bleachers. The shops were placed in an annex that was reached by a covered walkway. Lakewood Junior Secondary Bleachers 1973-1974 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection With the continued growth of Prince George into the 1970’s, new schools were being built but not fast enough for schools to avoid sharing space with another school. From September 1972 to Spring Break 1973, the students of the soon-to-be John McInnis Junior Secondary were on shift at Lakewood Junior Secondary. As the population of Prince George matured, the number of school-aged children declined. Also, being a junior secondary was a disadvantage to Lakewood when secondary schools with grades 8 to 12 became popular. Lakewood was a feeder school for Prince George Secondary but the students could also go to D.P. Todd Secondary, which many of them lived close to. These grade 8-12 schools could offer more flexibility for students wanting to take senior courses in grade 10 and had a greater choice of electives. As a result, the population of Lakewood Junior declined, especially after the 1990’s. By 2005, the school board was considering closing Lakewood but an unexpected budget surplus and presentations by parents and students gave the school a reprieve. In 2007, Montessori students in grades 7 to 9 were placed in Lakewood Junior but this was not enough to make the school viable. The school board made the decision to close Lakewood as of June 2010. Recommendation 2: Grade 8 and 9 Montessori students to move to PGSS. Grade 7 Montessori to be offered at Highglen. Grades 8 and 9 to be split amongst PGSS, Duchess Park and D.P. Todd. Grade 10 students go to PGSS. Lakewood to be reopened as a single track K – 7 French Immersion school. ~ p. 8 of the minutes of the regular School Board public meeting held March 30, 2010 Lakewood Junior Secondary DEMOGRAPHICS When Lakewood Junior Secondary first opened it had an upwardly mobile population. Looking at the early yearbooks one could see that the students had been born in various cities in British Columbia and western Canada, but rarely in Prince George itself. That changed as the city matured and newer subdivisions were built. Along with most of Prince George, the diversity of students attending Lakewood Junior increased over the years. Lakewood Junior Secondary students 1996-1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Students 1991-1992 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The majority of the Lakewood Junior students could walk to school with the exception of Cranbrook Hill and Miworth students who were bussed. The low number of bus students made for easy participation in after-school activities. Lakewood Junior Secondary ENROLLMENT YEAR 1968 1971 1977 1982 1987 1992 1997 2002 2007 2009 GRADE # 8-10 747 8-10 877 8-10 698 8-10 531 8-10 411 8-10 511 8-10 518 8-10 326 7-10 314 7-10 266 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) PRINCIPALS Ted Lea Art Erasmus Doug Forrest Ron Bacon Norm Monroe Arnold Boomhower Robin Dielissen Glenn Monteith Richard Dougherty Carmen Eberle VICE PRINCIPALS Jim Imrich Ron Bacon Roy Hooker Jim DeWolf Glenn Monteith Peter Goudal Kap Manhas Sarah Petrisor Ted Lea, first principal 1973-1974 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lakewood Junior Secondary EARLY STAFF John Abrahams Sharon Alefounder Jeanne Anderson Peter Andres Helen Birdsall Jane Bishop Ernie Block Helena Boyle Pat Brady Don Bryce Dolores Caldwell Jim Caldwell Charles Freeman Judy Freeman Noel Gantly Frank Gibbons Colleen Kelly Sig Kuehn Eve Lamoureux Sean McDaid Elizabeth Markey Peter Marsh Roger Martin George North Ross Pearce Gail Pellizzari Jake Penner Brian Perrett Allen Porter Evelyn Robertson Ivan Ross Norm Schuler Mark Shirreff Peter Stan Margaret Suen Robert Wall Ron West Lois Withers Staff 2002-2003 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lakewood Junior Secondary PROGRAMS EXPANDED FUNDAMENTALS In 1969 Lakewood implemented a trimester timetable. English and math were taken in all three semesters. The idea was to improve students’ skills in these fundamental courses. All other courses were taken in 2 of the 3 trimesters. It was difficult to come up with a workable timetable and that may have led to the demise of this arrangement. By the 1980’s Lakewood had switched to a semester timetable. The basics were still given additional time, however. There were three streams: “A”, “B” and “C”. The “B” and “C” streams had English and math in both semesters with the “C” stream also having a class size limit of 25. Students who had shown that they could handle a faster pace took the “A” stream for one semester only. Lakewood Junior students flourished under this system and were ranked above average in the district-wide grade 10 skills tests. In 1982, when the school was maligned by parents at a school board meeting, several students wrote to the Prince George Citizen to defend Lakewood. This is an excerpt from one of the letters: We are definitely disciplined and not an ungoverned group of students. Furthermore, according to The Citizen’s honour roll publication last February, 65% of the students that were on the PGSS grade 11 honour roll came from Lakewood. This is quite an achievement considering that four junior secondary schools feed into PGSS. April 20, 1982 Courtesy of ALTERNATE EDUCATION AND PEP Alternate Education was available throughout Lakewood’s history, taught for many years by Scotty Raitt. In addition, the district’s Career Programs moved into available space at Lakewood Junior Secondary during the last two decades of the school’s existence. Students had easy access to information about Work Experience, Apprenticeship, Career Prep and the Career Technical Centre. The Prince George Citizen Alternate Education winning softball team 2008-2009 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lakewood Junior Secondary MONTESSORI Parents of Montessori students in the elementary grades had been asking for an extension of the program into high school for some time. In 2007, a grade 7 to 9 program was introduced at Lakewood Junior. The academic foundation courses – English, math, social studies and science – were taught in the Montessori room in an integrated fashion. The electives and P.E. were taken in the regular timetable. In spite of the interest shown by parents the total enrollment for the three grades was only about 20-25 students. MUSIC PROGRAM There was a strong band program during the history of Lakewood Junior Secondary. At various times there were junior and senior bands, stage band and concert band. The bands went on trips, including ones to Edmonton and Seattle. Choral 8, Chorus 9/10 and Beginning Guitar were also offered. Band at Musicfest Canada May 1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Choir 1981-1982 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lakewood Junior Secondary SPORTS Lakewood’s school mascot was a lake monster called “Louie the Laker”. He was chosen through a contest involving students and staff. There was a blue costume that a student wore to play the mascot at games and school events. Mascot SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Throughout its history Lakewood Junior maintained active volleyball and basketball teams in spite of declining enrollment. The school had many talented athletes that went on to success at the senior level at Prince George Secondary. Even at the junior level, Lakewood teams were successful, winning district championships and going to provincials on at least one occasion. For a number of years, the girls’ teams were called the Lakettes rather than the Lakers. There was also a cheerleading club for many years. Junior Girls’ Volleyball team 1991-1992 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lakewood Junior Secondary Grade 9/10 Boys’ Basketball team 1981-1982 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection In the early years, there were track, football, swimming, curling, bowling and badminton offered as extracurricular sports. The Lakewood badminton team won 6 out of 7 events at a 1974 tournament against two other secondary schools. In later years, golf and hockey replaced most of these sports. However, track and field remained popular. Track team 1997-1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lakewood Junior Secondary ACTIVITIES Lakewood was an active school with dances and specialty days. The grade 10 students had a banquet and year-end dance to mark their transition to senior secondary. Grade 10 year-end banquet 2009 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Besides the Terry Fox Run and costumes on Halloween, Lakewood Junior also had a “Twin Day”, where students dressed like a friend, and an Aboriginal Education Week. A popular event was Incentive Day, which was a reward for good behaviour. Students were offered a variety of activities such as roller-skating, skiing, going to an arcade and swimming. Students paid for the events and the school provided transportation. Students not included stayed behind at the school and worked on their studies. In later years, the leadership class often organized activities. One such competition was securing a student to the gym wall with duct tape. At the end of the school year there was a “Burger Bash” with hamburgers being cooked outside on a grill. Leadership class activity 1999-2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lakewood Junior Secondary CLUBS Outdoors Club The outdoors club had a large and active membership under the sponsorship of Peter Marsh and Jim Caldwell. In the winter the students went on snowshoeing trips and in the spring it was hiking and canoeing. Safety was emphasized as well as the skills needed for each activity. Ski Club The main purpose of the ski club was to prepare for a ski trip to Jasper. In order to be eligible for the trip, students had to attend dry-land training sessions. Non-athletic Clubs Not all clubs required physical activity. In the first decades of Lakewood Junior there was a chess club, a science club, a library/film club, a math club, a stamp club and a newspaper club that produced the “Lakewood Times”. The film club showed films at lunch to entertain their fellow students. Chess Club 1972-1973 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lakewood Junior Secondary Did You Know? I n the early days of Lakewood Junior, Mr. Brady gave a challenge to his Cooking and Food Services 9 students. Could they eat an entire “Hero Burger”, consisting of 1.5 pounds of cooked hamburger, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, pickle and relishes placed in a small Italian bread loaf? Only one student ever finished it and received the coveted “Lakewood Hero Burger Trophy”. A I fox was known to run on the outdoor track before the subdivision was fully developed. n 1991, the leaking roof caused the ceiling to fall, flooding part of the top floor. Roof Leak 1991 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I n 1991, student Matthew Hunt was honoured for bravery by the B. C. Royal Lifesaving Society for rescuing 22 month-old Jesse Williams from flooding Baker Creek, near Quesnel. Jesse fell into the creek after crawling away from his family. Matthew waded in when he saw the baby floating face down in the swollen creek. Matthew, 13, received a medal from Lt.-Gov. David Lam during a ceremony in Vancouver. He was also presented with a plaque from the Prince George Native Friendship Centre. T L I he area to the west of the school was a blueberry patch. akewood Junior Secondary was the first school in the district to have a business manager. n keeping with the fad of the time, Lakewood had a streakers’ club in 1973-1974. Streakers’ Club 1973-1974 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Memories Lakewood Junior Secondary I thoroughly enjoyed my years at Lakewood, particularly the Cooking and Food Services 9 course that I taught. This course was for boys only and after teaching one class in my first year I “topped out” at four classes. It was quite fascinating to watch those 15 and 16 year olds learn and practice. Trying to make and bake an apple pie in a fifty-minute class was a challenge. Pat Brady 2009, retired teacher SD57 Education Heritage Collection When I was in grade 10 at Lakewood Junior we had a rugby game vs. Blackburn Junior Secondary. This was different in that both teams had staff members playing with students from their school. Blackburn had always had a very strong program and their first losses in years had come to an up and coming Lakewood squad. I had the pleasure of playing my first and only game with my father, Ross Pearce, who taught science at Lakewood Junior Secondary. Long story short, Lakewood won the game and after the game I asked my dad if he enjoyed the game. He said he had enjoyed the game but that he never wanted to play outside of me on the backline again as the only time I ever passed him the ball was when he was against the sideline with three tacklers on him. He was a bit bruised up that day and I believe it was the first time he had played rugby since he captained his University team in the 1950’s in Australia. Matt Pearce 2015, former student and SD 57 teacher Being close to Spruceland Shopping Centre, we did have some drugs around the school. Often we would get a public address system announcement: NO STUDENT OR ANYONE IS TO LEAVE THE CLASSROOM FOR THE NEXT 30 MINUTES. So we did what we were told and at the end of the day the staff was all called into the library and what was explained to us was that the police were on a drug raid. Jeanne Anderson, retired teacher, SD57 Education Heritage Collection Lakewood was the only school that I taught in where the staff room had free, open and wide ranging discussions – no one did marking. A lot of my development as a teacher I owe to the leaders on staff at that time. Jim Caldwell 2015, retired teacher It was an anomaly of a year with the closure of Lakewood Junior Secondary and a legacy left behind. Our evening concerts, Fine Arts nights, school spirit days, community gatherings have come and gone. The grade 10 final celebration dance has taken place and before long, the moving up ceremony for all our students will take place as they make the transition from their grass roots junior high to an 8 – 12 secondary. Carmen Eberle 2010, last principal of Lakewood Junior Secondary SD57 Education Heritage Collection Lakewood Junior Secondary FINAL STAFF Tina Anchikoski Barb Bauditz Jackie Bjorklund Ray Bourque Michelle Chapman Val Clarke David Davidson Carmen Eberle Anne Epp Helena Finlay Barry Hammond Caralyn Hoffman Stacy Kelsh Greg Laing Katherine Lindstrom Linda McLaughlin Harminder Manhas Brian Martinson Judy Newnham Bruce Northrop Carla O’Brien Darlene O’Neill Richard Paciejewski Kathleen Paulson Sonny Pawar Sherrie Pearce Sarah Petrisor Jennifer Pighin Jo-anne Reid Teresa Roy Vicki Schmeisser Vince Truant Erin Willson 40th Anniversary of Lakewood Junior Secondary 2008-2009 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lamming Mills Elementary LOCATION Lamming Mills was located 204 km southeast of Prince George on the CN railway line and Upper Fraser River, 10 km west of McBride in the Robson Valley area. There was no road access to the community that was originally known as “Cariboo”. The name was changed in 1920 to Craibenn, after a CN section foremen, and renamed Lamming Mills in June 1946. 1943-1965 HISTORY The first school was a one-room wooden building that burned shortly after it was built in 1943. The first teacher was Mrs. G. R. Johnson. Other early teachers were: Miss Evelyn R. Hill, Mrs. L. M. Johnson, Mrs. G. V. Suelzle, Mrs. E. A. Abbey, Mrs. Gordon Lamming and Harold Friesen. La mm i ng M i ll s S chool 19 50’ s Robson Valley Story Lamming Mills built a two-room structure, to replace the original building, that they rented to the McBride School District until the school closed in 1965. Ernie Lamming, one of partners in the mill, was the long-time chairman of the McBride School Board. Many of the mill workers belonged to the Seven Day Adventist congregation. There was a great deal of controversy in December 1949 and January 1950 over the teaching of religion in the school when the hours of instruction at Lamming Mills School were changed from 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. to 9:15 a.m.-3:15 p.m. to accommodate 15 minutes of religious instruction. The ministry reminded the McBride board that under the School Act, whether rented or not, the schoolhouse could not be used for religious instruction. There was also some controversy over the teaching of grade 9 and 10 in an elementary school setting, as the community did not want their students transported to McBride for high school instruction. The mill was sold in 1967 and many residents left the area. On June 12, 2011, fire destroyed 21 of the 52 abandoned buildings at the old townsite, which had recently been purchased for an energy free eco-industrial park. Lamming Mills Elementary ENROLLME N T YEAR 1945 1946 1947 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 GRADE # 1-9 40 1-9 38 1-9 38 1-9 45 1-9 40 1-8 42 1-8 43 1-8 45 1-8 45 1-8 47 1-8 42 1-8 40 1-8 40 1-8 42 1-8 44 1-8 63 1-8 61 1-7 28 1-7 36 1-7 35 Ab a ndoned Scho ol 1 980 Courtesy of Kent Sedgwick UNBC Upper Fraser Geography Project Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Memories One day after school it was discovered that the wood-box was on fire. Women and children removed books and whatever could be removed quickly. When the men came home from work, all that remained of the school was a few smoking embers. That evening a meeting was called, and plans were formulated to build a two-room school, complete with coal furnace and spacious cloakrooms. Men, women, and children joined forces under the direction of Mr. Clarence Stanley. All the necessary material was either on hand, or was sawn to requirements, and in a matter of two weeks, school carried on as usual, and the mill operation was back to normal. Ernie Lamming. Robson Valley Story, 1979. Lamming Mills Elementary MCBRIDE ACCOUNTS LEDGER 1949-1950 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lamming Mills Elementary YULE PLAYS, GROUP SINGING FEATURED AT LAMMING MILLS W ith a beautiful winter snow scene for the entire back wall of the stage, Lamming Mills school students performed their best Christmas program ever. Carols sung by the entire group opened the evening’s performance. Among the highlights was the 14-girl chorus dressed in black skirts and white blouses singing “Silent Night”. Following that came the singing game drill by nine primary boys and girls. “Willy Learns His Speech” was very well acted by Brian Bechthold. While five girls sang “Jingle Bells”, Dale Lamming and Phyllis Buhler enacted the scene with a horse and sleigh, plus sleigh bells, lines and whip. Seven little pupils performed the play “Grandpa’s Christmas” in which Grandpa received eight pair of slippers from his nieces and nephews. Happy conclusion was when grandpa awoke and said he’d wear a different pair each day of the week and have one pair to wear just for the holidays. Ten girls in grades I, II, III, who were dressed in white paper frocks and crowns and carrying star wands, did exceptionally well in their Star Drill. “Horton’s Christmas Trip” was a two-scene dialogue put on by the older grades. “Living Christmas Cards” was very well done with scenes depicting a snowman with snow coming down and the Nativity scene with its manger, lamb, hay, cradle and Mary; also “The Night Before Christmas” with Carol Brown dressed in a nightie standing on a stairway and holding a shining candle while Mr. Friesen read the poem. Interspersed throughout the program were humorous recitations and musical selections given by the school children. Many thanks go to Mrs. Gordon Lamming and Harold Friesen for their fine program of the evening. December 31, 1951 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Lee Elementary 1919-1950 L e e El e me n ta ry Sc h o o l 19 20’s LOCATION The Exploration Place 2003.8.32 The school was located in Dunster on the north side of the Fraser. A school, Dunster Elementary had already been established on the south side of the river near the CNR line. HISTORY Lee School was opened in 1919. A local farmer, Ed Lee, donated the property for the school. It was a one-room building with 12 students from grades 1-8. The first teacher was Mr. L. W. Heaslip. The catchment area included all families north of Highway 16, from McBride School boundary in the west to Blackwood Road in the east. The following families had children who attended Lee Elementary: Diedrichsons, Langstaffs, Moores, Pleasants and Johnsons. Over the years the enrollment varied from 11 to 15 students in Grades 1-8. Lee Elementary STAFF 1 9 1 9-1950 Mr. W. L . He a s l i p Miss L. B or d e n Miss Ma r g a r e t W i l l i a m s Miss L. M . Wa l k e r Miss F. M cL e a n Esth e r G . N a sh Mar j o r i e D u n c a n Miss E. M . N es b i t t E.M . R u s s e l l Miss C . M . Te r v o Eile e n Wr i g h t Aile e n Av e r y Je nn i e M . Ri c h a r d s Ida H o r n e ( C u t l e r ) Jeanne M. Walker (Anderson) Miss So p h i a B . K ur t i n Ru th Fe l l s ( M c N a u g h t o n ) T e a ch e r , Mi s s Wi l l i am s, an d st ud e n t s Le e El ement a ry Sc hool 192 2 The Exploration Place 2003.8.32 Facts about the school Parent volunteers built Lee School. The government supplied a grant of $250. The building was about 240 sq. ft. The walls were 7 logs high. The roof was made of cedar shake and the floor was wood. Mr. McDougall donated the flooring from a sawmill at Shere. Four or five large windows on the west side of the building captured lots of daylight. There was no electricity; gas lamps provided lighting. A shed was attached to the rear of the building to store wood for the “barrel” heater. Water was obtained from a hand pump attached to a well located at the front entrance. The toilet was an outside small wood structure near the school. Lee Elementary Lee school was closed in December 1942. Jeanne M. Anderson was the teacher at the time. The student population was amalgamated with Dunster Elementary, on the other side of the river, in January 1943. The school reopened from 1944 –1950 with Ruth Fells (McNaughton) as the teacher. In May 1952, School District No. 58 (McBride) was given approval by the Ministry of Education to sell or lease the building. J eanne Ander son , t ea cher L e e El e m e n ta ry Sc h o o l P la y gr o u n d 1 941 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Jea nne A nder son a t Ed Lee’s far m 1 941 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lee Elementary Sample entries Lee Schl Accounts Book 1933-1938 Janitor service for one mon 2.50 Insurance policy 8.65 Teacher’s salary for one mon 28.00 Wd (r cord) 4.00 18 ncils .35 Office exnses 3.50 Teacher sulies 9.64 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Memories We had all the regular textbooks and workbooks and everything. Lots of small schools, including this one, didn’t have a school board; they were run by an official trustee. My favourite story is about the first visit in October of the Official Trustee from Prince George, Harold Stafford. We heard some knocking but found no one at the door. In a few minutes, a gentleman opened the door and when I mentioned the knocking, he said he had been “sounding” the logs to see if it was safe to come in! I stood outside the school and looked at it. What was it? A shack. I would say maybe twenty-four feet long, maybe…it was one room with old wood desks with the metal frames on the right…the logs were very dark brown in colour. I don’t know if they’d ever been painted or treated or anything. Jeanne M. Anderson. An Interview with Jean Anderson. PGRTA Oral History, 2000. SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lee Elementary Lee School 194 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Memories We cleaned up at the McBride Music Festival. We got the big trophy for the whole school, but Coral Pleasants had a beautiful soprano voice and Gladys had a nice contralto and every child in the school won something. If it wasn’t in choral speech, it was a recitation of their own. Anyhow, that was the only school I had where they didn’t want to sing through their noses, you know, the old Western hillbilly stuff. Hans and Melonie Diedrickson were wonderful hosts. I had a little bright bedroom with pink roses, lots of them, all over the wallpaper…Lonnie was a good cook. We had marvelous potato and cabbage soup and wild meat…Lonnie canned like mad. She canned peas in beer bottles…she’d cap them with a bottle capper and boil them. It worked perfectly well. We had dances once a month at Dunster Hall down by Blackwoods and we visited round a bit among the families. I think the highlight of the year was when we all got on the speeder and went to Tete Jaune to a Polish wedding dance. The foreman on the track crew had sent back to Poland for a bride. Ida Cutler. Interview with Ida Cutler, Pioneer Teacher. PGRTA Oral History, 1988. SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lee Elementary Lee Sc hool C res t 1 941 R o y a l B lu e & Go ld SD 57 Education Heritage Collection SCHOOL ACTIVITIES The Prince George Citizen featured a Dunster column, which reported activities in the community and surrounding area for many years, including Lee School. VALENTINE PARTY The Lee School entertained Dunster School at a Valentine party last Friday. HIGHEST STANDING Games were played and the party ended with the exchange of Valentine cards between the children. Lunch was served by the Lee School. At the high school entrance examinations for McBride centre, the highest standing was taken by Russell Boyd of Lee School. February 17, 1949 August 1, 1942 The Prince George Citizen The Prince George Citizen Courtesy of Courtesy of Longworth Elementary 1921-1966 LOCATION The schools were located 85 km east of Prince George on the north side of the Fraser River on the CN Railway, between Sinclair Mills and Penny. The area was originally inaccessible by road. Lo ngwo rt h (U ni t ed) El ement a ry 19 82 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY Originally there were two schools in this area, Longworth and Longworth South. Longworth South operated from 1927 to 1939. The two schools became Longworth Rural United School District in September 1939 when a new one-room school was built. The first teacher of Longworth United was Miss Marjorie Johnston. The united districts not only saved local taxes and one teacher’s salary but also combined the equipment of both schools. Longworth School was built in 1920 on a site donated by the Longworth Lumber Co. This school became known as the “mill school.” It was a 38’ x 16’ frame structure built inside and out with plain unfinished boards. It was furnished and equipped by the Department of Education. The first teacher was Miss Doris Webb. Increased attendance in 1924 necessitated the building of an addition of eight feet, which was added to the east end of the school. In 1928, the inside walls were papered with felt paper and, in 1929, a library was obtained. Longw ort h Sc hool 192 8 BC Archives Collections G-06392 Longworth Elementary E A R LY S TA F F ENR O L L M E N T YEAR 1945 1947 1949 1951 1953 1955 1957 1959 1961 1963 1965 GRADE # 1-8 10 2-7 9 1-8 11 1-8 9 1-8 13 1-7 10 1-6 8 1-8 12 1-8 12 1-6 8 1-7 8 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) S chool G ro up at Long wor t h 193 0’s The Exploration Place P996.4.7 1921-1948 Miss Doris V. Webb Mr. N.G. Willing Miss Nina A. Mathers Miss Inez Bashaw Mrs. Jean Gething Miss Jean A.C. Graham Miss Marjorie H. Munroe Miss M.A. Winkler Miss M.C. Quin Miss Hilda K. Styan Miss L .J. Edgcumbe Miss Annie L. Rice Mrs. H.K. Mark Miss N.G. Elgie Mr. W. S. McNabb Miss Alice M. Smith Miss Jean McGeachy Mr. G. Ewart Walker Miss Marjorie Johnston Mrs. Kozak Miss Betty B. Edgcumbe Mr. Ashley J. Bodaly Mr. Otto E. Wahl Miss Josephine I. Monteith Mrs. Joan Markwick Miss M.G. Irvine Miss E. S. Thompson Mrs. F. Backman Mrs. Margaret MacLeod Longworth Elementary ADVERTISEMENT IN THE LONGWORTH POST OFFICE 1939 A.C. Read, Postmaster SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lo ngwo rt h P ost Offi c e 19 82 Courtesy of John Stevens, Assistant Superintendent SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Longworth Elementary DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL INSPECTION, PUBLIC SCHOOLS 1939 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Longworth Elementary Memories In the 1980’s, sufficient correspondence students registered from the Longworth area to justify the opening of a Section 7 School. Under the School Act of the day, Section 7 provided for the payment of a correspondence supervisor where there were insufficient students to warrant the establishment of a school. By agreement with School District No. 57 (Prince George), the correspondence supervisor, with help from the Longworth community, used the long closed Longworth School to conduct classes and assist students in completing correspondence courses. Surplus furniture was provided by the district stores department to help make this arrangement a success. Lon gwor t h C orr espond ence St udent s 1982 John Stevens 2009, retired Assistant Superintendent Int er ior o f Cl as sr oom 198 2 Courtesy of John Stevens SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Courtesy of John Stevens SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Longworth Elementary LONGWORTH SCHOOLS HOLD ANNUAL CONCERT Longworth: (Special) - The Longworth and Longworth South schools on the night of December 17, held their Christmas tree and concert in Longworth Hall. The concert was a decided success as the pupils of both schools gave a good entertainment, the result of the efficient training given by their respective teachers, Mr. Waller and Mr. McNabb. The pupils were all well pleased with their presents which showed judicious selections by the teachers. Santa Claus being a special feature of the entertainment, was greatly enjoyed by the children who showed their appreciation by the hearty cheers they gave for Santa Claus and their teachers. After the concert the older people enjoyed themselves with dancing into the wee hours of the morning. A well prepared lunch was served by the ladies. December 23, 1937 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen LONGWORTH The Longworth school has opened for the fall term with 33 pupils of all grades, including grade IX, with Miss Elgie of Vancouver as teacher. September 3, 1931 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Loos Elementary 1919-1965 LOCATION The school was located 161 km northeast of Prince George, off Highway 16, 56 kilometres from McBride, on the CN railway near the Fraser River. Loos School 1 960’ s Courtesy of Bill Arnold, Robson Valley Story HISTORY Loos School was a one-room structure that opened in 1919. The first teacher was Miss Norma Bevier. The population of the community at this time was eighty-five people. The settlement was named after the 1915 World War I Battle of Loos in France. Sawmilling, logging and placer mining were the main activities of the community. Leboe, Alderson, Johnson, Fuglem, Renshaw, Westgarde and Evanoff were some of the families that had children attending the school in this area. A Loos-Crescent Spur Parent Teachers’ Association was formed in 1952. The PTA held whist drives and other social activities to purchase equipment and materials for the schools at Loos and Crescent Spur. When the Loos School closed in 1965, the students were bussed to McBride. Loos Elementary E A R LY S TA F F ENRO L L M E N T YEAR 1945 1947 1949 1951 1953 1955 1957 1959 1961 1963 1965 GRADE # 1-8 27 1-8 20 2-8 17 1-7 8 1-8 11 1-8 12 1-7 15 1-5 9 1-8 14 1-7 16 1-8 18 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Miss Norma Bevier Miss Gladys Rhodes Miss E. Sophie Kolosoff Miss V. Crandlemire Miss Lottie K. Davis Miss Bessie Leith Miss Dorothy Dewar Miss Rita Maloney Mr. Alvin O. Leboe Miss E. V. Archer Miss Betty Davies Miss Dorothy M. Urquhart Miss Helen Green Mrs. Jean Ledgerwood Miss N. L. Williamson Mrs. A. M. Renshaw Miss L. M. Starratt Mrs. Orlean Westgarde Mr. M. J. Friesen Miss L. Pottage Mr. G. H. Fellows Miss Edna Goldberger Mr. Don McRae Loos Schoo l C la ss 19 47 Melva & Abe Phillips Collection, Robson Valley Story Loos Elementary A column appeared in the Prince George Citizen in the 1940’s and 1950’s under the byline “CRESCENT SPUR”. The column reported on local gossip as well as community functions taking place at the Loos and Crescent Spur Schools. The following excerpts are taken from this column: Dr. Ryall of McBride spent Saturday at Loos school vaccinating children and adults with smallpox serum and continued on to Crescent Spur to vaccinate the children there. April 18, 1946 Miss Kay Fuglem and Mrs. J. Hilde finished cleaning up after kalsomining the Loos School. Everything is in order for the school term. September 9, 1948 Sunday evening service and lantern slides were held in Loos School. October 30, 1947 The District School Inspector spent the afternoon of October 19 at the Loos School reviewing the work presented by the pupils of Miss Edna Goldberger and a school board meeting was held that evening. October 30, 1950 The ball teams are practising for May 24 when Crescent Spur School will play Loos School. May 22, 1952 A Loos Ladies Aid Sale, fish pond, bingo, also a raffle of a satin quilt, will be held at Loos School Saturday evening. February 19, 1953 A Social Credit meeting was held at Loos School with 22 members present and four delegates elected to attend the convention. April 23, 1953 A school meeting held at the Loos School elected Mrs. Mattie Leboe for Loos and Wilfred Leboe for Crescent Spur as representatives for the year. November 19, 1953 Loos Elementary LOOS SCHOOL BOARD RECORDS 1929-1945 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lucerne Elementary 1915-1925 1955-1958 L u c e rn e To w n si t e 19 10’ s LOCATION The Exploration Place 2003.22.38 Lucerne School was located 32 km west of Jasper, 16 km from the BC-Alberta border on the CN railway near Lucerne and Yellowhead Lakes in Mount Robson Provincial Park. HISTORY A one-room school was built during 1915-1916. Miss Grace B. Wood was the first teacher that enrolled 11 students in grades 1-10. In 1917, Mrs. M. N. Thame, wife of the BC Provincial Police Officer stationed in the community, took over the duties as teacher. In 1921, Lucerne was one of the largest communities in the Robson Valley. Most of the families were dependent on the railway, which ran a large roundhouse and marshalling yards at the terminal of the Canadian Northern Railway. In 1924, when the Grand Trunk Pacific and the Canadian Northern Railway were joined, the towns of Jasper and Lucerne were amalgamated and Lucerne almost disappeared. The school was closed in June 1925. A school reopened in temporary headquarters in 1955 and operated until June 1958 with ten students enrolled in grades 1-8. There is now a provincial campsite at Lucerne. Lucerne Elementary EARLY S TA F F Mis s G r a c e B . Wo o d Mrs. M.N. Thane M i s s W. E . H u g h e s Mr. E . M . N o r s w o r t h y Miss M.B. Mills J.D.H. Kirk Lucer ne St at ion 1920 ’s The Exploration Place 2003.26.1808 Mackenzie Elementary 32 Heather Crescent, Mackenzie 1966-2010 “Home of the Mac Pac” Mission Statement Constant improvement of teaching and learning for the success of all. Mackenzie Elementary School 1990s Courtesy of Mackenzie and District Museum History The instant forestry town of Mackenzie developed because of the building of the WAC Bennett Dam and the flooding of Williston Lake. Sawmill employees and their families moved into Mackenzie in 1966. The early months were a pioneer experience for those families as there were few services available. First school in Mackenzie consisted of portable classrooms 1966 Mackenzie and District Museum 2003.15.205 Mackenzie Elementary The townsite was only a few streets cut out of the forest, with mud everywhere; no stores, no services and a 29 km road of rutted gravel to the Hart Highway. For awhile there were two narrow roads used, one into Mackenzie and the other to drive out. For shopping or medical help the families drove the 190 km to Prince George. Even after getting out to the Hart Highway the route was narrow and winding with many blind curves. However, progress was being made. By the end of 1966 thirty houses and fifty townhouses ,along with some trailers, were ready and approximately sixty families moved into town. Water and electricity became available, although at first water was being trucked in and put into a tank, giving quite low pressure. There was no telephone service until January 1967. Almost every family had infants and school-age children. In September 1966, School District #57 moved in two portable classroom buildings. When these arrived they were very dirty and a few mothers cleaned and scrubbed them because the school board did not have anyone in town to do it. The portables had electric lights but no running water. For heat there were pot-bellied stoves and the toilets were outhouses. These two portable classrooms accommodated grades 1-7. Older children from grade 8 up took correspondence courses or stayed in dorms in Prince George. All the classes went on shifts and the three teachers were Miss Yoko Kobiashi, Mrs. Murphy and Mr. Baker, the principal. More children kept coming all the time. There were 42 children in the first two grades when Mrs. Murphy left and Mrs. Grace Briggs took over. She had previously taught high school chemistry and biology. She later stated that she had never worked so hard in her life as with these first and second graders. All the children were crowded so close together in one classroom that there was no room for the teacher to move around. Source: Mai Veemes, Mackenzie B.C. Turns Twenty. Mackenzie’s Anniversary Committee, 1985 Construction of the 16-room school and gymnasium 1968 Courtesy of Mackenzie and District Museum Mackenzie Elementary A brand-new 16 room school was approved for Mackenzie. SD 57 utilized Allan Greenwell’s successful design used the previous year for Carney Hill, Austin Road, Beaverly, Spruceland, Highland, and Blackburn Elementary schools. The building contract was awarded to Basarab Construction Co. Ltd. of Prince George. By May 1968, four classrooms were ready and promptly occupied. The original school’s two portables were moved and set up for community use: one at the ski hill and the other at the rodeo grounds. By September 1968, grades 8 to 10 were added to the enrollment and the school’s name became Mackenzie Elementary Junior Secondary. By then the building was completed, but not fully occupied. The staff expanded and included Sandra (Germaine) Wilkie, Marie Tapio, Bernice Trick, Jeanie Barwise, Dick Longman, plus Gerry and Mai Dulmage. Over the next five years as enrollments went up, two more elementary schools and a high school were built. At Mackenzie Elementary, or MAC 1 as it was fondly called, the student population went up and down with the town population. It increased in 2002 when Mountain View closed and amalgamated with MAC 1. MAC 1 was closed in 2010 and absorbed into Morfee Elementary. This was a controversial move as many felt that MAC I was more centrally located and had superior resources that included a stage, so should have remained as the sole elementary school. It was a sad time for former staff and students as they had many wonderful memories of Mackenzie Elementary School’s role in the life of the community. ENROLLMENT YEAR 1966 1967 1968 1970 1971 1973 1980 1990 2000 2001 2002 2010 GRADE # 1-7 21 1-7 38 1-10 1-10 61 1-7 89 K-7 135 K-7 147 K-7 178 K-7 186 K-7 182 K-7 95 K-7 87 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Staff 1967-1968 Courtesy of Wendy Fisher Mackenzie Elementary PRINCIPALS Chuck Baker Gerry Dulmage Richard Longman Bill Whalley Ray Giffin Paul Raines Tony Cable John McLay Keith Maurer Lori Dennill Janet Williams Anita Richardson VICE PRINCIPALS Ken Todd Ted Danyluk Homme Van Der Meer John McGladdery Lori Dennill Joanne Sheppard Keith Maurer Kim Tobin (zone) Faith Mackay ACTIVITIES Choir Chess Club Computer Club Student Leadership Family Dances Newspaper Club Juggling Christmas Concert SPORTS The school mascot is the Grey Timber Wolf. Soccer Volleyball Basketball Track & Field Indoor Relays Cross Country Mackenzie Elementary ABORIGINAL COMPONENT MAC 1 offered students many opportunities to experience aboriginal culture. Safety was stressed as the number one rule. The students were continually given lectures on knife handling and respectful behaviour and knew there were no second chances. Aboriginal theme books were read and an activity such as art, a meal, a culture craft or a game was played. Some of the students’ favorites were: The Inukshuk: At a slate rock quarry students chose rocks in order to build their own. Maple Moon: After reading the story we boiled maple syrup to a perfect consistency and poured it on snow to make toffee. The Caribou: We took students to Kennedy Siding meeting up with the elders. A biologist from Prince George gave us a talk on that particular herd and the dangers to them, the protection plan and their habits. We used tracking equipment and were often successful at seeing caribou. We began our school year with a visit to McLeod Lake Reserve for a day of berry picking with the elders. Picking berries was always a favourite of the students but eating the bannock made with the blueberries was more why they picked so many berries. Most often we gave the surplus berries to the elders to keep for the winter. An elder, Marjorie Alec, walked us through the process of tanning a deer hide. The students prepared the hide by fleshing it, soaking it (we tied it to a tree and let the creek current wash away the remaining flesh), stretching it on a stretching rack and drying it. When complete, we built rattles from our own tanned hide. Drum making was the event students would have signed up for two years in advance had they been able to; the drum making was a time when we spoke about spirituality in the aboriginal culture and taught students the significance of the drum and drumming. Every winter when the ice was thick enough, we took the students to Morfee Lake for a bannock and fish fry. It is funny how many kids don’t like fish until they try it and they are hungry after a day of ice fishing, games and fresh air. We collected pounds and pounds of fish and there was never any left. They cooked their own bannock over the fire. When given to us we would have smoked meat or dried fish, as well. Making bannock on a stick early 2000s Courtesy of Lori Dennill, principal Mackenzie Elementary Students and parents made aboriginal-themed Christmas decorations such as small drums, talking sticks, head dresses etc. We sold some of the ornaments as a fundraiser for the program. In the spring we took students to gather birch bark that they dried flat, peeled and completed their own art on it. We also gathered diamond willow sticks that they peeled and created their own walking sticks. We also made baskets from the birch bark under the direction of an elder from the Hazelton area. Stripping birch bark from birch trees was a challenge with 20 students all wanting to work the axe or the sharp knives used to get the job done. We had an elder from the Hazelton area come and do a potlatch in one of our classrooms that was learning about the Aboriginal culture. This was an amazing experience teaching students the importance of giving and receiving in the aboriginal culture. We worked with the McLeod Lake band to build raised beds. The students started plants at the school and then took them to the reserve and planted the raised beds alongside the elders who wished to have a bed. A couple of times between May and the end of the school year in June the students went out to weed and thin the seeds and plants with the elders. At the McLeod Lake Heritage site the students picked wild rice, wild celery, fiddlehead ferns and learned what is safe to eat and what isn’t. Nets were set across the river. Four elders went out in two canoes to bring in the net, which was full of fish. The students got to help clean the fish and then we went to the smoke house and helped hang the fish. A few days later the students got to sample the smoked fish when the elders came to the school and had lunch with us. Tours were given of all the buildings and the graveyard. Student learned the importance of respect to the culture and to the land as the day always opened and closed with thanks and prayer to the creator and the students served our elders. One of the most successful things we did was the aboriginal-themed Sports Day. Our activities included: putting up teepees where two teams went head to head erecting a teepee to see which team finished first; the greased pole Teepees early 2000s where students pulled a Courtesy of Lori Dennill, principal greased pole to get the other team across the line first; a bannock station; a tug of war; and a travois race. The students had to build a travois and then race it to the other end of the field with a small student sitting on the travois. The year before National Aboriginal Day 2006, we applied for grants to host a Community National Aboriginal Day Celebration. Our budget exceeded $14,000 and was very Mackenzie Elementary successful. We spent the year preparing that included making six 12’ teepees, inviting many guests and putting together activities for 600 people. We sewed dozens of capes for our invited elders who did storytelling in a teepee. Activities included fish painting, making bannock over an open fire, talking stick crafts and legends plus entertainment and lessons by the Alkali Lake Hula dancers. One year we applied for grants to visit the Hazelton area. We took 40 students, one elder and five adult supervisors to Gitanow Village for a long weekend. Our students got to really experience Aboriginal culture at its best by viewing fish ladders, having a cultural dance, seeing the Kitsan village, participating in storytelling, eating Indian ice cream, going on a totem pole tour, looking at Gitskan art, and fishing with spears at Moricetown. We prepared for our annual January trapping adventure for several weeks beforehand. Every lunch hour the students practised their snowshoeing to prepare for the 2-3 hour trek. Ahead of our visit, Mr. Verne Crossland, our presenter, would get a road-kill moose and haul it in many pieces to the trap line in order to entice game to the area. The night before our snowshoe trek, he would set several different traps. The morning of our adventure was always filled with excitement. Our 40 students would find 8-14 animals including otters, beavers, fox or coyotes in the traps. Verne always said the creator blessed the kids because that was always his biggest one-day catch. We would come back to a fire and lunch. In the afternoon he would have a skinning demonstration and display furs for them to view and touch. The Aboriginal Courtlink Program enabled our students to learn about the court system and to speak with people who had spent varying amounts of time in the system. The students came away with a new respect for our court system and hopefully realized that they did not want to be a part of that system. The Courtlink Program paid for our students to stay overnight in a hotel in Prince George so they could take part in the two-day program. Pat Cowan and Mary Anne Rice 2017, aboriginal education workers Did You Know? B .C. Forest Products and its subsidiaries set up Mackenzie as a company town, ensuring there was always a house earmarked for the principal. In the 1960s, when the new principal arrived, he was expected to purchase the “principal’s house”. When his contract expired he would then sell the house back to the company. This was financially advantageous to the administrators as it ended up being “cost-free” housing. P rincipal Baker (1966-1967) was a volunteer fire fighter since he was one of the only men in town during the day. The majority were working at the mills. He helped on the women’s brigade. I n July 1976, trustees granted permission for the basement of Mackenzie Elementary school to be used for a small-bore rifle range during school hours. Storage of firearms and ammunition were to be off-site. J anet Williams, principal at MAC 1, received national recognition in 2007 when she was presented with The Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence. Mackenzie Elementary Brittany Dugan, a grade 6 Mackenzie Elementary student was the big winner at the recent Heritage Fair held in Prince George. Her project on “Fort Misery” presented information on McLeod Lake. Brittany won the Explorer’s Award, the Prince George Regional Heritage Fair medal for outstanding achievement in communicating Canadian Heritage. Brittany also wins a trip to Saskatoon in July for a chance to compete in the National Historica Fair. June 7, 2009 Courtesy of The Mackenzie Times Memories The new school was very hot and there were many complaints. As winter descended in 1968, odd things happened. It seemed that half the bird population of Mackenzie roosted on the roof as it was the warmest place in town. Students’ wax crayons melted all over the desks and made a real mess. Concerns grew and, on one weekend, the principal Gerry Dulmage and teacher Dick Longman went into the school and found the door handles were too hot to touch with bare hands. Fortunately they were able to manually shut off the electric heat, section by section, before an electrical fire started. It was discovered that the wrong type of molded plastic had been used on the circuit breakers preventing the temperature settings from dropping down. Also, the building crew had somehow left spare copies of keys at the construction site. Local youth discovered these and put them to use. After school each day the custodian carefully locked everything up, but subsequent evening checks revealed that doors had suspiciously become unlocked. Finally, the principal, Gerry Dulmage, ordered a re-keying of the entire building. Mai Dulmage and Dick Longman 2017, former teachers In the 2009-2010 school year, just before the Morfee–MAC 1 amalgamation, a fire broke out in the kitchen. Apparently a box was left on the stovetop, which was still hot from being used. The fire alarm sounded and everyone headed outside thinking it was a drill. We stayed outside for a very long time as the fire crews and administration checked out the situation inside the school. The weather didn’t cooperate as sleet poured from the heavens, causing students to shiver and cry. Individual classes were bonding, literally, with students huddling to keep warm. Finally, we were allowed back into the smoky school, but only in one wing. One teacher took several primary classes into her room and pulled out her guitar. In no time at all, the stress level decreased as she had the students laughing and singing. Snack days were very important to many members of the MAC 1 staff. Each Thursday, staff members would take turns bringing in a snack to feed the entire staff. If you forgot to bring the snack on your appointed day, life was rough for you that day. I remember one particular teacher who forgot to bring his snack. He ended up fleeing the staffroom as one teacher chased after him with the intent to cause harm. Mackenzie Elementary Another time, a teacher brought in a delicious snack and once everyone was seated and quiet, he turned on a tape recorder that played sounds of pigs eating. One of the teachers on staff lived on a hobby farm just outside of Mackenzie. They would raise chickens and turkeys for consumption and rabbits just for fun. Every spring, close to Easter, an incubator would run in this teacher’s classroom with fertilized eggs from their “farm”. The students learned all about the life cycle of a chicken. By the 21st day, excitement would mount as the day of hatching drew near. On hatching day, the classroom would often hear loud peeping sounds from the incubator; sometimes the peeps sounded before the chicks actually hatched from the eggs! Once the hatch was complete, the class enjoyed “chick times” with the babies. Each child would hold a chick and make a memory! One year, BC Hydro scheduled a town-wide power outage, which landed in the middle of our incubation period. Our students wrote letters to BC Hydro to tell them to wait for another week before having the power outage. The appeal was respectfully denied. But hope was not lost. One of the mills volunteered their Protection Office personnel to watch over the half-incubated eggs during the power outage, since the mills were not affected by the outage. The eggs were transported to the mill in an egg carton wrapped in a blanket, since it was a cold night in March. The incubator was turned on in the office and the eggs were once again transferred to their warm home. Once the power was restored back in the town of Mackenzie, the eggs and the incubator were once again transported back to school. A week later, one miracle egg hatched and the students named the baby chick, “Lucky”. Spring was a special time for sharing chicken experiences with the classes but so was Thanksgiving. A turkey would come to school to spend the day in one of the empty classrooms or in the front foyer of the school. Throughout the day, each class would visit the turkey and ask the owner all sorts of interesting questions. Anytime the turkey was excited, a loud “gobble-gobble” could be heard all over the school! I often wondered how many students refused to eat turkey at Thanksgiving after having seen a live one. Tom Turkey visit early 2000s Courtesy of Lori Dennill, principal Santa’s fly-in early 2000s Courtesy of Lori Dennill, principal I also have fond memories of the inter-school Indoor Relay Meets at the arena, Santa arriving in a helicopter on the front field and dressing our new administrators in “boss” clothes. Theresa Weissenmayer 2017, teacher Mackenzie Elementary Marion Talbot raised fish from our local streams and rivers in her classroom. The BC Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program launched this educational experience when the making of the Williston Lake displaced many of the natural fish. Two biologists from this program came to the school every fall and delivered Kokanee fish eggs in the class fish tank and explained the life cycle of the Kokanee. Over the course of the school year, the students learned the survival needs of each stage of the Kokanee’s life cycle, while watching the eggs hatch and evolve into little fish. In June, the students took a trip to a local stream and released the fish back into the wild. The students ventured to Dina Creek to be scientists for a day. There were various stations headed up by local biologists and foresters. The students learned about water acidity, fish capture, animal habitats, and insect identification. The stations were situated beside Dina Creek and the students were able to watch rainbow trout spawning right beside them. One year, the biologists had difficulty getting Kokanee eggs for the classroom. So the two biologists, Arne and Randy, retrieved several types of small fish from our local streams and dropped them into the classroom tank. The students, with the biologists’ help, spent the school year identifying the different species in the tank. Mrs. Talbot did not really believe in the “survival of the fittest”, especially in her fish tank. One morning she arrived in the classroom to see a larger fish eating a smaller fish. She immediately grabbed a fish net and scooped up the murderous fish. She then “burped” the larger fish so it would “cough up” the smaller fish. Marion flushed the larger fish down the toilet and returned the smaller fish back into the tank. Marion Walker 2017, retired teacher MAC 1 has significance for me as I was in the first grade 12 class to graduate from Mackenzie. Prior to my family’s arrival in Mackenzie in 1971, grade 12 students attended school in Prince George. MAC 1 was the only school in town at that time. The pulp mill Creek, June 19, 2007 was still being built, families were arriving and they all had kids! Dina Courtesy of The Mackenzie Times MAC 1 operated on a ‘shift system’: elementary students in the morning and high school in the afternoon. I personally thought that was perfect. It allowed me to work my first job as a cashier at the Co-op some mornings and weekends. It also created time for me to volunteer in the elementary school. I’d known for a long time I wanted to teach. A very gracious Mrs. Barwise allowed me to help out and do some teaching in her classroom solidifying my career choice. Bill Whalley was the principal of the elementary school and Brian Cates was the secondary principal. There were 11 of us in the grade 12 class and both Academic and Business programs were available. There were maybe 4 or 5 grade 12 students placed in classes along with the grade 11’s but they were taught the grade 12 curriculum. We were a pretty good bunch but I’m sure a challenge for teachers with such small numbers! Mackenzie Elementary My first teaching job in March of 1978, took me back to MAC 1, where Bill Whalley hired me to teach Kindergarten. I continued to work at MAC 1 teaching grade 4/5 and Learning Assistance until December of 1983, just before the birth of our first child - the New Years baby of 1984. So in addition to being a student at MAC 1, and graduating there, returning to teach had significance for me. The teachers were young and keen, some using Mackenzie as a launching pad to get to Prince George, but others made Mackenzie their home. Nick and I were in Mackenzie until 1999 and have fabulous memories raising our kids, making life-long friends and doing activities in town. We now split our time between Kamloops and California, with lots of international travel in between. Retirement is GREAT! Sharon (Cork) Goshorn 2017, former teacher I started at MAC 1 as a grade 7 teacher. It had been a tradition at the school for the grade 7’s to go on a weekend trip to team-build in the fall. They would go to Camp McInnis. I only went once and it was fun but really cold! The very next year I worked hard to get it changed to a spring trip as a teambuilding exercise to prepare them for Grade 8. We went to Camp Sagitawa on Moberly Lake. It was an exhausting weekend but also lots of fun. Parents, teachers and kids came together to make memories. Later we moved the trip to during the week so everyone could recover before starting a new school week. I think I was the last teacher to run it but it had been going long before I entered the school. I think Tim Lofstrom or Steve Fleck started it. I also fondly remember Soak-a-Seven. Parents loved having a chance to dump a bucket of water on their kids and their close friends. I Soak-A-Seven early 2000s think later the fire department even helped out. Courtesy of Lori Dennill, principal Kirsten Zogas 2017, former teacher I moved to Mackenzie in 1980, well trained to teach Science and Math at the high school. Unfortunately for me, Ron Crosby and Rod Carr had the science positions at Mackenzie Secondary locked up and would be there for many years to come. I covered several medical/maternity leaves at Mackenzie Elementary that school year. The principal, Ray Giffin, offered me my choice of jobs at the end of the year. I chose to take grade 7, which was closest to high school and took a reading course over the summer so I could teach reading. I remained at the elementary level the rest of my career. June 1981, as in many years to follow, resulted in a mass exodus of teachers from Mackenzie thus the choice of jobs. One year, when I was principal at MAC 1, every primary teacher was new to the school. Scary times. Lori Dennill 2017, teacher and principal Mackenzie Elementary Moving to Mackenzie in 1985 with a young family, I was happy to find a part-time teaching position in the spring of 1986 working as vice-principal’s relief in the grade 7 class at Mackenzie Elementary. I was back at MAC 1 in 2002 when I moved over with Mountain View staff, as the two schools amalgamated. I was part-time classroom teacher and teacher-librarian until moving again in 2010, as MAC 1 amalgamated with Morfee Elementary. I loved the MAC 1 library with its large teaching space, wonderful office and a storage room. Some of my favourite times were all the wonderful costumes at Halloween, story time sessions with all classes, 100 Days celebrations with primary classes, and many other special events. My special literature events bring back wonderful memories of visiting authors (Eric Walters, Margriet Ruurs, Richard Thompson) and special author weeks, especially Dr. Seuss week. Wendy Fisher 2017, retired teacher Last staff 2010 Courtesy of Wendy Fisher, retired teacher Back Row (L to R) Murray Garland, Carla Kirkpatrick, Greg Schneider, Megan Sinclair Middle Row (L to R) Mary Ann Rice, Rhonda Empey, Theresa Weissenmayer, Shannon Pride, Shelley Proctor Front Row (L to R) Pat Cowan, Sue Crosby, Wendy Fisher, Anita Richardson, Leona Bugg, Karen Chadha McLeod Lake Elementary 1957-2003 Mission Statement McLeod Lake Elementary is dedicated to providing a positive environment that fosters the development of skills and desires for life long learning. McLeod Lake School 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Location McLeod Lake Elementary was located at the north end of McLeod Lake on Highway 97 North, 140 km north of Prince George and 42 km south of Mackenzie. History A two-room 2954 square foot building was built in 1957-1958. A teacherage was provided in 1961. Another two classrooms and a large multi-purpose room were added in 1976. The first principal teacher was A. F. Sutherland. Other early teachers were Miss J. Mittendorffer, Miss E. Warren, Mrs. K. Ferguson and John J. Peters. Eighty-five percent of the students were bussed to school each day from as far north as the Pine Pass and as far south as Windy Point. The other students came from across the highway, through a safety tunnel, from the McLeod Lake Indian Band. This was one of the first integrated schools in the district. The area was named after Archibald Norman McLeod of the North West Company. The McLeod Lake Indian Band is also known as the McLeod Lake Tse’khene First Nation. For the last six years of operation, the school was under dual principalship with Morfee Elementary in Mackenzie. When the school closed in 2003, the students were bussed to Morfee Elementary and the school property reverted to Crown land in 2007. McLeod Lake Elementary McLeod Lake Staff & Students 2002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Principals enrollment y ear 1957 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2002 gra de 1-8 1-8 1-7 1-6 K-5 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-5 # 43 20 80 55 49 44 40 45 55 28 17 William Smeaton Tina Campbell Harry Doten R obert Tamblyn G erry Sheanh Craig Brennan Keith Maurer Loreli Dennill John McLay* Keith Maurer* Norma Hart* *shared with Morfee Source: Public Schools A nnual R eport (s) Award Ceremonies 1990’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection McLeod Lake Elementary Cultural Activities The Elders of the McLeod Lake Band designed a cultural quilt for the school in 2001. The quilt represented the close working relationship the McLeod Lake Band had with the school district. Mask Making 1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Cultural Quilt 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Marion Hunt-Doig Teaching Dancing 1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection McLeod Lake Elementary Did You Know? I n 1996, School District No. 57 (Prince George) Board of Trustees entered into a Local Education Agreement with the McLeod Lake Indian Band. They agreed to provide educational programs for First Nations children resident within the school district which were appropriate to their cultural and linguistic heritage and a continuing source of satisfaction and pride for the Band and for the Board. The band paid tuition fees to the board. It was the joint intent of both parties to work diligently to assess the educational needs of First Nations students and their families and arrange the delivery of services that met those needs. They would also enhance and affirm a strong identity, pride in heritage and healthy esteem in First Nations students, promote active involvement of the Band in the school system and support the work of the Aboriginal Education Board. The agreement was renewed each year. Signing the Local Education Agreement 1998 Bev Christensen, Trustee Phil Redmond, Superintendent SD 57 Education Heritage Collection A s one of its obligations, the board agreed to cooperate and support the Band in the development and delivery of a Sekani Language Program in McLeod Lake Elementary School. In 1996, Theresa Alexis, Sam Chingee and Florence Prince, members of the McLeod Lake Band, compiled and published Tse’khe Zaghe’ Muk’eh Wujeh-i: McLeod Lake Sekani Bilingual Elementary Dictionary. It was an illustrated children’s dictionary with 500 word entries and sample sentences. The dictionary also had appendices listing classroom directions, colours and seasons. Parts of the dictionary were used by Florence Prince to teach after school language lessons in the mid 1990’s and many signs posted around the school indicated Tse’khene words for objects. Several booklets were published for use in the school. Sample appears at right. Meadow Elementary 687 Dornbierer Crescent, Prince George 1978-2003 M ea dow E lem ent a ry 198 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection “Achieving Our Personal Best” MISSION STATEMENT Meadow School will provide a positive learning environment, which challenges all students to achieve their personal best as life-long learners and responsible, caring citizens. Co m m e m o ra ti v e M e da l 1 979- 200 3 Courtesy of Betty Fishwick, retired teacher HISTORY Meadow Elementary was named after Moore’s Meadow having been built on the outer edge of the meadow in 1979. Moore’s Meadow was named after adventurer Charles W. Moore who arrived in the area via dog sled in 1906. The meadow was neglected for years after his death but in 1976 the community made it a nature park. When it opened, the school had nine classrooms, a half-sized gym, a library, learning assistance room and office area. A computer lab was developed later in one of the classrooms. Meadow Elementary Mea dow Ope Of fi nin cia g P O ct l SD 5 rog obe 7 Ed r am r 11 ucat ion H , 1 erita ge C 9 7 9 ollec tion P RINCIPA L S Me ado w St af f 1 988 Courtesy of Betty Fishwick, retired teacher Ed Bell To m Pi d c o c k Ri c h a r d Po t t e r R o b G ri ff i t h Ron Smith Lor r a i n e Bur n s Nevio Rossi In 1978, staff and students spent the year at Highglen, Heritage and Spruceland Elementary schools. In 1979, the school opened with 178 students in grades K-6 and in 1980 became a K-7 school with 233 students. The official opening was October 11, 1979 and Mrs. E. Kettle, Chair of the School Board, Mr. B. Strachan, M.L.A. for Prince George South, Mr. C. Daneliuk, Senior Superintendent of Public Instruction for the Ministry of Education, and Mr. A.R. Myhre, Superintendent of Schools were in attendance. The student population peaked at 250 in 1982 and hovered around 200 until 1995. It declined gradually and there were 166 students at the school when it closed in 2003. The students in this area now attend Heritage Elementary. Some of the first teachers at the school were Anne Rose, Margaret Hufty, Pat Northrup, Liz Bishoff, Pat Wilson, Carolyn Wetton and Louise Crosina. ENROLLMENT YEAR 1978 1981 1984 1987 1990 1993 1996 1999 2002 GRADES # K-6 178 K-7 241 K-7 220 K-7 209 K-7 199 K-7 193 K-7 184 K-7 183 K-7 166 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Meadow Elementary Did You Know? I N 1984-1985, UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF MOTHER AND VOLUNTEER SCHOOL HELPER, KAY AUSTEN, THE SCHOOL PRODUCED ITS FIRST YEARBOOK. IT CONTAINED EXAMPLES OF STU- DENT WORK FROM EACH GRADE, FROM “WHAT I WANT TO BE” BY THE KINDERGARTEN CLASS TO “PROUD TO BE A CANADIAN” ESSAYS BY THE GRADE 7 STUDENTS. IT ALSO CONTAINED HIGHLIGHTS OF THE SCHOOL YEAR, TEAM AND CLUB PHOTOS PLUS STUDENT MEMORIES. THIS FORMAT CONTINUED EACH YEAR UNDER VARIOUS EDITORS, EITHER A STAFF MEMBER OR PAR- ENT, AND OFTEN WITH THE HELP OF STUDENTS. THE FIRST EDITOR, KAY AUSTEN, JOINED THE MEADOW STAFF IN SEPTEMBER 1987 AS THE KINDERGARTEN TEACHER AND CONTINUED TO ASSIST WITH THE YEARBOOK FOR SEVERAL YEARS. G RADE TWO STUDENT JASON CHOW AND HIS BROTHER, GRADE FOUR STUDENT, HENRY CHOW, WON THE DIS- TRICT CHESS PLAYOFFS FOR THEIR GRADES IN 1986. B RIAN CHAPPELL’S GRADE 6/7 CLASS FUNDRAISED FOR MANY MONTHS FOR THEIR TRIP TO EXPO ’86. THEY HELD BOTTLE DRIVES, HOT DOG SALES, A CAKE WALK, AN AUCTION, A COOKBOOK SALE, A SLAVE DAY AND CHOCOLATE BAR SALES. THEIR TRIP INCLUDED THREE DAYS VISITING PAVILIONS AT EXPO, A TRIP TO VICTORIA AND TWO DAYS VISITING VANCOUVER SIGHTS SUCH AS U.B.C. AND THE AQUARIUM. T HE PARENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE BEGAN Yea rb ook C over 19 96- 1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection RAISING MONEY FOR NEW PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT. THEIR GOAL OF $15,000, WHICH INCLUDED ALMOST $5000 FROM BC LOTTERIES, WAS REACHED IN EARLY 1989 AND THE ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND WAS COMPLETED IN MAY 1989. THE PAC WAS VERY SUPPORTIVE OVER THE YEARS AND ALSO ORGANIZED A HOT LUNCH PROGRAM, SLEIGH RIDES, AN ANNUAL WINTER FUN NIGHT AND RAISED MONEY FOR TEAM SHIRTS, AN OUTDOOR BASKETBALL HOOP AND COMPUTERS. A TIME CAPSULE WAS PUT TOGETHER IN 1992 TO BE OPENED IN 2010. KNOWN. UNFORTUNATELY, ITS WHEREABOUTS IS UN- Wi nt er Fun N i ght Dec em ber 199 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Meadow Elementary Did You Know? A KIDS’ COUNCIL WAS FORMED IN 1989 WITH STUDENTS REPRESENTING EACH CLASS. THEY MET REGULARLY TO PLAN ACTIVITIES AND EACH YEAR HELPED TO PROVIDE LEADERSHIP AND BUILD SCHOOL SPIRIT. THEY ORGANIZED EVENTS SUCH AS DANCES AND TALENT SHOWS. THEY ALSO BEGAN SPONSORING A FOSTER CHILD FROM KENYA IN 1996. F OR MANY YEARS, BEGINNING IN 1994-1995, THERE WAS A “MEADOW ELEMENTARY EGG DROP”. STUDENTS BUILT A CONTAINER TO PROTECT A RAW EGG AND THESE WERE DROPPED FROM GREATER AND GREATER HEIGHTS UNTIL ONLY ONE EGG WAS LEFT UNBROKEN. P RINCIPAL LORRAINE BURNS BEGAN THE PEER HELPER PRO- GRAM IN 1994. STUDENTS VOLUNTEERED FOR A TWO-MONTH TRAINING PROGRAM TO LEARN HOW TO HELP OTHER STUDENTS WITH PROBLEM-SOLVING AND RESOLVING MINOR CONFLICTS. THIS PROGRAM CONTINUED FOR MANY YEARS. Egg Dr op 200 2 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I N APRIL 1997, MEADOW’S PARENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE FUNDED A TWO-WEEK THEATRE PROGRAM IN WHICH ALL GRADES PARTICIPATED. AFTER 7.5 HOURS OF INSTRUCTION BY DAVID BEAIRSTO, EACH CLASS PRESENTED A SHORT PLAY, BASED ON A CHILDREN’S FAIRY TALE, TO PARENTS, TEACHERS AND THE OTHER STUDENTS. PRINCESSES, FAIRIES, KNIGHTS AND GHOULS WERE JUST A FEW OF THE CHARACTERS INTO WHICH THE STUDENTS TRANSFORMED THEMSELVES. Gra de 6 Students Rehear sing Courtesy of Prince George This Week B EGINNING IN DECEMBER 1999, SANTA CLAUS ARRIVED BY HELICOPTER EACH YEAR AND LANDED IN THE MEADOW WHERE THE ENTIRE SCHOOL WAS OUTSIDE TO WELCOME HIM. Sant a Leav ing b y Hel icopt er 200 2 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection F OR SEVERAL YEARS, BEGINNING IN THE LATE Meadow Elementary 1990’S, ALISON MCNEIL WAS HIRED TO SPEND TIME WITH EACH CLASS OVER A TWOWEEK PERIOD TO CREATE DANCE ROUTINES. THESE WERE THEN PERFORMED FOR PARENTS, INVITED GUESTS AND OTHER STUDENTS AT A “SCHOOL DANCE EXTRAVAGANZA” ON A FRIDAY AFTERNOON. Da nce Ext ra va ga nza 200 2 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection S P O RTS In spite of the school’s half-size gymnasium, students participated very successfully in a variety of sports throughout the years. These included volleyball, basketball, floor hockey and the indoor relays at the Coliseum. Students were also very successful at outdoor events such as the district relays at Massey Stadium, cross-country running, soccer, rugby and track and field. Meadow hosted an annual cross-country meet, called the Meadow Maze, which went through the adjoining meadow, once with a bear in attendance. M e ad o w M u s ta n g s Ho o di e 19 90’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Vol le yb al l Pl a ye r 20 01 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Me ado w M aze 1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Dis t ric t Out door R ela y s & R es ult s 199 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Meadow Elementary THE LAST CLASSES TO ATTEND MEADOW Staff & Students 200 3 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection When Meadow was closed in June 2003, the staff included Betty Fishwick, Mona Tyndall, Diane Guthrie, Joan McNeil, Tom Crow, Peggie Rusnell, Linda Martin, Vivian Olsen, Tina Cousins, Carolyn Kelly, Darcy Kinder, Shavinder Bhullar, Cheryl Richards and Debbie Flesher. The school secretary was Jacii Maier and the principal was Nevio Rossi. C ake s M ad e for Schoo l C lo sing 200 3 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Millar Addition Elementary 1752 Fir Street, Prince George 1956-1986 History The Millar Addition subdivision was developed in 1914 and named after Charles Vance Millar, president of the B.C. Express Company, which had the contract in the 1910’s for steamships and wagon teams to deliver mail and freight to the area. Millar Addition School was built as a two-room school for primary children who lived east of Queensway Avenue so they wouldn’t have to cross the busy thoroughfare. The building was 55’ x 103’ with a concrete foundation and a wood constructed frame and roof. In the fall of 1959 a two-room extension was added and for its duration the school remained with four classrooms. The school district had wanted to expand the school grounds by adding some of the parkland from Fort George Park (now Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park) but was unsuccessful. It operated independently as a primary school until the mid 1970’s when it became an annex of Connaught (later named Ron Brent) Elementary. The last two teachers at the school were Marj Urquhart and Glenys Vincenzi. After the school closed in 1986, the students were sent to Ron Brent Elementary. The building was bought by the French Canadian Association and became the “Le Cercle Des Canadiens Français” centre. Millar Addition school Courtesy of Tiiu Noukas, retired teacher Millar Addition Elementary Miss Elsie Fedoruk’s Grade 1 class 1956-57 The Exploration Place P2004.2.651 Mrs. Fran Down’s Kindergarten class 1975-76 SD57 Education Heritage Collection Millar Addition Elementary ENROLLMENT YEAR 1956 1961 1966 1971 1976 1981 1981 GRADE # 1-2 65 1-4 141 1-3 134 1-4 114 K-4 69 K-3 51 K-3 40 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) EARLY STAFF Miss Frances Buxton Miss Elsie Fedoruk Mrs. Fran Down Mrs. Sunny Seeds Mrs. G. Rhodes Mrs. Marion (Jones) Reid Miss Esther Soroka Miss Glenys Benson September 1, 1959 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen PRINCIPALS Mrs. Mary Engstrom Lyle Fleming Rob Griffiths Did You Know? T here was an earlier school named Millar Addition. It opened in 1916 on Queensway at 15th Avenue. Starting out as a two-room elementary, it was modified to a high school from 1918 to 1925. Later it became the first Connaught school. C harles V. Millar died in 1926 and his will stipulated that a half million dollars would go to any Toronto woman who would give birth to the most children in the ten years following his demise. Four women qualified in a tie and shared the money, a huge amount in those depression years. Unfortunately lawyers’ fees from court battles consumed some of the legacy. I n 1962 the Millar Addition students collected and sent Christmas gifts for all of the students at Lejac Residential School at Fraser Lake, B.C. Millar Addition Elementary THE STUDENTS AT MILLAR ADDITION WERE PUBLIC SPIRITED. Treats for the Children’s Ward 1975 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Grade 1’s make Christmas gifts from plaster 1971 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Letters to the Editor Concerned I could not help but to be concerned about the school board’s recent request for a part of Fort George Park in which to expand the Millar Addition school. Hopefully, the request will be refused. The end result of selling parkland to an automobile dealer or the school board is the same – parkland is no longer available to the public. The park is a very popular place as anyone who has visited it in the evenings or weekends would know. As the city grows, more and more people will want to use the park. Any “relatively undeveloped” corners should be held for park expansion – not sold to the school board. – G. Hudson, Prince George May 25, 1971 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Students collect $25 for the Kettle Campaign 1976 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Millar Addition Elementary Valentine Party 1975 Maypole dancing 1977 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Kindergarten students exchange gifts 1975 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Memories Easter Parade 1978 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen A group of us who were schoolgirls at Millar Addition School in the early 1960’s have remained friends. We have annual fun getaways, including special ones to Las Vegas and Hawaii. We self-published a photo book of our mutual histories complete with Millar Addition class photos. Our Christmas lunches extend to pals who went to Sacred Heart and Connaught Schools. Liz (Konig) Moffat 2014, former student Millar Addition Elementary I started at Millar Addition as a teacher-intern in 1970. We had no gym, no library and no staff washrooms. Every Friday during the winter season we’d walk the entire school population down to the Coliseum for ice skating. Once a month a box of 30 books was delivered to my classroom from the District Resource Centre. The students happily read them over and over again for silent reading, story time or leisure. Also, it was so nice to have the park next door for activities. Barbara Ellison 2004, retired teacher Because the area we drew from was small it was easy for parents to come by for a chat. Parents were happy to help out. In good weather we would walk down to the wetlands at the Hudson Bay slough for nature walks. We were also able to visit the (Sowpal) farm off Queensway, below Cuddie Crescent. If we had an empty classroom, then we could use it for P.E. activities. Fran Down 2015, former parent and retired teacher An odd coincidence was in 1977, when three of us received our teaching assignments at Millar Addition School. Not only did we join the staff at the same time, but Liz Scott, Glenys Vincenzi and I, all were born in the same year. Sally (MacDonald) Hough 2016, retired teacher Christmas concerts in my time were a delight. Lou, the custodian, would set up an outside stage, with lights and chairs, for our annual concert. Inevitably those occasions occurred when minus 30˚C temperatures, or worse, prevailed. At any rate, the students and parents all took it in great stride and enjoyed the never-lengthy performances. Afterwards, inside the school, Santa Claus would visit while the delighted students and guests enjoyed hot chocolate and treats. Sharon Ramsay 2015, former parent and retired teacher Susan Stephen 2016, former parent A very sad tragedy occurred to one of our principals. All of Mary Engstrom’s three teenage children were killed in a plane crash returning from Expo ’74 in Spokane. Her eldest, Victor, was piloting the Piper Apache when it went down near Spences Bridge, BC. Afterwards one would find her gazing out the window at a schoolyard tree previously planted by one of her sons. One day our custodian, Louis, asked if I would dye his hair, after the students had left but before his shift began. I agreed and we accomplished the task. To my horror and his delight, the expected brunette result was instead purple! Betty McCann 2016, retired teacher I loved the neighbourhood and the support of the community, a number of whom were executives in the forest industry. Unfortunately because we were downwind of the pulp mills, some winter mornings in the school were particularly fragrant. Grace (Reimer) Anderson 2015, retired teacher Mountain View Elementary LOCATION 1929-1947 Mountain View School was located on Mountainview Road, which leaves Highway 16 across the Fraser River Bridge 1 km east of McBride and heads northwest along the Fraser. The school was located about 10 km along that road. M ountain V iew Sc hool 1960 ’s Courtesy of Sheilagh (Monroe) Foster, retired teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection When Ethel Monroe arrived as an early settler in 1914, she exclaimed to family and friends that she loved her “mountain view” home. HISTORY School was held in the George Monroe home in the 1929-1930 school year with Bert Leboe as the first teacher. The first grade 1–8 one-room school was built by the community on the Bayes family property in the fall of 1930. In 1932, after heated discussions and near fist fights at ratepayers meetings, the school was relocated further south nearer to the more settled portion of the district. The school closed from 1942-1943 when they were unable to find a teacher. It reopened in 1945 and finally closed again in April 1947. The students were taken to McBride by a taxi owned by Buster and Leo Balcaen for the remainder of the year. In the 1948-1949 year, the Mountain View children did correspondence courses and, in the fall of 1949, a permanent bus route was organized by the McBride school district. E A R LY STAFF Be rt Lebo e Mi ss Mur ie l M. Bowe s Mi ss Je ssie Lam ber t R. E. Kempru d Dav e H. Tu lly J. F. Stetch Mi ss Ire ne P ric e Do ro thy (Aps ey ) Monro e Mrs. Sad ie M a rsh Mrs. Iren e Ta ylor Mis s Jean Gray Mr. Wil lia ms Mountain View Elementary Memories The community welcomed us because we had four school age children by then, which made sufficient children to warrant the building of a school. This became known as the Mountain View School, which my father had a major part in naming. Our first teacher was Bert Leboe, nineteen years of age and his first school. Later he became interested in politics. Another teacher was Muriel Bowes, who many years later became Mrs. Lambert. I had a great respect for Miss Bowes, as she taught us to respect the Bible and it was due to her patience that I learned to crochet and knit. Another teacher who left a lasting impression was Miss Jessie Lambert who married a local man, Campbell Toye, and who later purchased our property. The school was heated by an upright heater for which my father cut wood in exchange for our schoolbooks. Hot chocolate or soup was supplied to supplement the sandwiches we brought from home. School was a happy time for me and in five years I finished eight grades. It was necessary to take high school by correspondence under the supervision of the teacher as they needed my presence to keep the school open. Marion Restall, former student. The Robson Valley Story, 1979. I came to teach at Mountain View in the fall of 1934 and left in 1936. Mr. Payne drove me out there from town in his horse and buggy. I had to find a place to stay and I arrived at Mrs. Monroe’s and she agreed to look after me for the time I was there. We used to walk from Mountain View into McBride. It was more comfortable walking than riding at the time. Mr. Payne had a car, and he would come out in it the odd time in summer, but most times it was the horses or the Bennett buggy or the sleigh in the winter time. I remember going home in the Bennett Buggy one night at midnight, and it was that light that I was reading the paper. I remember one winter in the school when the total supplies were a packet of foolscap and a pint bottle of blue ink. The ink was kept in a cupboard and in the winter it froze. The bottom of the bottle cracked off and the ink didn’t drip for three months. That’s how warm the school got when the children were there. When the weather warmed up, I put a pan under the bottle and saved the ink. Mountain View Elementary I think I was paid $750.00 a year. That was the minimum pay at the time. Some of the pupils I had there were Kathleen, Mildred, Lorne and Alvin Bayes, Pearl and Geraldine Monroe. We just had enough to keep going, and that was all. In the springtime, each child brought a tin lid and put it under the seat and put a little dribble of pyrethrum powder there, and so we all sat with the smoke coming up between our legs to keep the mosquitoes from eating us up. Someone supplied the wood for the school, but I had to look after the fire and sweep the place. At night, after the children had gone home, and the fire had gone out, I used to set it ready for the morning so that I could just put a match to it, it was so beastly cold in the school! Once the children got in we used to close the door and pull all the desks up around the 45 gallon drum that was the stove to keep warm. The children quite often wrote with a pencil in the wintertime, and with mitts on, it was that cold. There was only single sheathing on the school and it never did get warm. There was a coal oil lamp for light. For fun the children played tag in the summer, and of course in the winter they had toboggans and sleighs. I showed them how to belly flop on the sleigh and I pretty near hung myself the first time I tried it. I said, “This is how you belly flop. You take the sleigh and hold it in front of you, and you take a run down the hill, and then you flop on to it with your belly.” Unfortunately, I had a tie on, and the tie went under the runner and I stood on my head. The children thought it was quite hilarious! David H. Tully, retired teacher. The Robson Valley Story, 1979. The Squirrel Chatter School Newspaper Jack (John George) Marsh in grade 6 and David Alton Marsh in grade 3 were the editors and printers of The Squirrel Chatter, a Mountain View school newspaper pubSquir rel C hatter c ove r lished in 1943, 1944 and 1945. David is still a resident of I ssu e 5, Sept em ber 194 4 the community. Other students at Mountain View in those Courtesy of Sheilagh (Monroe) Foster, retired teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection years that may have contributed were: Edgar Horricks, Ruth Bryant, Beatrice, Dorothy and Jackie Gordon. Mountain View Elementary The paper was originally produced in pen and ink and 25 copies were printed on a mimeographed machine, circulated in the neighbourhood and sent to interested friends and relatives living elsewhere. When David was asked why some of the issues seemed to be written and printed during the summer months, when school is traditionally not in session, he responded: “My mother and my grandmother were big pushes behind The Squirrel Chatter. They were educators who didn’t care about the standard length of the school year. We sometimes did it all year round.” Sq u i rr e l Ch a t te r e di t o r i al Spr ing 194 4 Courtesy of Sheilagh (Monroe) Foster, retired teacher Sq ui rr el Chat t er ad vert i s eme nt J une 1 944 Courtesy of Sheilagh (Monroe) Foster, retired teacher Mountain View Elementary 10 Ingenika Street, Mackenzie 1972-2002 “Climbing to the Top” Mission Statement Mountain View School Community is dedicated to nurturing life-long learning and citizenship through high expectations, quality instruction, and teamwork. Mountain View Elementary early 1980s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History Mountain View Elementary School was an experiment made up of connected trailers built on the demountable principle so that they could be moved. If the population shifted, the school pieces could be loaded up and moved to a new location. The school was located on the east side of Mackenzie in the middle of a residential area with pathway access from several streets. This offered students short cuts across the school grounds. Mountain View was not ready for the beginning of the school year and the staff and students moved in near the end of October. Three schools had been operating out of Mackenzie Elementary – Mac 1, Mountain View and the high school that wasn’t built yet. Before the move, the two elementary schools operated as one school with Bill Whalley as principal and Owen Corcoran as the vice-principal. These students attended school from 8:30 am until 1:30 pm with students from both elementary schools mixed together. The high school students attended in the afternoon. Sharing the classrooms was not an ideal situation, as the elementary students would sometimes find that pages had been cut out of their books or glued together. In the summer of 1974, SD 57 staff placed sod at Mountain View on the main play areas and seeded the approaches to the playing field. An underground irrigation system was installed at the same time. The sod was laid by high school students under the Provincial Career Assistance Venture. They were paid and the out-of-town students were also supplied room and board. A gymnasium was added in 1976. Mountain View Elementary When the school closed in June 2002, the students attended Mackenzie Elementary. The school’s first principal, Owen Corcoran, and the longest acting principal, Frances Roch were invited up to the school closing ceremony. When MAC 1 was closed in 2010, all the students were sent to Morfee Elementary. The building was put up for sale but it did not sell. In 2007, the school and playground were demolished as the school district had deemed them a liability. Mr. Goshorn’s grade 5 class 1981-1982 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection EARLY STAFF Bruce Gladwin Gervin Halliday Marilyn Hemsley Judy Ireland Jutta Lamothe Sandy Lougheed Darlene Ludvigson Linda Mandoli Anita Mayor Bonnie Murray Cindy Swan Art Webb Staff 1973-1974 Courtesy of Owen Corcoran ENROLLMENT YEAR 1972 1973 1982 1988 1991 1996 2001 GRADE # 1-7 256 K-7 331 K-7 250 K-7 209 K-7 264 K-7 214 K-7 208 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Mountain View Elementary PRINCIPALS Owen Corcoran Rob Griffiths Paul Raines Lynn Boomhower Tony Cable Frances Roch Lori Dennill Phyllis Lightfoot Adventure playground 1999 Did you Know? SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I F n 1973, the school was very full and a grade 7 teacher had to put his desk in the hall so there was still room to move around the classroom. rom September 1991 to June 1993, the school’s fundraising went towards building a new adventure playground. The original playground had been installed in 1977. The Parent Advisory Committee held many fundraising events such as family dances and family bingo nights. The Mackenzie community actively helped with both money donations and many material donations. Parent volunteers and others from the community helped build the playground. Materials and labour were provided by B.C. Forest Products, Trico Industries, the District of Mackenzie and the Kinsmen Club of Mackenzie. The new playground was completed on May 8, 1993. I M n 1995, there was a Leadership Retreat at Camp McInnis with students and teachers from Mac 1, Morfee, Mountain View and McLeod Lake schools. ountain View’s 1996 accreditation received the comment: “The External Team… would like to highlight the following strengths: Students are provided with a variety of quality teaching and learning situations, students demonstrate a high success rate in their courses of study, the staff lives the mission statement.” E R I ach year Santa Claus arrived by helicopter while the students lined the field to watch. enowned artist Andrew Kiss came to the school to demonstrate landscape oil painting. He also donated two of his paintings to the school. n the May 14, 1975 Prince George Citizen, there was a report on the complaints about a drainage problem on the field that, at times, made it very difficult for the students to access the doors into the school. One of the pathways to the school meant walking across the field. This problem was solved when the gymnasium addition was built onto the school on this portion of the field. Mountain View Elementary ACTIVITIES Through the years, many activities took place at Mountain View. They changed depending on a teacher or parent’s specific area of interest and expertise. There were often schoolwide themes such as Math Blitz, Gauss Math Challenge, Heritage Day, a Home Reading Program and the Student Leadership group. Math Circus 1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Choir with Miss Addison 1986 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The Yearbook Club took photos and wrote stories. The grade 6 and 7 students did fundraising to produce the book. The grade 7 students were in charge of selling advertising to the community. Stories and poetry were usually included from several classes. The yearbook also included team photos. Other activities have included Choir, Computer Club, Chess Club, Photography Club, Skipping Club, Library Assistants’ Club, Primary Reading Club and Office Helpers. Library Club 1985 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Easter Bonnet Parade 1982 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Special event days have included Circus Day, Easter Bonnet Parade, Sneaker Day and Baseball Cap Day. Mountain View Elementary Timmy Telethon January 1982 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Jump Rope for Heart 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Mountain View also held fundraising events such as Fun Nights, the Timmy Telethon, Mothers’ March and Jump Rope for Heart, an event where students learn more about health while raising funds for heart and stroke research and health promotion programs. In 2001, this event raised $3600 for the Heart and Stroke Foundation. The school also held regular Terry Fox events in September. One year, each student wrote a personal message, a wish or their name on a footprint which was then displayed in the hallways to represent a mini Marathon of Hope. Yoga on Recreation Day 1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Recreation Day indoor activities included ceramics, cooking, puppets, yoga, board games, cross-stitch, line dancing and beading. Outdoor activities included snow sculpturing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Snowshoeing on Recreation Day 1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Mountain View Elementary SPORTS The school teams were named the Mountain View Mountain Lions. Fabric Team Banner 2002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Team shirt 1990 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Mountain View had winter and summer sports days. Children worked together and learned to be good leaders and demonstrate good sportsmanship towards others. These were all fun activities, such as snowshoeing in the winter. School teams played soccer, volleyball, handball, floor hockey and basketball. They took part in cross-country races, track and field meets and both indoor and outdoor relays. Girls’ Floor Hockey Team Mrs. Flynn, coach Boys’ Floor Hockey Team Mr. Bentley, coach SD 57 Education Heritage Collection SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Mackenzie hosted an Invitational Basketball Tournament attended by other teams in the District. The school also held house games and inter-school sports events. Mountain View Elementary SPECIAL EVENTS Mackenzie held a Speech Arts Festival each year and Mountain View students participated. A First Nations guest speaker, Mrs. Hunt-Doig brought a mask, a button blanket and a cape to show students. Christmas concert 1980 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Mrs. Hunt-Doig 1996 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The school held Christmas Concerts and Air Band performances. One year the operetta “Cinderella” was presented and another year Ms. vanMaaren’s grade 2/3 class performed the “Paper Bag Princess” that was the culminating event to their author study of Robert Munch. Even the principal dressed up for Halloween! Mr. Raines as a clown 1985 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Field Trip to Fort St. James 1986 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Over the years there were field trips to Fort St. James and Forestry Day out at McLeod Lake School. Students were also taken to Prince George for the Children’s Festival in Fort George Park (now Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park), to visit The Exploration Place as well as the CN Station and railyard. Mountain View Elementary Memories As principal of Mountain View elementary, I appreciated the support of the community. Parents helped in the classrooms, assisted with special events and let us know how we were doing by calling or attending Parent Advisory meetings. The staff, over and above marking and preparing lessons, dedicated time to improve the school climate by sponsoring clubs and programs. There were activities to challenge the intellect like the computer and chess clubs, activities to develop the body like lunch hour and school sports, and activities to provide service like the school newspaper, library and office helpers clubs. I enjoyed my years at the school. Paul Raines 2017, retired principal I was the principal at Mountain View for a number of years. It always amazed me how much happened each year - Open Houses, Christmas musicals like “Computerized Christmas” in 1995, Science Fairs, sports events like the Indoor Relays and Track Meets and so much more. I was always delighted to meet the new “kinders” but was sad to say goodbye to the grade 7 students each year. I enjoyed the enthusiasm and spirit of the students and their love o learning. That was what made the job worthwhile. Frances Roch 2017, retired principal Mountain View staff 2000-2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Mud R iver Elementary 1919-1965 Location Mud River School was located off Highway 16 West a short distance past Beaverly on the Upper Mud River Road near the Chilako (Mud) River. This was approximately 50 km southwest of Prince George. Mud River School 1920’s Courtesy of Joan Banzer SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen June 29, 1933 School may have been held in Andy Miller’s log home for a short time around 1916. The first government school was established in January 1920 with Mrs. K. Rocklyeft as the teacher and 17 children attending. It was built and owned by the local Farmers’ Institute. Farming families such as the Hillers, Millers and Malgunas’s were some of the early pioneers in the community. There were years in the late 1930’s and early 1940’s when enrollment was not high enough to warrant the hiring of a teacher by the Ministry of Education. The school was probably closed during these years. Mud River School was finally closed in 1965 and 15 students were bussed to Vanway Elementary. The Prince George School Board sold the 2.74 acre site to Jaymar Holdings in the early 1970’s. Mud River Elementary enrollment y ear 1919 1945 1950 1952 1954 1957 1959 1960 1962 1964 gra de # 1-7 17 1-7 7 1-6 7 1-8 13 1-8 13 1-8 17 1-7 12 1-8 15 1-7 9 1-7 15 Source: Public Schools A nnual R eport (s) Birthday Party at Mud River School 1923 Exploration Place P986.45.28 EArly Staff Mrs. K. R ocklyeft Miss Jean V. McLarty Miss Mary Carolina Williams Miss Bessie Miller Miss Marion V. Sleightholm Mrs. Minnie A . Egerton Vernon Smith Miss Vermona L. Farber Miss Edna Carter Miss M. A . R eid Miss C. M. M. G ilmore Kathleen (Jefferd) G ildner Miss I. M. Pringle Marjorie (G iles) Hiller Miss Jennie M. R ichards Mary Williams, teacher 1923 Exploration Place P986.45.33 Jean McLarty, teacher 1921 Exploration Place P986.4.74 Memories Mud River Elementary The 1944 Mud River Christmas Concert In the Mud River School House, the gloomy and damp smelling cloakroom was already filled to overflowing. Winter coats crowded the short row of hooks, all sort of colourful mittens and various scarf lengths dangled from pockets. The schoolroom was jam-packed with people. Women holding babies were crammed into desk seats. Small children elbowed for space on the desktops and nearby on the floor. Little girls were wearing party dresses. Men leaned against the back wall or sat on the low green bench under the window. The latecomers slipped quietly into the room and found spaces to sit. On the other side of the schoolroom, across from the windows, stood the pine tree Frank’s father had cut last week on his farm, now decorated with imaginative ornaments. There were red paper chains and strings of popcorn…Miss Smith, the teacher, noticed that sometimes more popcorn made its way into tiny tummies than onto the long strands intended for the tree. Other kids measured and then cut many sheets of red construction paper into narrow strips, by first using pencils and rulers, then after carefully cutting them apart, finally gluing each small paper strip into a ring. They attached the rings together one by one, creating long interlocking, red, festive chains. The adults as well as the school children anticipated the 1944 Mud River community event. Everyone was filled with the Christmas spirit and arrived at the school wearing their very best outfit and shoes polished to a spit shine. Being a farming district, the winter months left many of them isolated for long weeks on end. This was the winter social event in the area. Elizabeth (Kienzle) Sinclair. Life Before the Pulp Mills. Prince George Council of Seniors, 2010. Advertisement for School Meeting Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen November 14, 1964 Mud River Elementary Memories My memories of the school in the 1950’s are many, but top of the list are Christmas concerts. They were an annual community event and planning started in November. Out in the utility shed were the makings of the stage, which we erected at the front of the room at least a month before the big day. From what I recall, the platform itself was 2 X 8’s, raised a foot or so above the ground. There was a wire strung high up across the room all year long and we used safety pins to attach sheets for the stage curtains. We would start practicing the plays, recitations, carols and other songs in November and, by show time, every student knew every line of every play or recitation. Wooden benches were brought in from the shed for the event and everyone from the community came to the show. Bachelors, families who had no kids, everyone came to the concert. And, of course, Santa. The Farmers’ Institute provided a gift, a bag of candy, and a Japanese orange for each child in attendance. I still have some of those gifts! School sports days were rotated with Telachick, Isle Pierre and West Lake schools. In addition to amazing potluck provisions, there was always dry ice with, that wonders of wonders, ice cream! I think the most important teacher in Mud River was Mrs. Marjorie Hiller. I don’t know how many years she taught there, but she was there for most of my years, from grades 4 to grade 8. She lived in Beaverly and drove to the school each day. Do you remember the Rockwell covers of the Saturday Evening Post? She would distribute a different cover to each student, starting with the little grade 1’s near the windows. We had to tell a story based on those covers. The first student would say, “One day, a girl was babysitting and the baby was crying a lot.” The next cover might be a boy going fishing, so the second student would have to link his/her cover to the story from the first cover, and so on. It was a great exercise in storytelling, thinking on your feet, and expressing yourself orally. I recall that the most frequent admonition was to avoid using “and” to start or join every idea. Interestingly, in my practice as a tutor to students with learning disabilities, I often have used Rockwell pictures as starting points for creative writing. Carol (Flatt) Johnson 2013, former student Mud River Class 1963 Mr. Waller, teacher Courtesy of Carol (Flatt) Johnson, former student Ness Lake Elementary 1935-1942 LOCATION The school was situated 30 km northwest of Prince George via Chief Lake Road, along Ness Lake Road, about 1.5 km west of the Reid Lake turnoff. Nes s La ke S chool l at e 1 930’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY The one-room log schoolhouse was built on Charles Cook’s land by members of the Ness Lake community and opened on January 8, 1936. The Ministry furnished the lumber, the doors, windows and the school furniture, as well as the teacher’s basic salary. The first teacher was Miss Carrie J. Whyte from Victoria. Other teachers were Miss Margaret Sherk, Fred W. Flick and Albert H. Manifold. From 1937 to 1941, there were eight to ten students attending the school. The last teacher, Miss Hilda Olson, closed the school in June 1942. The students were sent to Chief Lake School. In January 1952, the school district tendered the removal of the school from the site. The building was purchased for $200 and moved to Ross Rigler’s farm. The logs were used to build a barn which is still being used for storage. N e ss L ake Sch o o l l a te 1930 ’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ness Lake Elementary Memories The teacher is very nice. They showed her the available lodging places and she decided to live with us. I moved our bed upstairs and put a bed couch and heater in our downstairs bedroom. It is very comfortable. I sent for some cheap paint and made curtains for the closet door and washstand, and covered a stool. It is old blue with yellow so it is clean and comfortable and I also made a braided rug with quite a bit of blue and yellow in it. It has been a big help to have a teacher’s board money. Teachers around here pay $20.00 a month so that is all I asked her, but after the first month she insisted on paying $25.00. I told her I had agreed to take her for $20.00 and I didn’t feel like taking more but she said that made no difference. She is Scotch too. People don’t usually insist on paying more board than they have to. Saturday morning I walked three miles for milk for our breakfast and Miss Whyte’s, and then to the school and Mrs. Chamberlain and I scrubbed the school floor. You see we have no janitor and the larger boys each have one day to build the fire and sweep after school. We women have to take turns scrubbing the floor. Emerson is busy tonight making valentines. The teacher plans to have a valentine party at school. Emerson is getting quite a “kick” out of school, as he has never been, so has missed all these things. I’m going to make a cake and frost it, also heart shaped cookies and stick them together with frosting. The teacher made cute little red and white baskets for candy and plans to make candy tomorrow night. They will have hot cocoa so probably will have quite a Nel l i e R . Ca mpb el l nice time. There are only ten children. Miss Whyte has bought jack 19 30’s knives for the boys and balls for the little girls instead of valentines but they have a valentine box. Emerson took his lunch to school, also the shovel, as some of the boys planned to bank up the school at recess and noontime. They take turns building the fire and carrying water. Tuesday is Emerson’s day to be janitor so he has to stay after school to sweep. The government pays the teacher but the people have to put up the building and tend to the chores free, as there is no money for such. We have a new teacher this year. Miss Whyte came back on a Friday and the school opened the following Tuesday. She taught one day and after school the Inspector called and wanted her to take another school the other side of Prince George. Nellie R. Campbell. Lovingly Yours Nellie: letters home and other stories, 2002. Newlands Elementary 1923-1958 LOCATION The school was located 42 km east of Prince George, on the east end of Eaglet Lake, 11 km from Giscome. It was a station on the CN railway. HISTORY Newl and s E lem ent ar y 198 0’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection There were two schools in this area, Newlands North and Newlands. Newlands North was opened on March 15, 1929 and closed in 1934. This school was 11 km northwest of the Newlands community. It was a one-room log building with a corrugated iron roof. The first teacher at this school was Miss G. MacSween. Newlands School opened on April 30, 1923 with 13 students and Mr. W. T. Dougan as the teacher. It was built on land given to the community by Mr. and Mrs. Moore and was located down the track, west of the railway station. Mr. Harry Conlon was the head carpenter and Mr. Carl Anderson built the chimney. This building was a 26’ x 36’ frame construction. A teacherage of the same size was also built. Among the first pupils were: Mary Conlon, Rupert Conlon, Mona Peterson, Thelma Peterson, Dora Hayward, Wesley Hayward, Clifford Howatt, Pearl Simonds, Gordon Wisdom, Margaret Wisdom and Ruby Wisdom. WANTED Teacher for Newlands District School. Salary $1140 per annum. Apply stating age and qualifications to Walter Richardson, Secretary Newlands Station, B.C. September 10, 1925 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Newlands Elementary E A R LY S TA F F ENR O L L M E N T YEAR 1945 1946 1947 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 GRADE # 1-8 27 1-7 16 1-8 20 1-8 14 1-9 15 1-8 14 1-8 18 2-8 11 1-7 17 1-8 14 1-8 14 1-8 13 1-8 18 NEWLANDS W. T. Doug an Mis s Ma dg e A. Bla ckman Mr. Do na l d C. McDev itt Mis s Ma rg ar et L. Will iam s Mr. Grae me O’N ei ll Mis s Do ri s O’Nei ll Mi ss Al ex in a M. Rae Mis s E. Mar io n Gre gor y Mis s Ma rj or i e A. Cla rk Mi ss Ro b e rta McLeo d Mi ss Hil d a E. Olso n Mi ss Ed i th E. Dri ve r Mr. Joh n L . Sa nde rs We sl ey D. Bla ck E. M. Cau l ey Mi ss V. Gea r Mis s E. L. Sa lte r Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) E A R LY S TA F F NORTH NEWLANDS Mi ss G. Ma cSwe e n Mis s P.E. R eev e Mi ss A li ce B. Mo n tgo me ry Mis s Mu ri el P. Mil l er Newlands Elementary SCHOOL SITE SURVEY NORTH NEWLANDS 1932 SD 57 Edu on ollecti age C Herit cation Cou rtes y of The Prin ce G Nov eorge emb C er 9 itizen , 19 50 Newlands Elementary NEWLANDS CASH BOOK 1941-1946 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Newlands Elementary RED CROSS NOTES At Newlands, school children and women knitted and sent to the Red Cross a colourful afghan. It is probable that a raffle will be held at some future date with the afghan as first prize. July 30, 1942 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Winter Sc ene Newl a nds Station The Exploration Place P981.17.82 RATEPAYER Secretary of School District No. 57 states that, effective Jan. 1, rental for Newlands school teacherage was increased from $20 to $45 a month. This includes fuel and light but not water. February 11, 1957 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Newlands Elementary LEGALS SALE OF SCHOOL BUILDINGS NEWLANDS SCHOOL SITE Sealed bids will be received by the undersigned until noon on Wednesday, April 21st, 1971, for the purchase of the following buildings, to be sold as one lot. Lot 1, C.L. 8364, C.D. Plan 8463 one mile east of Eaglet Lake, north of C.N.R. tracks. Property is bounded by Highway to Upper Fraser on East and North sides. Buildings only for disposal. School Building 26’ x 36’ Frame Construction as is. Teacherage Building 24’ x 36” Frame Construction as is. Misc. Other Buildings Frame Construction as is. Purchaser will be required to remove buildings and clean up within 30 days of acceptance of offer. Envelopes containing bids are to be marked on the outside “BUILDINGS-NEWLANDS”. The highest or any offer will not necessarily be accepted. P.B. Holmes Supervisor of Purchasing and Inventory Control School District No. 57 (Prince George) 1891 – 6th Avenue Prince George, B.C. Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen April 5, 1971 North Nechako Elementary 1956-2002 3307 North Nechako Road, Prince George Mission Statement To enable all students, parents and staff to learn and grow together in a safe environment by acquiring the knowledge, skills and attitudes for social responsibility and life-long learning. History North Nechako Elementary 1986 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The school was named for its location north of the Nechako River. The original school was a tworoom structure located at 701 North Nechako Road. In the 1960’s, a mudroom, office, staffroom and three classrooms were added and a portable installed on site. A grade 5 and a grade 6 class were bussed to the basement of King George V Elementary. This original site and buildings were sold to the Prince George Association for Christian Education (Cedars Christian School) in 1980 for $65,201. In 1971, a new six-room school was built by Norcan Construction on North Nechako Road near Foothills Boulevard. A local architect, Jo Briggs, designed it. When the new school opened, a large enrollment required portables to be located on the new site and some primary classes had to be held down the road in the old Nechako School buildings. In 1973, the portables were combined into a “temporary” modular addition of four classrooms that became the primary wing of the school. The school was originally called Nechako North but was changed to North Nechako in 1974. The “little white building” portable and the temporary addition were used until the school closed in 2002. The students were moved to Edgewood Elementary. North Nechako Grade 2 Class 1959 Exploration Place 2004.2.765 North Nechako Elementary PRINCIPALS Don Clippingdale John Norman G erry Dulmage Chris Boyle Don Basserman Bud Burbee Terry Henry Jack Blair Wayne G iesbrecht John McG laddery enrollment y ear 1956 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2001 gra de # 1-6 57 1-6 57 1-7 135 1-7 196 K-7 518 K-7 264 K-7 237 K-7 238 K-7 257 K-7 203 Source: Public Schools A nnual R eport (s) Div. 2, Mr. Anderson’s Grade 6 Class SD 57 Education Heritage Collection North Nechako Staff 1980 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection North Nechako Elementary Did You Know? T he Hart Highway area was sparsely populated in the 1950’s and 1960’s as the John Hart Highway was only built in 1945-1946. North Nechako, Hart Highway and Kelly Road Elementary schools, built in the mid 1950’s, were the only schools on the north side of the river. There was even some discussion in the 1960’s of forming a separate municipality across the river. The School Board considered the area to be rural in nature as seen in the advertisement below. Advertisement T Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen November 6, 1961 raffic was a safety concern in both school locations as children had to walk along North Nechako Road. It was the only road across the river that ran along the entire lower part of the Nechako River area. The road was narrow in places and did not have proper walkways or adequate traffic signs. The school board often requested that the RCMP set up “friendly radar traps” to warn motorists of the invisible school driveways. Grade 7 students and some parents formed volunteer school traffic patrols at both sites during the 1970’s. Traffic Crossing Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen A pril 29, 1971 North Nechako Elementary Memories I became principal of the school in 1967. The fellow I took over for left to become a pastor for a religious group in Kamloops. He had also converted some families in the school to the same religion. We had to deal with some overage children in the school and had them transferred to the high school at Christmas. The school was located at the 701 North Nechako site during my tenure from October 1967 to June 1969. In 1967, the school consisted of 4 classrooms plus a “Harry Bailey” portable that could house 28 students. There were 197 students in grades 1-7. The classrooms were crowded with over forty students in each room. Masking tape was laid on the floor three feet from the blackboard as that was deemed the closest students could be to the blackboard and desks in rows went to the back of the rooms. Students could only enter and exit from the front of the rows. The teacher’s desk was squeezed in one corner at the front. The principal taught full time and a librarian from Hart Highway elementary visited two afternoons per week. One activity that was unique to me, coming from a more urban background, was the Christmas dinner and activity night that I was informed about shortly after my arrival the first year. It was a tradition that had gone on for a number of years. It was a hot Christmas dinner and entertainment by the classes and a visit from Santa. Three parents cooked turkeys, my wife cooked a big ham, and others cooked vegetables, brought pies, cake and goodies. Everything that moved was cleared out of the rooms. It was a very enjoyable social community event. My second year at North Nechako, we created a swim program in the spring. Dawn Nylund, one of our staff, was a qualified swim instructor and Mrs. Poser, who lived just up the hill, volunteered her pool for lessons. We had each class up to the pool for six weeks for lessons with staff trading classes to cover Mrs. Nyland’s class. In winter, Mr. Redhead, a retired gentleman who lived next to the school, prepared an ice rink for the school and the community. It was built on a bed of shavings with low boards. He started as soon as it was cold enough, building up the ice in small layers. He ended up with a sheet of ice that was about 16 inches deep. I remember him out in cold weather with pans of water pouring it in the cracks. We all thought it was the best outdoor rink in Prince George. It survived the warm spells and was the activity centre for the children in winter as there was no gym. John Norman 2002, retired principal North Nechako “Harry Bailey Portable SD 57 Education Heritage Collection North Nechako Elementary My first assignment as a Principal was at North Nechako School in September 1969. We had about 180 students, a part time librarian, part time secretary, part time principal, six classroom teachers and five balding white and brown rats. A Bailey portable was in use and grade 5 and 6 classes were located in the basement of King George V School in downtown Prince George. Grade 7 physical education happened at Hart Highway with the kind co-operation of Mr. Bill Voth and assistance from the superintendent in the form of bussing dollars. The new school, designed by local architect Jo Briggs, was located down the North Nechako Road on the far side of Foothills Boulevard. When it opened in 1971, it was over full before it was finished and, in classic SD57 tradition, two portables and a Bailey were placed on site to help accommodate the initial enrollment of about 270 students. There was no fanfare, no politicians, not even a trustee, just a photo in the Prince George Citizen of Mrs. Smith’s class trekking the North Nechako Road, books and all! The new school was vandal-proof with no outside windows! Lots of new furniture and a real office! The new school had the major advantage of having collected the entire school attendance area population in one place with its own gym. And what a gym! A suspended wood floor covered with ½” cushioned linoleum, moveable bleachers with their own storage, portable hoops for basketball and three badminton courts as well as modular climbing frames and trestles. The grounds were mostly gravel so Sports Day happened at Seymour the first year. In the summers of 1973 and 1974, we had wonderful extended overnight field-trips to the Bowron Lakehead and then Jasper and Whistlers campground, for the grade 6 and 7’s, with Nukko Lake principal Mr. Redmond. I have some marvelous memories of supportive parents, adventuresome education and wonderful students. Mr. Kyrein flooded a rink for us each year. Vic Steblin playing the piano for the choir and coaching for the basketball team was happily provided by Gerda Blok and Jane Van Driesum. North Nechako was a vibrant and exciting time for me and I remember the staffs and students with whom I worked until 1974 with great fondness: the school was a better place for their involvement. Chris Boyle 2002, retired principal Ness Lake Camp Field Trip 1987 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection North Nechako Elementary Activities RCMP Visit 1989 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Wall Mural 2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Problem Solving Challenge 1988 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Reading Buddies Grade 5 & Kindergarten 1986 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Christmas 1980 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection North Nechako Elementary Sports Team T-Shirts 1960-2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Grade 7 Boys Sports Award 1986 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Walk, Run Club 1995 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Boys’ Basketball Team 1995 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection North Nechako Elementary Memories Balloon Memories One of my most memorable projects with students at North Nechako Elementary was also, unfortunately, the one that went the most wrong and for which I received good-natured ribbing for years. When I moved to the school, I was given a grade 4/5 assignment and decided to utilize a balloon building kit I had purchased years before. I liked the idea of the balloon project since you could explore various scientific principles, connect it to literature such as “21 Balloons”, use it for art inspiration, etc. It was also great for cooperation as about six students would have to work together to create their balloon. It was one of those things that was fun and made school enjoyable. All the constructing occurred across the hall, in the library, under the watchful eye of parent volunteers. The students constructed the balloons using specially cut coloured tissue paper. The balloons were 2.5 meters high and were inflated with hot air from a tiger torch which was at one end of 4 metres of stove piping. At one point, a parent asked me if it was alright to make a very slight design change. Her idea seemed to make sense and I agreed to the change. However, I had no idea how this change would grossly affect things on launch day. I put out a school wide invitation to come and see our beautiful balloons float up, up and away over the school. On the given launch day, there was quite a gathering of students and parents. I was worried about one thing; a wind was blowing quite briskly, but I didn’t want to cancel and disappoint so many people. I soon discovered that the wind interfered with the ability to inflate the balloons. During a less breezy period, the balloon would partially fill but a gust would come through and flatten the balloon again. This happened repeatedly and created frustration on my behalf. Also the crowd was growing restless. I was determined to have at least one good launch. I finally got one balloon well filled. I gave the signal to let it go and, as it rose up, I gasped in disbelief while the students excitedly pointed at the ascending object. They were pointing to that glorious beautiful multi-coloured creation, rising above the school and on fire! Now I realized why the original design had the frayed end of the paper on the wire ring turned outwards instead of inwards. The hot stovepipe had provided what was needed to get a fire going on those loose ends. My heart went to my mouth. Where was this fireball going to land and what would it result in? I could visualize some awful consequences of my actions and the chastisement I was in for. I, along with the assembled audience, watched the balloon burn itself out without damaging the tree it became hooked on as it had been raining for the past two weeks. I was relieved, but the children were excited by what they had witnessed and filed back to their classes reliving the details to one another. I was glad that all ended in a safe way. The experience did provide inspiration for students doing “balloon art”, writing “balloon stories” and discussing the various science phenomena that was demonstrated by this fiery adventure. As the years went by, until I retired, it was always in the back of my mind to do the project again. Erich Franz, former teacher Penny Elementary LOCATION 1920-1985 Penny Elementary was located 128 km east of Prince George. The Penny station was at Mile 69.5 on the CN railway line on the north side of the Fraser River. P enny El ement a ry 19 80 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Access to the community was by rail or by road to the Fraser River, then by boat across the river or, in winter, by ice bridge. HISTORY The school was open intermittently from 1920 to 1971 and then reopened from 1978 until its final closure in 1985. The first school was operated from 1921 to 1925 in an old sawmill bunkhouse at Red Mountain Creek. The community replaced this building with a one-room school in 1930. In 1953, the Prince George school district replaced the school with the two-classroom building pictured above. The cost of the new school and a teacherage was $12,000. The building was placed on a 1.45-acre site with a four-acre grant of Crown land south of the school designated as a playground. Enrollment in the school varied as the sawmill and logging industry in the area flourished or declined. In 1971, the school closed due to lack of enrollment; supervised correspondence courses were offered until 1978. The first teacher in 1920 was Miss H. Thomas. The school was closed in 1985 by principal, George Harding. Cl a ss 193 7 Penny Reunion Committee 1985 Penny Elementary ENROLL M E N T YEAR 1945 1947 1950 1953 1955 1957 1960 1963 1965 1967 1970 1978 1970 1978 GRADES # 1-8 27 1-9 32 1-9 31 1-8 51 1-8 32 1-8 34 1-8 31 1-7 29 1-7 21 1-7 11 2-7 6 K-7 12 K-7 8 K-7 7 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) P e n n y Te ac h e rs Fra nc es Wil son & M ar ie Jopp 1 944 Penny Reunion Committee 1985 S TA F F Mrs. L. O. Cameron Mr. P. A. Green Miss Alfreda Larsen Miss Madge Blackman Miss Jean E. McLeod Miss Gwendolyn Lang Miss Merle Mallery Ruth Aronson Mr. E. A. Hill-Tout Mr. Otto Wahl Miss Marion Gunn Mrs. H. McDougal Miss C. M. Parnas Mrs. Gladys Martel Miss Frances Wilson Miss Marie Jopp Mrs. Charlotte Benton Miss Helen McArran Russ and Joan Martin Olga Horn Erika Ernst 1920-1985 Bernice Humpherville Lydia Heibner Mike and Arvilla Linley Roy Warner Sadie Marsh Frye Juliet Frazer Elizabeth Ferris Pauline York Brian and Sandra Dawson Maxine Bourgeois Pamela O’Neil Jim Polomark Dave Windle Miss Wally Ballhorn Ted Ross Ben Marks Kissun Singh Gordon Harris Lori Allen Lisette Yokimas George Harding Penny Elementary G ra de 5 Pe n n y R e p or t Ca rd 194 4 Courtesy of Elsie Deszcz, former student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Did You Know? B OB HARKINS, LATE PRINCE GEORGE RADIO AND TELEVISION PERSONALITY, ATTENDED SCHOOL IN PENNY. AUTHORS CLARENCE AND JACK BOUDREAU ALSO ATTENDED SCHOOL IN PENNY. I N THE 1929-1930 SCHOOL YEAR, AT THE SUGGESTION OF THE INSPECTOR OF SCHOOLS, A STUDENT’S DOG WAS ADDED TO THE ROLLS TO MAKE UP THE MINIMUM NUMBER OF STUDENTS REQUIRED FOR KEEPING THE SCHOOL OPEN. M T ANY STUDENTS IN THE PENNY AREA ATTENDED HIGH SCHOOL IN PRINCE GEORGE. THEY STAYED IN THE PRINCE GEORGE DORMITORY AND TOOK THE TRAIN HOME ON HOLIDAYS. HERE WAS A “PENNY” COLUMN IN THE CITIZEN NEWSPAPER IN THE 1940’S AND 1950’S. THIS COLUMN REPORTED ON THE SOCIAL EVENTS IN THIS ISOLATED COMMUNITY, AND ON SCHOOL ACTIVITIES SUCH AS SPORTS AND CONCERTS. P ENNY HAD A SCHOOL NEWSPAPER IN THE 1940’S. Penny Elementary Memories I lived in Penny 71 years, from 1931-2002. I attended grades one to eight at the Penny School. The 3R’s were emphasized, but we also had a full range of subjects, like Social Studies, Science, Music, Art, Health, P.E. ...everything they have today except computers and TV sets. We had the school radio shows and National Film Board movies, which both helped a lot with science, nature and history. Later we got a slide projector. We had occasional spelling bees. Most tests were done on Fridays, and exams were written at Christmas, Easter and June. Report cards came out right after the exams. There were also Government standard tests in May. We always had a big Christmas concert, with plays and carols. After the concert there was usually a dance, which was attended by the whole community. The money for Santa’s gifts was collected by means of a box social. All the women would fix a lunch for two and put it in a fancy box. These were raffled off to the highest bidder and some husbands had to pay quite a lot to eat lunch with their wives, if the bachelors found out whose box was being raffled off! Clarence Boudreau, former student. Interviewed by UNBC student, Corey Walker, 2002. Sc hool Cr est 1 970’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Penny Elementary PENNY SCHOOL TO CLOSE? For years, the fate of Penny School, 50 miles east of here on the CNR line to McBride, has depended on the train. Sitting on the north side of the Fraser River without access to the Yellowhead Highway, the community school got its supplies by rail. Penny School, a two-room elementary building with a teacherage, is the last truly isolated school in the district. Tuesday the school board was told the CNR plans to discontinue its Penny section stop which would close the school. Penny’s principal and only teacher, Gordon Harris, told the school board that when the CNR eliminates its section crew this summer, five of the school’s nine pupils will likely leave. The remaining parents seem to be somewhat concerned about the fate of the school should enrolment drop to four, Harris wrote. The school board shared their concern. It referred the matter to its education staff for study and recommendation. If the school enrolment drops to four, the school board would have four alternatives: ~ to keep the school open, which would be uneconomical; ~ take children by bus to another school, which is impossible since Penny is inaccessible by road and there is no ferry across the river; ~ board students in Prince George; ~ provide children with correspondence courses. April 15, 1970 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Penny Elementary LETTERS FROM PENNY Dear Sir: As a resident and parent at Penny, I wish to reply to allegations made by school board members. First I would like to point out that other schools have stayed open with seven pupils. Longworth School opened with only seven one year. As far as Teddy Priebe (the five-year old) not being admissable- this has been allowed many times before, including right here at this school. We have been in touch with the school board office in Prince George many times. The member with whom we have been dealing has been informed of our every move. Apparently there has been a breakdown of communications between board members, since the other members claim not to have been informed of our problems. It is an obvious admission of incompetence on their part to admit they knew of no “problem out there”, until they read it in The Citizen, and thank God for newspapers or they may never have found out at all. In closing I would like to add that it is a bitter pill to swallow to have a school board representative fly out here in a chartered aircraft, when everyone else, including C.N. officials come here by car or train. Mrs. Art Croy Penny, B.C. September 28, 1970 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Fl oat P l ane 196 3 D a ve E ld r e d , Ke ll y L a V o i e, D i st r i c t Su pe r vi s o r s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Pylot (Pilot) Mountain Elementary 1948-1959 LOCATION The school was located at the corner of Ness Lake and Chief Lake roads northwest of Prince George. I n te ri o r o f P yl o t M o u n t ai n Sch o o l 1 950 The Exploration Place 2002.48.27 HISTORY This was the first portable one-room school to be built in the school district. It was built to be easily moved if the population shifted to a different locality. Dave Spence donated two acres of land and the local farmers in the district pitched in to help Harry Bailey, and the school district maintenance crew, in the school’s construction. Mrs. Ethel M. Cook was the first teacher. This particular school was significant because it was the most centrally located site for the present Nukko Lake School. Due to lack of water and the availability of more land for growth, the decision to close the school was made in 1959. Art Sodergren, a long time resident of the area and a school trustee with four girls attending the school, remembers hauling water “from anywhere I could get it” for the school. The teacher and the students were bussed to the present site of the Nukko Lake School. The Pylot Mountain School and a teacherage were moved to Reid Lake in May 1960. Pylot (Pilot) Mountain Elementary ENROLLMENT E A R LY S TA F F M r s . Et h e l M . C o o k Miss Markle M r s . Ba b c o c k Alfred Jones Miss Doris Christante YEAR 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 GRADES # 1-7 13 1-8 17 1-8 15 1-8 16 1-7 12 1-7 14 1-8 18 1-5 18 1-8 23 1-8 16 1-8 21 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) I n te ri o r o f P yl o t M o u n t ai n Sch o o l 1 950 The Exploration Place 2002.48.31 Red Pass Elementary 1928-1967 LOCATION The school was located 63 km west of Jasper, at the west end of Moose Lake in the Rocky Mountains, at the junction point of the CN railways. Red Pass was named after the red tinted rock on the ridges above the settlement. R ed P a ss El ement a ry 19 47 The Exploration Place 2003.16.30 HISTORY A one-room log school was opened in 1928 with Miss E. Molly Gregory as the first teacher. The school was closed shortly thereafter and reopened from 1934 to 1940. It closed again until 1947 and remained open until 1967. A new school building and teacherage replaced the old building in 1951. After a flu epidemic almost wiped out the community in the 1930’s, Red Pass made a comeback when the CN made it a junction of the southern and northern railways in the 1950’s. Some of the early teachers were: John Sanders, James H. Wells, Miss J. R. Allan, Douglas McKenzie, Miss Schnetizler and Mrs. Castle Burns. The enrollment ranged from 7 students in 1948 in grades 1-4 to 21 students in 1965 in grades 1-7. Re d P as s S c h o o l Cl a ss 1937 Valemount Historical Society Red Pass Elementary A column in the Prince George Citizen during the late 1940’s and early 1950’s appeared under the byline “RED PASS”. Some excerpts appear below. The Red Pass community held a meeting November 2, in the Red Pass School to decide activities for the winter months. It was decided to hold card nights, indoor sports evenings, dances, skiing and tobogganing. Mrs. C. Chapman, N. Reed and O. Olsen are in charge of the cards every Wednesday evening. A. Leary, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Wurik are on the committee for dances to be held every two weeks. Miss C. Reed, Mrs. Wm. Mann and L. Crate are to sponsor the skiing and tobogganing to be held on Sunday afternoons and moonlight evenings. November 13, 1947 AChristmas tree party for the children of Red Pass was held Tuesday last. A very successful dance was held on Saturday, December 13, at the Red Pass School with proceeds going towards the purchase of a piano for the community. A good crowd was in attendance and a good time was enjoyed by all. December 25, 1947 R e d Pa ss Sc h ool Pa g e an t 19 50’ s Valemount Historical Society The picture show by the B .C. Forestry Department was enjoyed by Red Pass school children as they seldom have an opportunity of seeing a motion picture. The children are greatly interested in the arrangements necessary for the passing of the royal train through this area and are asking why the princess doesn’t want to go through in the day time so that she may take a picture of Mount Robson. They say they are going to get up at 4 o’clock in the morning to see the train. October 1, 1951 Red Rock Elementary 11954-2001 23515 West Red Rock Road LOCATION This school was located 30 km south of Prince George, west of Highway 97. MISSION STATEMENT It is our responsibility to challenge and prepare each member of the school community to reach his or her full potential in a caring, accepting and safe environment. COMMUNITY HISTORY The community of Red Rock received its name from Barkerville gold seekers as they travelled north and discovered the reddish color of the iron rock found near Red Rock Creek, in the Fort George Canyon. Many Red Rock families were involved in small sawmills along the nearby Fraser River, while others homesteaded in the area during the 1920-1940’s. In the early 1950’s, Red Rock did experience a small boom in population when families moved to the area to work on the PGE Railway. Another rise in population occurred in the 1970’s when the BC Forest Service operated a forest research nursery at Red Rock. This project was closed in 2000. R e d R o c k E l e me n t a r y 1 9 7 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Prior to 1955, students in the area were bussed to Stoner Elementary School, if they could make their way out to the bus pick-up spot on Highway 97. Red Rock Elementary SCHOOL HISTORY In 1955, the first Red Rock School was opened. It consisted of one large portable building that had no washrooms or running water. In 1958, the district tried to close this school and bus students to Stoner and Hixon schools. The community pressured the School Board to build a new school near Red Rock Creek, the school’s only source of water. By 1962, enrollment had increased and a second portable was moved onto this property. When a fire destroyed the larger portable in 1966, another portable was installed and the outhouses were upgraded to chemical toilets. In 1968, the School Board again suggested closure. The community protested, and Victoria intervened so the school stayed open. Thus began a very colourful and controversial history of a lobby by the Red Rock Community Association for a modern facility, where students did not have to brave the cold in order to use the bathroom. In the early 1970’s, Red Rock School was the most antiquated facility in the school district. R e d R o ck S ch o o l O u t h o u se s 1 9 7 4 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen R e d R oc k Sc h o ol 1 95 0’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Red Rock Elementary After a 12-year battle, and much deliberation, a site was finally chosen for a new school approximately 1 km down the road. In 1979, the modern school opened with three classrooms, a fully equipped gymnasium, a small library, a computer lab, a black topped and flood-lit playing area, a seminar room, washrooms for boys and girls, a separate washroom for staff, and an additional student washroom in the kindergarten area. O l d & Ne w F a c i l i t i e s 1 97 9 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen The official opening of the school took place in the gymnasium, on October 12, 1979. M od SD 5 e rn 7 Ed Staff at School Opening C Ceremony 1979 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection iza ucat ti on ion H erita P os ge C t er ollec 19 7 tion 9 Conrad Kowalenko was Principal of the school at this time. A plaque presented to the school listed Bruce Strachan as Chairman of the Board, A.R. Myhre as Superintendent, Desmond Parker as Architect and Crossroads Construction as General Contractor. Red Rock Elementary ENROLLME N T YEAR 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 GRADES # 1-6 18 1-4 23 1-7 43 1-6 34 1-6 33 K-7 46 K-7 54 K-7 49 K-7 49 K-3 9 G r ad e 3 - 6 C l a ss 1 9 7 2 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) PRINCI PAL S 1971-2001 To n y Gi ff o r d K e n To d d Harry Doten Conrad Kowalenko O rv i l l e Br o w n Homme van der Meer Bru c e B a l l a n t y n e Leigh Erwin Ly nd a S to p p l e r G r a de 4 - 7 Cl a s s 1 9 8 8 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Grade 7 students stayed at the Red Rock School from 1979 until 1999. In 1999, the Grade 5 – 7 students were bussed to Buckhorn Elementary and Red Rock became a primary school. By the year 2000, only nine K-3 students remained in the school. The school was closed in June 2001 and subsequently sold to a private business venture. All students in this area are now bussed to Buckhorn Elementary School. S t af f 1 9 9 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Red Rock Elementary SCHOOL ACTIVITIES For a small rural school, students were involved in a variety of activities such as cross country running, Christmas concerts, Halloween parties, track and field meets, relay races, ski trips, trips to Barkerville and outings to the Prince George swimming pool. R e s t i n g A f t e r C r o s s Co u n t r y R u n 1 9 9 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection St o r y Boo k T i m e 2 00 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection S k i i n g & S n o w b o a r di n g a t T a b o r M o u n t ai n 2 0 0 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Red Rock Elementary Did You Know? I N DECEMBER 1951, INSPECTOR OF SCHOOLS, R.G. WILLISTON, WAS DISPATCHED TO THE RED ROCK AREA TO INVESTIGATE A REQUEST FROM A FAMILY TO PROVIDE AN ALTER- NATE METHOD OF PROVIDING EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES AS THEY LIVED 5 MILES AWAY FROM STONER SCHOOL AND CORRESPONDENCE COURSES WERE UNSATISFACTORY. IN HIS REPLY TO R.C. GRANT, EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT, MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, MR. WILLISTON WROTE: “YOU WOULD NOT BE INTERESTED IN MY STORY BUT IT INCLUDED A THREE HOUR DIG [THROUGH THE SNOW] IN 22 BELOW ZERO WEATHER (AND) I DID NOT REACH THE PLACE WHERE THIS FAMILY IS LIVING.” THE FAMILY EVENTUALLY LEFT THE RED ROCK AREA AND MOVED TO THE STONER AREA WHERE THE CHILDREN COULD BE BUSSED TO THAT SCHOOL. RED ROCK A Christmas concert was held in Red Rock School on Friday evening. The programme consisted of recitations, singing, tap dancing and a play, “Robin Hood”. After the children received their presents from Santa, a party was held with lunch being served. In spite of the subzero temperatures, a large crowd turned out to make the concert a success. O NE HUNDRED AND FIFTY ADULTS ATTENDED THE RED ROCK CHRISTMAS CONCERT OF 1996, WHICH WAS PRECEDED BY A POTLUCK SUPPER ORGANIZED BY THE RED ROCK P.A.C. THERE WERE 41 STUDENTS ATTENDING THE SCHOOL AT THIS TIME. K INDERGARTEN CLASSES, PRIOR TO 1979, WERE HELD IN A LEAN-TO ATTACHED TO THE SIDE OF A FARMHOUSE ABOUT 5 KM FROM THE SCHOOL. R ICK HANSEN, ON HIS MAN IN MOTION TOUR, VISITED RED ROCK SCHOOL IN MARCH 1987. Due to extremely cold weather, films, which were to be shown in the school on Thursday evening, had to be cancelled. February 17, 1949 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen R i c k H a n s e n , R e d R o c k G ym n a s i u m 1 9 8 7 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Reid Lake Elementary LOCATION M ai n B u i l di n g , R e i d L a k e S c h o o l 1 9 8 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection ITS PHYSICAL EVOLUTION 1926-1983 Reid Lake School sat in a pocket of small farms cleared by homesteaders in the 1920’s. Approximately 37 kilometres northwest of Prince George, the school served its community from 1926 to December 31, 1983. The small lake after which it is named is located about 3 kilometres away and the school itself was constructed on two acres of a former hayfield. The school first saw life as a simple log building and then, gradually, according to need, added outbuildings which eventually included two teacherages, a portable classroom, and a woodshed. The main building which still stands today was built in 1955 to replace the original structure. The property was purchased by the Reid Lake Community Association soon after the school’s closure in 1983. LOCAL FAMILIES The Reid Lake School fit into the pattern of rural schools built throughout School District 57 (Prince George). Poor roads, large families and a scattered population necessitated a network of oneand two-room schools. Large families remained a backbone of this school with several area families having 10 or more children. The Jarvis, McCabe, Kwiatkowski, and Kristensen families, among others, kept the school’s enrollment at viable levels for many years. EARLY TEACHERS 1927-1937 Mr. Ken Bradley Miss E. Mitchell Miss E.J. Hunt E.H.Robinson J.F. Smith Miss Elsie Hunt H.W. Hildige A.S. Patterson Miss Dorothy Parker First Principal Ms. Debby Thomson Last Principal T e ac h e ra ge (l e f t) ; W o o ds h e d ( ri g h t) 196 4 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Reid Lake Elementary CHANGING DEMOGRAPHICS For a long period, there were two operating classrooms and two teacherages, allowing each staff member their own accommodation. During the 1963-64 school year, there were 28 students enrolled in Grades 1 through 7 and, unlike our larger schools today, there was not one single change in enrollment from September to June. I n 1964, t he tw o t ea cher ag es w er e m o ved side b y side an d con n ect ed t o cr eat e a siza ble ho me (wi th in do or plu mb in g!) t o ent ice m ar ri ed cou ples to t he ar ea . ~ John Stevens, teacher/principal ENROLLM E N T YEAR GRADES 1945-46 1-8 1963-64 1-7 1964-65 1-7 1966-67 1-6 1967-68 1-5 1968-69 1-6 1969-70 1-6 1970-71 1-6 1971-72 1-7 1972-73 1-5 1973-74 1-4 1974-75 1-4 1975-76 1-4 1976-77 1-5 1977-78 K-3 1978-79 K-3 1979-80 K-3 1980-81 K-2 1981-82 1-3 1982-83 K-4 1983-84 K-3 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) # 18 28 33 33 24 29 27 26 28 12 11 9 9 12 16 16 15 10 8 9 7 It was only later that a combination of factors, including a trend to smaller families, the development of better roads and the creation of a safe, reliable school bussing system led to the drop in enrollment, which made the school’s continued operation impractical. The school closed in June 1984 and the students were bussed to Nukko Lake. R e i d L ake Por t ab le ci r ca 195 8 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Reid Lake Elementary SOCIAL LIFE The social life of the community was a huge part of school life as well. Most families depended on a mixture of logging, dairy herds, and mixed farming for their livelihood. The Reid Lake Farmer’s Institute organized meetings, dances and other fundraisers, which were frequently held in the school. The school’s annual Christmas Concert was always an important event and very often was the means by which the community judged the success of the current teacher. Ken Bradley started this tradition in 1927. George McCabe, a student at the time, recalls that the concert celebrations continued all night. Years later, when John Stevens came to teach at Reid Lake, the first thing the parents wanted to know was the date of the Christmas Concert. When the school district came to consider closure of the school in the 1980’s, it was extremely important to the local community that the facilities remain available to maintain the quality of their rural lifestyle. REID LAKE SCHOOL DISTRICT ENJOYS BIG CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINMENT A very enjoyable Christmas entertainment was put on Friday evening by the children of the Reid Lake school district, which was attended by sixty residents of the Reid Lake and Isle Pierre districts. The programme opened with a concert which was pre- concert and as aucsented by the tioneer. The affair school children, netted $75.75, and after which came this will be used for the distribution of the purchase of presents from the extra supplies for gaily decorated Christmas tree, the school. there being someDecember 29, 1927 thing on the tree for every little one Courtesy of present. Dancing The Prince George followed the distriCitizen bution of the presents, and was continued until 4 T h e a f f a i r n e t t e d $ 7 5 . 7 5 , a n d t h i s will be used for the purchase of o’clock in the morning, excellent e x t r a s u p p l i e s f o r t h e s c h o o l . music being provided by Miss M. Clifford and W. Clifford. Mr. Hill, a new resident in the district, acted as announcer at the Reid Lake Elementary NESS LAKE DISTRICT Mr. Bradley, a former resident of Duncan, is now in charge of the Reid Lake school and reports an increase in attendance... W. Cook who with his wife and daughter arrived recently on a visit to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Cook, has been so impressed with the prospects in this district that he has filed on a piece of land in the vicinity of the schoolhouse and will make his home here. November 10, 1927 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Note: Mr. R. K. Bradley taught at Reid Lake School from 1927 to 1929. P ri n c i p al D e b b y Th o ms o n w i t h C la ss o f 19 81-8 2 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Reid Lake Elementary LOCAL HAPPENINGS The residents of the Reid Lake school district, in the vicinity of Isle Pierre have been conducting a number of socials with a view to raising funds for a public school library. The socials have proved very enjoyable and have been the means of raising a very tidy sum for the purpose designated. December 31, 1929 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen P r i nci pa l D ebb y T homs on wi t h C la ss 198 2 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection If you want to see the old school today: Drive north from Prince George about 12 km to Chief Lake Road. Turn left and follow the road past the Nukko Lake turnoff until you see the Welcome to Reid Lake sign. Turn left here and continue for about 7 km to Reid Lake Road. A right turn and about 1.5 km will bring you to Reid Lake School. Salmon Valley Elementary 18270 Trout Road, Prince George 1915-2010 “Learning and growing together” Mission Statement To provide all children with an equal opportunity to learn and develop to their full potential in a healthy, caring environment. Salmon Valley Elementary on Trout Road 1993 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History The Salmon Valley area, located approximately 19 km north of Prince George, began with settlers from the prairie provinces who arrived on the promise that the region was going to boom and that the railway, the PGE, would come through at some point. Life was difficult for these pioneers but with hard work and perseverance they established a community in Salmon Valley. With the arrival of people there was a need for a school. Over the years there were a series of small schools before a permanent modern school was built in 1982. Many of these small schools were also used for community events such as church services and The Farmers’ Institute meetings and dances. Hartley School was the first school and it operated from 1915-1917. This school was located on the west side of the Johnson’s farm. The school was named after George Hartley whose land was nearby. The first children to attend this school were from the Bonnett, Johnson and Turner families. Hartley School Courtesy of Edna Johnson Salmon Valley Elementary Map showing Salmon Valley school sites SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Salmon Valley Elementary The Salmon River School opened in 1919. It was built on Old Summit Lake Road North beside the Ruste’s farm. This school operated until 1930. By now the number of children attending school was increasing as more families moved into the area. The first school named Salmon Valley School was built on Beauregard’s Hill on land owned by the Beauregard family. The Beauregard and other families in the community worked together to construct a two-room log school building that included living quarters. The school board gave permission for a school to be built in the area and paid for the windows, doors, paint and furnishings. This school first operated from 1935-1940. Students in front of Salmon River School c1920 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Remains of Salmon Valley School on Beauregard Hill in 1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Between the years 1942-1947 Salmon Valley School was located on the Caron’s homestead on Old Summit South Road. The Carons built a number of little log buildings on their property, one of which was used for the school. In its final year of operation the Campbell family had two of Mrs. Campbell’s nieces staying with them in order to have enough children to keep the school open. After the school changed location the Carons used the building as a home for the hired help and later as a barn. Students in front of Salmon Valley School on Caron’s homestead 1944 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Salmon Valley Elementary From 1948-1950 the school building on Beauregard’s Hill was once again the setting for the Salmon Valley School. During this time School District #57 considered buying this property to construct a more permanent structure. However, in January 1951, a fire destroyed the school and the school board was no longer interested in the property, as they wanted land that was more accessible. From 1951-1963 Salmon Valley School was located on the Gymkhana grounds. According to the Prince George Citizen the school board purchased the land for a nominal sum through the cooperation of Salmon Valley resident, Gerald Plante. They moved the framed Salmon River School from near the Ruste’s farm to the Gymkhana grounds. After this school was no longer used it was moved to the LaCasse farm where it was used as a shed. Salmon Valley School on Gymkhana grounds c1950 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection In the fall of 1964 Salmon Valley School was situated west of the John Hart Highway and south of the Salmon River. This school site was used until November 1982. The school had two classrooms and portables for administration and storage. Unfortunately, the school was destroyed by fire in the early hours of January 1, 1980. Arson was suspected, as there was evidence of a break-in in the main building. This was never proved and the cause of the fire was never discovered. Students in grades 1-4 were able to continue their schooling in the portables that were still there. Two more portable classrooms were relocated from College Heights Secondary School for grades 5 and 6. There was also a small trailer moved in and used as an office and staffroom. After decades of schools being shifted around the Salmon Valley region, a modern permanent school was built on Trout Road and opened in November 1982. This school included classrooms, a gym and a library. In September 1983, parents, teachers and children spent five weekends completing an adventure playground. The parent-teacher association raised about $1400 towards this project. Unfortunately, due to declining enrollment and budget cuts, the school was closed in June 2010. Salmon Valley Elementary ENROLLMENT YEAR 1917 1945 1950 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2009 GRADE ND 1-8 2-8 1-9 1-8 1-6 1-6 K-6 K-6 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-6 K-6 K-6 Arson suspected in school # 10 13 12 18 25 53 51 66 72 84 80 79 77 35 31 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) fire Arson is suspected in a $150,000 fire which destroyed the Salmon Valley Elementary School Tuesday, leaving about 60 students without a school. School district administrators are meeting today to find a place for the Salmon Valley students to attend Monday when classess are scheduled to resume. The school was located about 27 km north of Prince George on the south side of the Salmon River and west of the Hart Highway. Fire investigators say arson is suspected because there is evidence of a break-in at the two-classroom school for Grades 1 to 7. January 1, 1980 PRINCIPALS Ray Giffin Richard Potter Ken Todd Gervin Halladay Gerry Sheanh Homme van der Meer Kerry Bergeron Diane Kikkert Dan Domes Eric Dodd Anjula Corbin Ron Howardson Luc St. Denis Anne Smith Deanna Hood Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Division 1 class photo 2007-2008 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Salmon Valley Elementary EARLY STAFF 1915-1950 Mrs. Edith McLauder Mrs. Maude McNeill Margaret L. Williams Mr. Elwood A. Rice Miss Mary Elizabeth Tucker Miss Phyllis A. Belsham Mrs. Julia A. Asher Mr. D.M. Moore Mrs. Marguerite MacDonald Mr. L.M. Sutherland Mrs. N.E. Bailey Mrs. E.G. Lynn Miss Nellie Gerrard Hazel B. MacTavish Mrs. Opal Jean (Wells) Holst Mrs. Margaret Wortman Mrs. Margaret MacLeod Miss Alice Ives Mrs. J. Charlotte Benton Mr. B. Schmidt Salmon Valley staff 2009-2010 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Salmon Valley Elementary Did You Know? M ary Tucker was a teacher at the Salmon River School from 1926 to 1927. She wrote an account of some of her experiences that were published in the book “Saga of a Pioneer’s Dream”, a history of the Salmon Valley region. As a young girl, not quite eighteen, she left Victoria to teach in remote British Columbia. To get to the school, she travelled by boat, train, car and then walked five miles from one of the trustees’ homes to the partially completed school. For most of the year she lived in a two-room addition that was built on the end of the school. Her descriptions of walking and driving in the ‘sticky gumbo’, of mice nibbling at her stuff, of hauling water from the well and trying to deal with the hordes of mosquitoes in the spring give a glimpse into the life of a rural teacher in the early twentieth century. It is interesting to note that she only spent one year at the Salmon River School before returning to Victoria. T he actor Grace Dove, who plays the role of Hugh Glass’s aboriginal wife in the 2016 Oscar winning film “The Revenant”, grew up in Salmon Valley and attended Salmon Valley Elementary School. It was there that her acting career began when she played the role of Santa Claus in a class Christmas concert production. At 10, she got a part in PGTV’s childrens’ show “Splatterday”. She continued her schooling at Heather Park Middle School and Kelly Road Secondary School where drama classes and acting roles were an important part of her education. After she got her driver’s license she was PGTV’s Fun Chaser community correspondent for a number of years. After high school Grace left Prince George for Vancouver and the Vancouver Film School. In 2016, she was one of the co-hosts of the reality TV show “UnderExposed” on the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN). Actress Grace Dove speaking at UNBC March 24, 2016 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Salmon Valley Elementary SPORTS Over the years the students of Salmon Valley Elementary participated in many types of sports such as cross-country running, track and field, relays, soccer, basketball and volleyball. Their teams were known as the Salmon Valley Sharks. Cross-country running team 1993 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Relays at Masich Place 2009 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Students also enjoyed snowshoeing, skating, sliding, skipping and swimming. After the Salmon Valley curling rink was built in 1986, the teachers began to incorporate curling as part of the school’s physical education curriculum. At times they joined other schools for mini-curling kidspiels. There were also special sporting events such as Sports Day, Winter Fun Day and the Terry Fox Run. Skating 2009 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Sports Day 2009 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Winter Fun 2008 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Kidspiel 1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Salmon Valley Elementary ACTIVITIES The students of Salmon Valley Elementary School took part in many different activities over the years. There were Craft Days for Christmas and Mother’s Day. The school hosted Airband and Survivor contests, Tech and Science Fairs and Aboriginal Days. Halloween often involved pumpkin carvings and spooky costumes. Christmas concerts were held almost every year. Airband 1992 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Science Fair 1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Numerous theme days included Crazy Hair Day, Twin/Triplet Day, Beach Day, Teddy Bear Day, Pajama Day and Wacky Hat Day. Field trips enhanced school life and learning. Students travelled to places like Forests for the World, Exploration Place, Two Rivers Art Gallery, Fort George Park, Camp McInnis and Barkerville. Camp McInnis 1992 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Staff arranged for many guest speakers and programs including the Bat Lady, Louie the Lightning Bug, Huble Homestead, Hooked on Books and the Fire Safety program. Crazy Hair Day 2008-2009 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Salmon Valley Elementary Memories We sent our eldest daughter to school one morning [in the 1950’s] with hotcake sandwiches. It was one morning that we had run out of bread. Of course her nose was out of joint. She was thoroughly disgusted…but, surprisingly enough, by the end of the week it was a new fad in the school to have hotcake sandwiches. Everad Shields, parent There was a shortage of teachers (during the war years) and our first teacher we had after the school reopened was a retired teacher from CBS Island where the Japanese bombed the fish cannery. Miss G---was just brutal as she used to hit us with her cane, books and rulers on the back of our necks until we had nose bleeds, then had to stand in the corner. She boarded at our house and many years later Mum told us she was an alcoholic and that’s why she stayed in bed all weekend and had a hangover on the rest of the week! Allan Campbell, former student We were quite excited that our school was burned to the ground during the Christmas holidays on an early morning in 1950. Our teacher, Mr. Schmidt, lived in the teacherage and an overheated heater caused the stove pipes to catch on fire. Mr. Schmidt just got out and managed to save some important papers, but the money in a jar that was raised for the hot lunches all melted into a pile. We all had an extended holiday so the School District could move the old schoolhouse with attached teacherage from Old Summit Lake Road North onto a two-acre lot that Ronald Plante sold to the School District. Noema Thue, former student Martin and I attended for eight years. We had some excellent teachers who worked very hard for us. They not only taught us, they became our friends. Although Martin didn’t think so while he was writing lines, something he did over and over again. One winter Uncle Nelson was boarding a team of blacks and we rode them to school. They were easy to manage in the morning, but coming home was a different story. We had to mount them in the school barn. Once out the door, it was top speed all the way home where one or both of us would end up in the snow bank as we turned into the yard at a full gallop. Mereline (Solmonson) Griffith, former student, 1940s-50s Probably the most striking improvement I have experienced over the years has been the quality of children’s voices. When I came to Salmon Valley, I doubted whether I would ever produce a choir capable of performing in public. Now with very little effort, the children are able to produce such lovely sounds. Marg Schuett, teacher at Salmon Valley 1980s Quotes courtesy of: Shirley Gratton and Jennifer Rollings. Saga of a Pioneer’s Dream. Salmon River Farmers’ Institute, 1997. Seymour Elementary 1963-2002 2641 Ellison Drive, Prince George “Be More at Seymour” Mission Statement The mission of our school is to provide a safe place for all to learn, work and play. All staff and students work towards these goals by making good choices and being responsible for their actions. Seymour Sharks Seymour Elementary School 1988 S afe H elpful A ccepting R esponsible K ind S uccessful SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History Seymour Elementary School opened to students in September 1963. Designed by architect Desmond Parker and built by John Rowe Construction, the school was located in the new Seymour subdivision established that same year south of 15th Avenue and east of the Bypass Highway. The school was situated in a beautiful picturesque park-like setting with a large green field in front and a forest, plus play area, in back. Except for the roof, the school was built of concrete blocks and described at the time as virtually fireproof. The $115,000 school was comprised of one wing with an office, a staffroom, a library and eight large classrooms with window seats at each end. The architect’s plans for an addition, which called for an additional eight classrooms and a full gymnasium complete with a stage, was completed in 1965. The school and the subdivision were named in honour of Mary Margaret Seymour, more widely known as Granny Seymour, a highly respected “Matriarch of the North”. The school was built to relieve the over-enrollment pressure of three neighbouring schools, Connaught, Harwin and King George V. The Prince George population was burgeoning in response to the arrival of employees for the three newly established pulp and paper mills, Prince George Pulp and Paper, Northwood Pulp and Timber and Intercon. During the late 1960s, class sizes could range from 30-40+ students and at one point, with over-crowding, there was a class housed on the stage and in two additional portables on site. Seymour Elementary In 2002, one year before Seymour Elementary’s 40th birthday, declining enrollment in the school district prompted the closure and sale of the school to the B.C. Francophone School District #93. Seymour Elementary School closed in June and re-opened as l’École Franco-Nord in September. Ironically Seymour Elementary students were then transferred back, 39 years later, to Harwin Elementary that was the one surviving school of the original three that Seymour was built to relieve. GRANNY SEYMOUR (1852-1966) Granny Seymour was born Mary Margaret Boucher, daughter of Tartnan, from Fort Simpson and James Boucher (Bouchey), who worked for the Hudson Bay Company in Fort St. James. Her maternal grandfather, Chief Chini Martin’s family chieftain’s heritage went back many generations and her paternal grandparents were Jean Baptiste Boucher (Cree) and Lady Nancy McDougal. Her paternal great grandfather was James McDougal who accompanied Simon Fraser on his journeys. Mary Margaret was born in 1852 (accounts differ as to her actual birthdate) and raised with her siblings on Stuart Lake in Ft. St. James. When she was very young, she was reported to have fractured her skull when she fell into a river. Her uncle, Dr. McKenzie, placed a steel plate in her head and from that day forward she wore a flannel-lined black skull cap to cover and protect it. As a young adult Mary Margaret worked at the Hudson’s Bay Company Post and married her first husband. They had two children. Various historical documents list her first husband under three different names: Antoine Lafrenire, Ed Flambeau and Edward Flema. She moved to Fort George where she met and later married Billy Seymour and had six more children. She walked with her eight children over 3 km to church every Sunday. She taught her children that hate and greed can kill people, “love and sharing are more important”. Granny Seymour was deeply respected for her love of others and her readiness to help all those in need, both aboriginal and non-aboriginal. With her knowledge of traditional herbalist medicine she was relied upon as a healer and as a midwife. Because she believed that her knowledge of healing medicine was God-given, she shared her cures freely and felt that “medicine is grown and put on this earth for us to use: to make use of not to sell”. The birch bark baskets she created continue to be treasured artifacts. Her reputation brought Prime Minister Diefenbaker, Great Britain’s Princess Margaret and Billy Graham’s associate, Dr. Leighton Ford, to personally meet her while on visits to Prince George. At the age of 105, she still lived alone in a South Fort George cottage splitting her own wood and continuing to walk over 3 km to church every Sunday. Upon her death in 1966, at the believed age of 114, two hundred and fifty people from all walks of life attended her funeral. Newspapers referred to her as a “Legend”. Sources: Exploration Place Archives Narrative Threads Crafting the Canadian Quilt Publication The Prince George Citizen Seymour Elementary ENROLLMENT YEAR 1963 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2001 GRADE # 1-7 247 1-7 553 1-7 458 K-7 342 K-7 230 K-7 195 K-7 214 K-7 178 1-7 110 K-7 110 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) MONTESSORI PROGRAM YEAR 1998 1999 2000 2001 GRADE K-7 K-7 K-7 1-7 # 37 42 54 46 May 22, 1993 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Grade 7 class 1981 David Reid, teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Seymour Elementary EARLY STAFF Joyce Antonation Frank Hamilton Norma Holmberg Red Hooper Eleanor Jensen Lue Kernested Lorraine Knight Mary Ann Malgunas Helen Schroeder Evelyn Thorell PRINCIPALS Walter Philippsen Vic Mowbray Rob Watson Don Wilkins Bill Voth Al Hiebert Clint Buhr Vern Brown Jack Blair John Mackie VICE PRINCIPALS Seymour staff 1963-1964 Courtesy of Lorraine Knight, retired teacher Donna Preston INNOVATION From 1970-1976, with the support of the school principal, a very innovative team-teaching project began at Seymour Elementary. Two intermediate classroom teachers, Joyce Antonation and Joyce Short, partnered with the teacher-librarian, Lorraine Knight, to develop a teaching collaboration. There were 84 students in their two classrooms. The teachers began the first two months of the school year teaching all 84 students. As they became familiar with the students, they created a structured and an independent group. Students would begin the morning with both teachers and then separate into two groups. The structured group would remain in one of the classrooms while the independent groups would separate for study at communal tables with their group in the second classroom or in the library. Charts and job cards developed by the classroom teachers and the teacher-librarian provided direction for their assignments. Students were taught to work independently and how to use the library to locate information on their assignments, research projects and questions. The teacher-librarian focused on the students’ abilities to develop library research skills and independence while the classroom teachers took responsibility for working with student groups on their individual progress in writing and presentation skills. These groups had freedom to work together in the classroom, the library or the hallway. The only stipulation was that they could not leave the building. During specific periods of the day all students would come back together and one of the two teachers taught the entire group in a particular subject area (e.g. Social Studies, Science, PE, Art) while the other teacher acted as assistant. Every two months the independent groups would make a presentation on their projects to all the students followed by a new cycle of independent work topics. Seymour Elementary ACTIVITIES Seymour staff felt lucky to be located within walking distance of the art gallery, the public library, Fort George Park (now Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park), the Four Seasons Pool, the downtown fire hall, the YMCA and Vanier Hall at PGSS for field trips to expand the students’ knowledge and experience. Students were also taken to places further afield such as Barkerville, Ferndale Farm and Fort St. James. Barkerville 1990s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ferndale Farm 1990s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Children at Seymour were encouraged to be engaged in healthy leisure activities. Games and activities such as Four Square, Hop Scotch, cooperative games and skipping were taught in the classrooms and the gym and were promoted during outdoor breaks. In warm weather, various types of balls, hoops, and ropes were available to use for play outside. In the 1990s, Seymour held Art Showcases, Science Fairs and Earth Day celebrations. Skipping in the gym 1992 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Button Blanket display at Art Showcase 1990s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Seymour Elementary During winter months, there was a skating rink and snowshoeing. Often the majority of the children chose to spend time on Carney Hill. Student monitors supervised the signing out of crazy carpets at recess and lunch for students to use on what they considered their own personal sliding hill. Summer and winter, many members of the staff hula-hooped, skipped, played ball games and crazy carpeted with the students. Often at lunch there were whole school challenges such as: “How many crazy carpets can be linked together to go down Carney Hill?” or “Can we create a giant circle, with each student sitting in the lap of the student behind them?” These multi-age challenges were enthusiastically received and fostered cooperation and friendships across the grades. Elaborate Christmas concerts, with standing room only, and the occasional spring concerts were part of the Seymour culture. One year, the school put on the Mikado with classes involved in painting the sets. In 1986, in conjunction with the B.C. Festival of the Arts, Seymour had a dance festival of its own. Several classes, as well as classes from other schools, performed to a standing room only crowd. A visiting Simon Fraser University dance instructor said it was one of the best dance recitals that she had attended. One year the school organized a massive Christmas party for the whole school community with stations of Christmas crafts, cookie decorating, storytelling, ice skating, tobogganing, buffet tables of treats culminating with a sing-a-long and dance party in the gym. The whole school attended the Grand Opening Ceremonies of the Children’s Festival in May 1988. Before the first festival, Seymour students and staff spent time in the sun on the school field painting colourful pictures on donated white cotton sheets for the Festival Maze. At another, the students attended in the rain wearing green garbage bags. Seymour staff and students attended the Children’s Festival every year. In the spring, grade 6 teacher Phil Murphy and principal Clint Buhr organized interested students to go on ambitious bicycle rides to various landmarks throughout the city. Seymour staff 1987-1988 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Seymour Elementary SPORTS The school’s team name was the Seymour Sharks. During the 1980s, principal Clint Buhr would go cross-country running with the students before school every fall morning. The students also participated in cross-county runs hosted by various district schools. Cross-country running team 2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Seymour had school teams, both boys and girls, in volleyball, basketball and soccer. They also participated in the SD57 relays and track and field days at Massey Place/Masich Stadium. District Track and Field Day 1993 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The school also organized cooperative games sports days. Students at Massey Place Stadium 1993 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Seymour Elementary Did you Know? W ith an eager teaching staff, the first principal of the new school, Walter Philippsen, wanted to create a “sense of Seymour” for the students and hoped to nurture them by developing a school choir and drama club. D uring its 39 years, Seymour Elementary also welcomed and temporarily housed students from Malaspina Elementary awaiting the opening of their new school, SD 57 Area Support Teams, the Suzuki String Program (private), students from Ron Brent awaiting the completion of their school’s renovations and from 1998-2002 the Montessori Program. In 1998 Seymour Elementary housed three schools under one roof: Seymour, the Montessori Program and Ron Brent. T he use of Edward de Bono’s Thinking Skills was regular practice at Seymour. Students planning a noon hour Sock Hop, or helping plan for the annual Fun Day, or teachers organizing a Professional Development Day, often started with a brainstorming activity or a PMI (Plus/Minus/Interesting Points of the proposed idea). Debriefings took place both in the classroom and in the staff room. B M arb (McDonald) Burchert, former Seymour teacher, was an Action International Missionary serving in the Philippines from 1998-2016. any Seymour students went on to obtain university degrees and become community leaders. Dick Byl of Dick Byl Law, Dr. Catherine Hagen of UHNBC and Todd Jordan, UNBC Men’s Basketball Coach attended Seymour Elementary. F I ormer student Melinda Kent won the Spruce Kings Lottery Home in May 2017. n the 1980s, the principal Clint Buhr encouraged the teacher-librarian to pursue training in Instructional Theory into Practice, a positive, sequential teaching model developed by U.S. educator Madeline Hunter. Master Teaching Skills were shared with staff at monthly meetings and successfully implemented with students. M any students went home for lunch but a lunch hallway was established where children of mixed age groups could eat together in the family groupings of their choice. They even made special place mats for themselves. Having the students all in one place allowed for easier supervision than if they had been in closed classrooms. I n 1988 CANFOR, as part of their 50th Anniversary celebrations, sponsored grade 2 teacher, Maggee Spicer, and teacher-librarian, Kathie Hilder, along with three other members of the The Storytellers Roundtable to tour eleven local schools to perform Storytelling Shows. With the sponsorship of SD 57 this same group performed at every Children’s Festival. Seymour Elementary Memories When Seymour Elementary opened in September 1963, the new staff members were very aware of the high academic expectations of the incoming surge of professional parents and families arriving in Prince George. As was standard practice at the time, teachers would teach two or three lessons at different ability levels in the core subjects to ensure student comprehension. There were no Special Education classes. Students had to learn quickly to be independent and teachers took pride in their students’ honesty when marking and correcting together as a class. I originally taught grade 4/5 but became the first teacherlibrarian at Seymour and pursued studies in teacher-librarianship at UBC. Lorraine Knight 2017, retired teacher One of the things I really appreciated during my early years at Seymour was the stable and consistent population of the community. If a family had five children, you would teach all five children and were able to develop a long-term relationship with the parents and the whole family. There were so few transfers. By the time I retired from Seymour twenty years later some of my students were only registered in the class for six months before they moved to another area. When I began teaching, we had to start each school day with a Ministry-mandated Bible Reading. The reading could contain as many as 20 verses. As I read to the students and became aware that their attention span was waning, I knew that it was time, finished or not, to bring the reading to a close. Lue Kernested 2017, retired teacher My years at Seymour from 1979-1990 are full of joy! We had a dedicated, energetic, hardworking staff that did everything possible to create an exciting learning environment for students. The staff consisted of the principal, secretary, classroom teachers, a learning assistant teacher, a teacher-librarian and library clerk, an enrichment teacher, a school counsellor, a native support worker and the school district itinerant team. I absolutely loved our lively, enthusiastic students and caring, supportive parents. Our families came from a wide variety of socio-economic backgrounds and we were all so proud of the school-wide attitude of inclusiveness and respect that students and the whole school community regularly demonstrated toward one another. As the teacher-librarian, enrichment teacher and grade 7 French teacher, I remember story-time lessons and classes with K-3, collaborative teaching with the classroom teachers to teach research and report writing skills to grades 2-7, storytelling workshops, library Halloween Spooktaculars complete with ghost stories, candles, ghoulish music and dry ice to create cauldron smoke, and organizing a Fairy Tale Ball with the grade 2 teacher, Maggee Spicer, to celebrate the culmination of our Fairy Tale research unit. The library and the whole school adopted children’s author Richard Thompson, Maggee Spicer’s husband, as our very own Author-in-Residence. The library was open every day at lunch and after school and the Seymour Elementary Library Club were enthusiastic helpers. Our Library Club luncheons and parties were library games and feasts! We even had year-end camp outs and sleepover parties at my house complete with pizza, treats, videos, games, no real sleep and bacon, eggs and pancake breakfasts! One traumatizing library moment was having the Kindergarten class for their first time in the library by themselves when the fire alarm went off. I tried to keep them calm while I had to find another escape route when the Fire Department blocked our school library exit with smoke. We all survived but not without some tears. Challenging projects included spending hours preparing the library for computer automation and attempting, with three days’ notification, to move the entire library collection into the hallway to make way for re-carpeting. Library Club 1980s Courtesy of Kathie Hilder, retired teacher-librarian and principal Storytime class in early 1980s Courtesy of Kathie Hilder, retired teacher-librarian and principal In my role as the French teacher, I assigned our grade 7 students, with my support, the project of designing and setting up a French café, creating French menus, dressing as French waiters and waitresses, sending invitations in French to all the classes and then greeting the classes and serving them completely in French. They chose a menu of café au lait, croissants, confiture de fraises and fruits frais. One of a multitude of humourous memories was watching Barb (McDonald) Burchert’s grade 3 classroom pet hamster determinedly rolling down our wing’s long hallway in his exercise ball apparently on his way to the office. Seymour…I loved the fabulous students, staff and parents and have nothing but precious memories of magical, happy days! Kathie Hilder 2017, retired teacher-librarian and principal One year, Joan Vogt and I who job-shared, took our grade 3 class on a field trip to Fort George Park (now Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park). Spring had been very wet and, unfortunately, we had not walked the trail by Hudson’s Bay Slough beforehand. We were unprepared (and had not prepared the children) for the puddles they would have to wade through. The first series of puddles were only up to our ankles and everyone thought it was fun; the second set was a little deeper, a little wider. Though many of the children thought this a great adventure, some were not having quite such a good time and, by the next Seymour Elementary puddle that could have been described as a small lake complete with floating dead frogs, several children dug in their heels. As teachers, we felt too committed to turn back – the park was only 10 minutes away – and encouraged, cajoled and eventually even carried some of the children through that last puddle. Despite the refusals and some tears they all made it safely to higher ground and had a wonderful day in the park. Needless to say, a different route back to the school was chosen for the return hike. Maggee Spicer 2017, retired teacher I was hired to teach at Seymour in 1990. I was excited to be in a new position at the time when the Year 2000 program was being introduced to the Primary Classes. Our primary staff was eager to try the new philosophy with the children. Many staff meetings were held and we jumped in with both feet! It gave us reasons to get to know each other well and share in the changes with a positive outlook. The primary staff often worked together organizing special events for their students. My class worked on a Peter Rabbit operetta one year that was very successful and brings back many good memories of parent assistance and cooperation. Another event of exception was a winter project done by the 3rd year class. They researched northern activities of the Inuit culture and modified the games for us in the gym for an afternoon of fun. Like most schools at that time, we had regular assemblies and events such as Fun Night, Sports Day, and hot dog sales. The primary classes partnered on projects with intermediate classes with the help of their Big Buddies. Computers were new in classrooms for teachers and pupils. There were one or two Apple IIe computers in most classrooms and teachers were learning along with the students. Often professional development days were spent learning something new about these electronic additions to our classrooms. The best part of my job was, of course, dealing with 5 year olds. They were (and still are in my opinion) wonderful, honest, loving, and very adventuresome characters. As a rule I find they are eager to please and so very trusting. Seymour was and still is the neighbourhood where I choose to live. We bought our home in 1974 so that our sons could attend Seymour School. What a wise choice it was! Sandy Moseley 2017, retired teacher One of my many fond memories of my time teaching at Seymour was our year-end K-3 Primary Picnic. We would usually walk the pathway to Fort George Park (now Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park). One particular year it poured rain. No, we did not stop or cancel the event–our school, students, staff and community helpers were a hardy, innovative and creative bunch. We just raided the custodian’s room and made several rain ponchos out of black plastic garbage bags. What a sight we were and I felt like the Pied Piper, as we wound our way down the path to the park. We had a great day!! We all worked hard, played hard and had many memorable celebrations. Christmas concerts were major productions and having a science fair was a big event for many years. We hosted many colleagues, staff and parents to judge our work and enjoy our projects. Cheryl Straub 2017, retired teacher Seymour Elementary Seymour was all so really great, the best times of my life. I remember having a camping sleepover party at our lovely teacher-librarian’s (Kathie Hilder) home for being library helpers. Dave Reid, my grade 7 teacher, took the class on a year-end camping trip which was so much fun. He also awarded a Student of the Month and took each recipient for lunch at Shakey’s Pizza Parlour. I also enjoyed the very big deal made of Christmas concerts and the ribbons and concession at Sports Days. Allyson Dornbierer 2017, former student I have many great memories of my years at Seymour in the 1980’s. I remember Mrs. Macdonald (now Burchert) playing her guitar and singing to us every day in grade 3. If I was lucky enough to stay for lunch, I could sit on the floor in the hallway, with special placemats, to eat my lunch. I remember Mr. Reid slamming his metre stick on desks to get our attention. My mother, Peggy Dornbierer, was an amazing volunteer and she and my dad hosted my grade 7 class BBQ in our backyard. Mr. Buhr spilled non-alcoholic champagne down his shirt and then went to a meeting at the district office smelling “questionable”. Michelle Dornbierer-Lachapelle 2017, former student Tha n Eric k You car SD 5 Lecle df r 7 Ed ucat c 2002 rom p ion H rin erita ge C ollec tion cipa l School Closure announcement 2002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection L ’Ec Cou ole fra rtesy of K nco-n athie o Hild rd 20 er, r etire 17 d tea ch Seymour School was reassigned and reopened as L’École franco-nord, part of School District 93. er-lib raria n an d pr incip al Shady Valley Elementary 6144 Old Summit Lake Road, Prince George 1956-2010 “Be the best you can be!” Mission Statement Shady Valley School’s mission is to create an atmosphere which will enable children to develop their individual potential and to acquire the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for success now and in the future. Shady Valley Elementary 1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History Shady Valley Elementary School began its existence on Old Summit Lake Road as a one-room portable in September 1956 (before that children in this area attended Fraser Flats Elementary). The proposed name of McMillan Creek School did not receive government approval so the first teacher, Mrs. Shockey, held a contest to name the school. Shady Valley was the name selected and on December 28, 1956 Shady Valley Elementary School became official. The one-room portable was a pale-white basic building with windows along the south side that was covered by a large tin roof. Behind the building were two outhouses, a pump house and a storage shed. When the school started there were approximately 18 students in grades 1 through 6. Mrs. Shockey taught all the grades. A second portable classroom was moved to Shady Valley in the summer of 1958. The two portables were joined together and in addition to the two classrooms there was now an office, a mudroom, a furnace room and indoor washrooms that were shared by the staff and students. The school now housed between 40 to 60 students and had both a primary and intermediate classroom with a teacher for each. Shady Valley Elementary By 1963 a third portable (called the Annex) was added to the school site. A boardwalk joined the Annex to the main school building. Grades 5/6 were located in the south end of the main building and grades 1/2 and grades 3/4 alternated between the north end of the main building and the Annex. Shady Valley stayed as a three-room school from 1963-1979. Mr. Bell was the principal for twelve of those years. During this time, the grade 7’s and later Kindergarten attended Hart Highway Elementary School. Between 1965-1969, due to overcrowding, the grade 3’s were sent to Hart Highway Elementary and they remained there until they completed grade 7. Shady Valley Elementary circa 1950s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Throughout the 1970s, the community continued to grow and a larger facility was needed. In June 1979, the original Shady Valley Elementary was closed and the buildings were sold to the Myatovic family. The three portables became storage sheds for ‘good farm junk’. The new building opened in the fall of 1979. It was also located on Old Summit Lake Road, one kilometer from the old site. This modern, spacious building included a gym, a library, a seminar room, various storage rooms, a kitchen, and a staff washroom in addition to the classrooms. Now, kindergarten through grade 7 could all attend the new school. Periodically, during times of budget shortfalls, there was talk of closing the school. For most of the 2000s the grade 7 students attended Heather Park Middle School. Sadly, Shady Valley Elementary School was closed permanently in June 2010 and this was a loss felt by the entire community. Students were transferred to Glenview Elementary school. Shady Valley Elementary ENROLLMENT YEAR 1956 1961 1963 1964 1968 1973 1978 1983 1988 1993 1998 1999 2001 2007 2009 GRADE # 1-6 18 1-7 60 K-6 76 1-6 79 1-5 64 1-6 85 1-6 50 K-7 67 K-7 87 K-7 76 K-7 107 K-6 83 K-5 89 K-6 48 K-6 22 School photo of all grades - late 1950s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) PRINCIPALS Charlie Bell Leigh Erwin Lorne Brown Orville Brown Donna Dojack John McGladdery Dave Friesen Barb Osten Rob Howardson Luc St. Denis Anne Smith Deanna Hood Grade 2/3 class photo 1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Shady Valley Elementary EARLY STAFF 1967-1979 Mrs. Shockey Mr. M.B. Tuckey Mrs. P. Riches Mr. Colin Scott Mrs. Rost Mrs. Alfreda Scott Mr. Miller Miss Pat Helme Mrs. Shirley Carriere Mr. Dale Clippingdale Mrs. Denise (Van Megroet) Goodkey Mr. Pelling Mrs. Violet Froese Miss Wilcox Mr. Charlie Bell Miss Knott Shady Valley staff 2003 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Miss Janzen Mrs. Marion Dyer Mrs. Marie (Elsenheimer) Lorenz Miss Gillian Lancaster Mrs. Lorna (Rempel) Jones Mrs. Sue Hallum Mr. Dave Hogan Mrs. Shirley Revel Mrs. Audrey Dean Cannon Mrs. Mary Anne Poetsch Mr. Leigh Erwin Shady Valley Elementary Did You Know? I n the summer of 1989 Shady Valley Elementary hosted a reunion for current and former teachers, principals, students and parents. Approximately 350 people attended this three- day event that was held from August 4-6. The celebration included a wine and cheese party, a dinner-dance and an old-fashioned family picnic. Former principal Charlie Bell and former teachers Colin Scott and Denise Goodkey were part of this special occasion. Attendees at Shady Valley Elementary Reunion 1989 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I n 1988-89, the Shady Valley History Club, comprised of eight students under the direction of teacher Marie Lorenz, collected information about the history of the school and its community 0 200 ogram Valley r y P d y a r Sh rsa ction nnive e Colle 20th A ucation Heritag d SD 57 E I through research, interviews and questionnaires. The historical booklet “Shady Valley: The Changing Times” was the result of their efforts. They received a $1900 grant from School District 57 to help with this project. The booklet was sold at the reunion that summer. n May 2000 past and present staff, students and parents gathered together to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the ‘new’ Shady Valley School. Close to one hundred people assembled in the gym to share their memories of the rural school’s first two decades. The gym was filled with mementos of the school’s history. Some of the students entertained the guests with singing and square dancing. Teacher Marie Lorenz recalled the excitement of moving from the old three-room school to the spacious, brand new school. Other teachers spoke highly of the school and the community in which it is situated. Lorraine Harding said, “It’s a very strong community, and it’s a sweet little school.” Special guests included school trustee Bev Christensen. Shady Valley Elementary O n March 27, 1987 Rick Hansen rolled into Prince George on the last leg of his two-year ‘Man in Motion’ World Tour that ended in Vancouver in May 1987. Shady Valley Elementary was one of the schools that welcomed Rick Hansen to Prince George. Colin Kinsley, chairman of the Prince George Man in Motion committee, asked everyone to wear a yellow ribbon to show support for Rick Hansen who was raising funds for spinal research, rehabilitation programs and wheelchair sports. During his four-day visit, Rick Hansen attended a rally, made minor hockey presentations and dedicated the Kinsmen’s gymnasium to wheelchair sports. He was also made an honorary member of the Titan wheelchair basketball team. The School Down the Road The School down the road is called Shady Valley It’s nestled in the forest where the bluebells sing, Where people are so kind, the valley rings with laughter And we all love to go to the school down the road. Rick Hansen’s visit to Prince George 1987 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I n 2007-2008 Shady Valley Elementary held a songwriting workshop. Lowry Olafson, a Canadian singer and songwriter, facilitated this songwriting class. Lowry Olafson’s workshop ‘From the Page to the Stage in One Day!’ is a three-hour class for up to 35 students. During this time students were given the opportunity to co-write a song. As part of Lowry Olafson’s visit, the school had a concert where the songwriting class performed their song ‘The School Down The school down the road is like a tiny treasure Where everybody knows you and we keep each other safe, Where all the kids are learning, and everyone is growing And it feels just like home at the school down the road. Bridge: Where smiles are contagious And every day is new Where everyone is welcome And so are you! Repeat verse 1 The Road’ for the whole school. The songwriting students also taught their song to the rest of the students. D uring its last decade Shady Valley Elementary forged a strong partnership with the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation in order for its young members to feel that school was a safe place. Elders and a SD 57 Aboriginal worker set up—inclusive for all students— Carrier dialect language classes, a drumming group, a lunch club, and even a Potlatch. The whole school was bussed to Shelley, where each child received a fish and then learned about filleting and smoking them, before enjoying a traditional feast. Shady Valley Elementary SPORTS The school’s teams were called the Shady Valley Shadows. Shady Valley Shadows banner (date unknown) SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Shady Valley hoodie & T-shirt (date unknown) SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Throughout the years, Shady Valley Elementary students participated in various sports. These included crosscountry running, Jump Rope for Heart, the Terry Fox Run, track and field, gymnastics and swimming. Winter sports, like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, skating and hockey, were also enjoyed by the students. At times the school even had its own outdoor skating rink. Track and Field Meet at Massey Place 1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Shady Valley outdoor ice rink 1987 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Shady Valley Sports Day 2010 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The school year usually culminated with Sports Day, an event that promoted athleticism, sportsmanship and fun. Shady Valley Elementary ACTIVITIES A wide variety of activities were enjoyed by the students at Shady Valley Elementary. Theme Days, such as Beach Day, Pajama Day and Wacky Hair Day, were always a highlight. Numerous field trips were arranged over the years including trips to the Bar K Ranch, the Willow River Heritage Trails, the Railway Museum and Huble Homestead. There was even a trip to the Bennett Dam in 1975. Beach Day 2002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Celebrations for special occasions, like Halloween, Christmas, Earth Day and Aboriginal Day, were a big part of school life. Students also participated in Science Fairs, Talent Shows and Winter Fun Days. Problem solving challenges included building bridges and other types of structures. Trip to Bar K Ranch 2010 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Problem Solving Challenge 1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Music was important at Shady Valley and the options included being in a choir, a stage presentation or learning the recorder and ukulele. Christmas Concert 1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Memories Shady Valley Elementary I taught at Shady Valley from 1982 to 2003. It was a school filled with enthusiasm, a deep caring for children and a “nothing is too much effort” attitude. Parent participation was generous and warmly welcomed. They added so much to what was accomplished at our small school, supporting the staff at sport days, concerts, and special events in classrooms, field trips and fund-raisers like the cake auction. You mentioned what you needed and they helped you do it. In sports, participation was our main goal. In September the whole school had P.E. together twice a week for cross-country running practice. It was so much more fun having lots of people to run with. Many of the students then enjoyed running in after-school cross-country meets at other schools. Shady Valley had a long tradition of wonderful Christmas concerts. Grandparents, parents and past students eagerly attended. Each class did a performance and the variety and skill of original plays, dances, skits, and choirs was amazing. However, as good as all the performances were it was a given that the K/1 class would steal the show. One year was especially memorable. Ms. McDonald’s K/1 class was doing a nativity scene with dolls dressed as angels suspended above the stage. The air vents were strong enough to flip up an angel’s dress. Ms. McDonald didn’t miss a beat but the audience was mesmerized as the bare bottomed angel slowly twirled above their heads. The school had fewer than 100 students so on the playground it was common to see multi-age groups enjoying soccer, playing on the climbing apparatus or building elaborate snow forts in the winter. We had an impressive sliding hill in the winter that could only be used with a Crazy Carpet. It was very busy during recess and lunch and the older ones encouraged and taught the younger students. Many returning students remember the Root People art projects that my grade 4/5 class made and the great year end field trips organized by Mrs. McGraw for her 6/7 students. Our school had a wonderful, supportive community. Barb Osten built connections with the Lheidli T’enneh at Shelley and we were pleased to welcome them to our school. The elders joined us for First Nation Days, Grandparent teas, monthly assemblies and helped with team sports. Another important event was the year-end Thank-You Tea. The tea grew from a small gathering in the library to a full gym event with great decorations, food and entertainment. Everyone, from grandparents to past students, came to say hello and be thanked by the staff. Renate Dorschner 2015, retired teacher Shady Valley Elementary When the new school opened in 1979, it had an inside gym and staff washrooms and it was like right uptown! As in similar small schools everyone did everything, from swim lessons to cross-country running to Christmas concerts. The quantity of activities was limited but participation was 100%. Field trips were varied. Train trips to Quesnel, a van adventure to Victoria with the complete class of grade 7 students, all girls and three of them named Dayna, and sleigh rides (mostly in the rain). An ambitious bus trip in 1975 included all the grade 4, 5 and 6 students. Heading north the first tour was of Sukunka coal mine out of Chetwynd. The cooks then welcomed this hungry mob for a snack and the kids didn’t disappoint by stuffing their bellies and pockets. By late evening the crew was let loose at Hudson Hope elementary. While the parent volunteers cooked dinner in the school kitchen the wild kids took over the playground and made their presence known! Soon the neighbours made their objections. That night we all slept on the octagonal-shaped gym floor. The only one who actually slept was the bus driver because he opted for a hotel. The following day’s excursion included the Williston Dam and the power house. The bus ride home was an endurance test. Everyone was filthy, tired and crabby, thankful when the trip was over at eleven that night. A lot was crammed into two days. One of my most memorable class activities was The Dinosaur Dig. The lead up to this project was the collection of bleached cow bones from the bush, my kitchen and a generous taxidermist. The bones were de-fleshed and decontaminated to be ready for burial in the school garden. On the day of the DIG the students arrived with spoons, shovels and even toothbrushes. A grid was staked and roles assigned including draft person, worker, palaeontologist, recorder and assembly person. The class was so excited! Shrieks of “I found a T-Rex ankle bone”, “Here’s his jaw bone”, “Look, an empty eye socket” were heard. The assembly people laid the skeleton out, a third of the length of the school. What a conglomeration! Could only happen in our schoolyard. What fun!! Needless to say the raw materials for this project are not stored in my basement. The school closed in June 2004. Now it is neatly boarded up! What a waste. Marie Lorenz 2015, retired teacher Marie Lorenz Award 2005 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Shelley Elementary 1923-1965 Location Shelley Elementary School was located on Shelley Road off Highway 16 East, 15 km northeast of Prince George on the Fraser River and Mile 134 on the CN Railway. Shelley School 1940 Exploration Place P996.3.23 History Shelley was a one-room rural school. Many of the parents of the students in this school were employees of Shelley Sawmills, built in 1923 by local railway contractor and logger Sinclair McLean. The community was named by the CNR. The sawmill operated under several different owners until the early 1970’s. The first teacher was Mrs. Edith (Emmet) Austin in 1923-1924. She returned to teach in Shelley School from 1953 to 1959. In the 1930’s, there were often over forty students attending the school with only one teacher and grades 1-8. The district provided a teacherage in the early 1950’s. Before that time, teachers boarded with people in the community. In September 1963, the board had difficulty finding a teacher and 33 students were temporarily bussed to Fraserview and other schools in the Prince George area. When the school finally closed in 1965, the principal/teacher was Mr. J. Polmark. The Prince George School Board sold the 1.77 acre site for $7500 in the 1970’s. Shelley Elementary EArly Staff enrollment y ear 1945 1947 1949 1951 1953 1955 1957 1959 1961 1964 grad e # 1-7 15 1-8 28 1-8 18 1-8 22 1-7 23 1-8 21 1-8 15 2-7 21 1-8 26 1-8 24 Source: Public Schools A nnual R eport (s) Mrs. Edith Emmet Miss Helen Kraker Miss B. A . Hillis Miss Thelma A . Tittemore E. E. Hyndman H.F. Berry F.G . Cook Miss Peggy Murdoch Miss M. Boeur Miss M. E. D uke Miss Jeanette M. G reen Miss A lice Ives E. Cameron Miss D oreen Fraser Miss Phyllis G . Marshall Margaret (Bulloch) Schweda Mile 134 Camp Cook House Miss M.E. Duke, Shelley teacher Exploration Place P996.3.17 Shelley Elementary Did You Know? H elen McLean from Shelley was elected as a rural representative to the newly amalgamated Prince George and District School Board in 1946. I n the early 1950’s, a teacher from Shelley and a teacher from Willow River re- signed probationary teaching appointments in December. R. G. Williston, the Prince George Inspector of Schools, did not accept their resignations. The Shelley teacher left the school two days early and completed her register to show attendance to end of the term. On her December monthly report, she indicated her absence but noted that school had been in session. Both teachers did not show up for duty in January. Their conduct was reported to the BCTF. in a letter to the provincial register of the Department of Education, Williston stated: I am not sorry to lose the girls nor are the communities in which they were working, but, I would hate to see another School District and two groups of youngsters suffer because two irresponsible, immature young people decided to return to the field of education for such time as it suited their pleasure and convenience. Advertisement Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen November 3, 1952 S ome of the students that attended Shelley School came from across the Fraser River either by boat or, in the winter, by walking across the ice. School busses did not exist in the area at this time. There was a reasonable amount of absence in the spring when it sometimes became difficult to cross the river. Shelley Elementary The community had a column in the Prince G eorge Citizen newspaper labeled “SHELLEY ” or “SHELLEY NEWS” from the 1920’s to the 1960’s. Local gossip, community travel plans, social occasions and school events were reported on a weekly basis. Some sample school related reports appear below: The new school board held its first meeting last night: all members being present. Alex Wimbles was elected chairman of the board, and Geo. S. Porter was continued in the office of secretary. January 21, 1926 The children’s Junior Red Cross Society of the Shelley School held a bridge, bingo and dance at the schoolhouse on Saturday night. The party was very successful and grossed over $20. October 10, 1940 A rubber scrap depot has been established at the post office, and the school children have gathered a supply of old tires and other articles. The cook at the sawmill donated two sacks of old rubber shoes. June 4, 1942 Shelley school children held a bazaar at the school last week which netted $33.78. Most of the articles were made by the children. Of the proceeds, $10 was sent to the Crippled Children’s Fund and $22 was forwarded to the Junior Red Cross. April 13, 1944 H. Bailey, maintenance man for the District 57 School Board, has spent several days in Shelley School on repairs and renovating. October 24, 1946 Roy Stibbs, school inspector, visited Shelley School last week. He was accompanied by Mrs. Stibbs and their young son who called on friends in the neighborhood. June 5, 1947 Shelley Elementary Shelley School Board Minutes 1924-1945 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Shelley Elementary Memories In 1949, my schoolhouse consisted of a one room framed building that housed everything I would need to teach. Four rows of desks, a blackboard and a desk for me. Indoor plumbing didn’t exist and when someone needed “to go”, it could easily involve a student needing to get bundled up for the quick trip to the outhouse. Especially in the winter months, the trips were very fast, as some days the temperature outside could be in the – 50 degree range. Teaching in Shelley was so much more than just “teaching”. I had to keep the wood stove burning, be the lunch time monitor, keep the doorway clear of ice and snow, as well as do my best to keep the students focused on their respective tasks of the day. A typical day of classes for me involved the everyday dealings of trying to balance my time and efforts between all the different grades in my charge. One minute I’d be showing a grade 1 student his or her ABC’s and the next minute I’d be needed to help a grade seven or eight student solve a complex math problem. One of my responsibilities to my kids was to make sure they all stayed safe while in my school. This was something I took very seriously and, especially when it came to the required fire drills, we would practice. The wood stove was located very close to the only door in and out of the school-house and I often thought of what could, or might, happen in the event of a fire breaking out caused by this stove. It could effectively block our only means of escape from the building. I devised what I called a perfect plan. Upon me blowing a whistle, which indicated “fire”, my older and bigger boys were to station themselves at a predesignated window. The rest of the kids would line up at their assigned windows and the bigger boys would toss them out into the snow, thus completing the successful evacuation of the building. This proved to be a most humourous and fun event for all the kids and it gave me peace of mind to know that we all could get out safely if needed. Margaret (Bulloch) Schweda 2012, retired teacher Supplying Fuel 1946 Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen November 17, 1946 Shere Elementary 1935-1939 Location The hamlet of Shere was 260 km east of Prince George; 76 km southeast of McBride. Its station was between Croydon and Tete Jaune on the south side of the Fraser River, along the CNR line. History Shere, at first a railway construction camp, was named by a Grand Trunk Pacific Railroad official after a town in Surrey, England. A number of GTP stations were named after English towns as suggested by Josiah Wedgwood, of the famous English pottery family, at the request of H.P. Hutton, general manager of the railway. The location was a tricky one as slides and washouts were prevalent due to the unstable clay on the bank. A trestle bridge was built to keep the track usable, but the continuing slippage often meant maintenace crews had to be brought in from other areas. In 1922 the Etter & McDougal Lumber Company established a sawmill at Shere and eventually the families of loggers and sawmill workers established a small community. By 1933 thirteen children were residents and so Mr. H. Harrison, chair of the new school district, petitioned the Department of Education for a school at Shere. They had a suitable building and a reaction ferry to transport north-side students to school. In exasperation, after a year of no results, Otto Bruning, a resident and the local ferry operator, wrote a letter to the editor of the Vancouver Daily Province explaining their plight. Miss Peggy Egger, of Nanaimo, a newly trained teacher in search of a position, read the plea and agreed to come and teach. This prompted the government to give official status for a school and provide suitable furnishings. The community was grateful to Miss Marguerite Mary (Peggy) Egger whose involvement hastened the launch of the school. In fact, she was the only teacher in Shere School’s existence, 1935–1939. The sawmill was profitable until the 1930’s when economic markets fell due to the Great Depression. After the mill ceased operations many workers left and the school was closed. George and Edith French operated the little store and post office and also took in boarders. Peggy Egger stayed with them for her entire four-year teaching assignment at Shere. George French’s seven-room house, plus woodshed, smithy, stable, hayshed, pig sty and store Yellowhead Pass and Its People. Valemount Historic Society, 1984. Shere Elementary Accounts: Miss Egger spent $1.62 on stamps, December 8, 1937. Myrtle Austin, janitor 1938-1939, was paid $3.00 a month. Miss M. M. Egger was paid $84 salary, October 1, 1938–June 30, 1939. Annual Picnic Held at Tete Jaune Valemount: (Special)— Weather conditions were ideal Sunday, June 19, for the annual picnic and sports day in which Valemount, Red Pass, Tete Jaune and Shere combined. Trucks left Valemount at 9:30 a.m. to convey the youngsters 16 miles to A. J. Sathers’ ranch at Tete Jaune–a beautiful spot on the banks of the mighty Fraser. In the children’s races Walter Askin and Nick Kalawalchuk of Valemount were awarded prizes in their classes. The dinner gong sounded soon after noon and the teachers of the various districts, assisted by some of the women, were kept busy for two or three hours serving salads, sandwiches, cakes, cookies, tea and coffee to about 300. During the afternoon ball games were played, the chief being that between Red Pass and Valemount. It was a good game and well played, the honors going to Red Pass. After a substantial supper, the picnickers, tired but happy, went home, all hoping for another reunion next year. June 30, 1938 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Voters’ List 1937 Tete Jaune Polling Division 3050 Boddy, Ross; Shere, farmer 3051 Bruning, Otto Herman; Shere, peasant 3052 Christian, Annie; Shere, housewife 3053 Clark, George; Shere, planerman 3054 Cosgrove, Edward; sawyer 3055 Egger, Marguerite Mary; Shere, schoolteacher 3056 Etter, Annie M; Shere, housewife 3057 Etter, Grace; Shere, spinster 3058 Eyre, Arthur H.; Shere, section foreman 3059 French, Edith M.; Shere, housewife 3060 French, George W.; Shere, clerk 3061 French, Priscilla; Shere, spinster 3062 Hicks, Leo Dominic; Shere, farmer 3063 Hinchlitts, Chas.; Shere, labourer 3064 Jackson, John Leonard; Shere, labourer 3065 Kawaltlak, Michael; Shere, section foreman 3066 Kawchak, Peter; Shere, sectionman 3067 Keefe, Victoria; Shere, housewife 3068 Luciuk, J.; Shere, sectionman 3069 McCaffery, Leo; Shere, labourer 3070 McDougall, Alexander; Shere, ret’d lumberman 3071 McDougall, Mary Irene; Shere, spinster 3072 McGuire, James; Shere, farmer 3073 MacLean, Hector; Shere, fireman 3074 McMillan, Armita Belle; Shere, housewife 3075 Miller, James A.; Shere, bushman 3076 Olson, John; Shere, farmer 3077 Pleasants, W. T.; Shere, farmer 3078 Pleasants, Walter; Shere, farmer 3079 Ramsay, Allan; Shere, farmer 3080 Sampson, Jack; Shere, logger 3081 Turner, George Stanley; Shere, labourer 3082 Wilson, Donald; Shere, farmer Yellowhead Pass and Its People. Valemount Historic Society, 1984. Sinclair Mills Elementary 1926-1984 LOCATION The school was located 70 km east of Prince George on the north side of the Fraser River on the CN Railway. HISTORY Sincl air M ill s E lem ent a ry 198 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The Sinclair Mills community was named after F. N. Sinclair, a Grand Trunk Railway construction engineer. The first one-room school was built in 1926. The first teacher was Ruth W. Copeland. A new two-room school was built in 1948 and the old one was sold to the Frenkel family who moved it to a property 1 km east of the town site. With the addition of a porch, it became their home and is still standing and in use. Fre nk el Hom e 1 953 Courtesy of Wally (Frenkel) Merritt, former student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Two classrooms were used for several years until the enrollment declined in the 1960’s and only one of the rooms was needed as a classroom. The second room served as a gymnasium and a seminar room for reading with volunteer parents. The highest enrollment was 51 students in 1951 and when the school closed in 1984, there were only 8 students enrolled. Ralph Newman was the principal and teacher when the school closed. Sinclair Mills Elementary ENROLLME N T YEAR 1945 1950 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1984 GRADE # 1-8 33 1-8 41 1-8 39 1-8 42 1-7 38 1-6 15 1-7 17 1-7 10 1-7 8 S in c l a ir Mi l l s C la s s 1 9 4 9 Courtesy of Wally (Frenkel) Merritt, former student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) S in c l a ir Mi l l s C la s s Di v i si o n I 1 9 7 8 Courtesy of Allan Douglas, teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection E A R LY S TA F F 1926-1952 Miss Ruth W. Copeland Miss Eunice O. Huskins Miss Eleanor Ormrod Miss R.F.F. Patenaude Miss Frances G. Novak Miss A. Nichols Mrs. M. Ulmers Miss Eva Zunti Mrs. H. McRae Miss E.M. Long Mr. M.R. Bunt Mrs. Josephine Ketter Miss McArran Mrs. Charlotte Benton Mr. Harold Bates Mrs. Erma E. Rabourn Miss P.M. Bartle Miss Alice Homewood Mrs. Ella Cannon Sinclair Mills Elementary Did You Know? T I HE SINCLAIR MILLS’ PTA SUPPLIED THE PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT AS THEIR 1945 PROJECT. N THE 1950’S, A SINCLAIR MILLS COLUMN APPEARED IN THE CITIZEN NEWSPAPER THAT RE- PORTED ON EVENTS HAPPENING AT THE SCHOOL AND IN THE COMMUNITY. LATER ON, IN THE 1950’S, THERE WAS A WILLOW RIVER COLUMN IN THE CITIZEN THAT REPORTED ON BOTH COMMUNITIES. S INCLAIR SPRUCE LUMBER CO. SUPPLIED THE FUEL FOR THE ORIGINAL WOOD STOVE. THE STOVE WAS LATER REPLACED BY A COAL FURNACE AND ONE OF THE TEACHER’S TASKS WAS TO “STOKE THE BOILER” WITH SHOVELS OF COAL. I N THE 1940’S, PAYMENTS FOR TEACHERS FROM THE PROVINCIAL DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION WERE MADE QUARTERLY—IN SEPTEMBER, DECEMBER, MARCH AND JUNE. THE SALARIES RANGED FROM $51.90 TO $75.20 A MONTH. E ARLY ACCESS TO THE COMMUNITY WAS VIA AN ICE BRIDGE ACROSS THE FRASER IN WINTER AND A PLANKED RAILWAY BRIDGE IN SUMMER, AS THE ROAD RAN ALONG THE SOUTH SIDE OF THE RIVER. IN THE MID 1960’S, TEACHER PAT SEXSMITH RECALLS CROSSING THE FRASER ON THE FERRY AT HANSARD AND DRIVING SEVERAL “MUDDY” MILES TO SINCLAIR MILLS. THE TRAIN WAS THE USUAL MODE OF TRANSPORTATION TO PRINCE GEORGE. SINCLAIR MILLS Crippled children benefitted by $40 as a result of the program and dance put on by the Sinclair Mills school children on Saturday. Music was supplied by Mrs. R. Ketter, Jim Gibson, Steve Gaal, Mrs. Barbedu and Wilf Drader. High school students have now returned to their homes for the summer. Road conditions from Sinclair Mills to Prince George are improving- state several residents of the district who motored in last weekend. June 30, 1949 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Re d Cr os s Gi r l s a t Si n c la i r Mi l ls 1 935 The Exploration Place 2003.13.8 Sinclair Mills Elementary Memories When we went out to Sinclair Mills we worked the day there and usually I stayed overnight with the Anderson family. Then I caught the way freight on the Tuesday afternoon back into town. That was the meat train from Edmonton, so they stopped at every single blade of grass on the way into town, dropping meat off and, if they missed a blade of grass, they backed up. You never knew when you were going to get into town. It might be seven in the evening. You had a choice of doing it that way or coming out Monday morning on the train, spending the day working at the school, and then you could catch the train back home that came through Sinclair at two in the morning. What you did was go down to the train station and, when you heard the train coming, you took a lantern that was hanging inside the cupboard area, lit the lantern and went out and waved it up and down. Nobody was around, so the train would stop. You’d blow out the light, hang it up, get on the train and come in that way. Kelly La Voie, primary consultant 1960’s. An Interview with Margaret Clark & Kelly La Voie. RTA Oral History, 2003. I attended Sinclair Mills from September 1965 to 1970. There was no kindergarten in the school; in fact I never even heard the word until grade 6 when I moved to Blackburn Elementary. When I was in grade one, there were two rooms in the school, but from grade 2-6, it was only a one-room school. If the teacher was really sick, it was a day off school. I can remember one year when we didn’t even get a teacher until near the end of September or early October. Then he was gone shortly after that and we had another break before a new teacher came. Recess and lunch supervision was nonexistent. We played with sticks, in the bushes and climbed trees. If anyone got hurt, you would run to the A li c e Ch a m b er s , v o lu n te er teacherage to get the teacher. This rarely happened, unless someone was Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen March 16, 1978 bleeding badly; you took your bumps and went on with the game. I would say that attending a rural school and living in a close knit community was the best time of my life. Although it had its drawbacks, it had more advantages. The older students helped the younger ones when the teacher was tied up with lessons for a different grade. It promoted a social atmosphere that is not the same in larger schools where older students do not mix with younger ones. I have very fond memories of my time at Sinclair School. As for teachers that taught me there, I now realize what a challenge it was to teach 7 grades in one class. I admire their commitment and thank them for their contribution to my education. Judy Turner 2011, former student and a teacher in Hixon Memories Sinclair Mills Elementary It’s a great learning experience. Besides being a teacher, I’m also the secretary, principal and nurse. But it is a social as well as an educational experience, and I could never have done it without the help of the parents. We have to work together and we have volunteers here every day so the kids will have someone to read to for 10-15 minutes. It’s just like you would dream of a country school. In the spring we will all work together to put in a grass field. The school board would probably do it, but it’s better this way when the community is involved. We’ll appreciate it more. The hardest thing to cope with is meeting the needs of 14 people at once, which happens when you teach different grades. You have to plan and prepare even if you’re here until 11 p.m. or 2 a.m. to do it. The first thing people always say when they come here from Vancouver is “ssh listen.” It is so quiet you can hear the silence and see the stars. The snowstorms are incredible, you can’t even explain what they are like. Once I thought it was a blizzard, but was told it was only a snowstorm. Allan Douglas, principal teacher. The Prince George Citizen. March 16, 1978. Ri ng i ng t h e B e ll t o En d Re c ess Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen March 16, 1978 Sinclair Mills Elementary SIX SCHOOLS COMPETE FOR CITY’S RURAL SPORTS TROPHY Students from Penny, Longworth, Sinclair Mills, Upper Fraser, Aleza Lake and Newlands competed for the coveted Prince George Rural School Trophy on June 16 when the annual rural school Sports Day was held in Upper Fraser School. Events on the sports program consisted of races for the grade I’s to VIII’s, novelty races for the younger pupils, and skill events such as High Jumping, Broad Jumping and Softball Throwing for the senior pupils. Longworth School showed great strength in the events for the younger ones but the power of Sinclair Mills was felt in the skill events. Billy and Johnny Gaal chalked up many points for the Sinclair Mills team in the events. Final events of the day were the softball games between the winner of the one-roomed rural schools, Aleza Lake, and the winner of the two-roomed rural schools, Sinclair Mills. The size of some of the smaller Aleza Lake players proved to be to the advantage of the Sinclair Mills teams and Aleza was defeated. A second game was played between Aleza and Penny to decide second place for the ball league. Aleza again failed to measure up to the Penny team and when the game was called after the second inning due to the approaching train time, Penny was far in the lead. Sp o r ts D a y 19 70’ s Courtesy of Allan Douglas, teacher When the final scores were totaled and adjusted according to the enrollments of the competing schools, the consistent tallying of points by the Aleza Lake pupils nudged out the Sinclair Mills school by a scant margin of 3.2 to 3.1. Miss Alice Homewood, principal of Sinclair Mills School, presented the cup to Mr. Barkes, teacher of Aleza Lake school. Penny School placed third and the remaining three schools were not far behind. June 21, 1951 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Snowshoe Elementary LOCATION Snowshoe School was located 56 km northwest of McBride on the CN railway and Fraser River, near Snowshoe Creek. 1927-1945 HISTORY Snowshoe was a one-room rural school, enrolling grades 1-8, built by the Allen–Thrasher Sawmill in 1927. The sawmill had moved to the area in 1920. The community was also the site of a Grand Trunk Railway construction camp and placer mining development. Snows hoe School 19 39 Courtesy of Ida Cutler, retired teacher Lo i s & B et h B el sh a m , st u d en ts 19 39 Courtesy of Ida Cutler, retired teacher A two-room teacherage on the edge of the creek was provided for the teacher. The first teacher was Miss Marjorie Duncan in 1928. Other teachers were: Miss J. E .M. Cook, Miss M. R. Lockhart, Miss R. Schoultz, Miss Dorothy M. Urquhart, G. R. Dickson, Miss Ida (Horn) Cutler, Miss Oma M. Blue, Miss D. G. King, Miss Annie Swaine and Mrs. Irene Taylor. Some of the families attending the school were the Belshams, the Tindalls, the Thrashers and the Boudreaus. Snowshoe Elementary Memories Well, the floor went up and down a little, because it had been built over a stump, and foundations had settled, but that was alright. The mill people had put the school up. It was square, with a peaked roof, and a big pot-bellied stove. All the seats were on slats of wood so they could be lifted a row at a time and piled up for the dances. They used to lay the babies all out on the sandtable. It didn’t matter what beautiful things the kids had made, the mothers just laid their babies like sardines on the sandtable, and they slept. It was expected that you would have a school concert at Christmas, so we had a good one, and the teacher had quite a hand in the monthly dances, especially the cleaning up. Sometimes the women came along and cleaned up, but once the only one who came along was the Allen boy. He was sixteen. I was pretty sore at those women. They probably had bad heads… They were so insulated in their local doings, that on the 21st of September (1939), they didn’t even know that the country was at war! That’s amazing you know. They didn’t even know that Canada was fighting Germany! An Interview with Ida Cutler: Pioneer Teacher in Lee and Snowshoe. RTA Oral History, 1999. There were grades one to eight, and I think it was good in some respects. The younger grades learned a lot from hearing the teacher teaching the older ones. We learned to spell better, I think you learned better grammar, and I enjoyed it. I loved the Christmas concert. We used to string a wire across the front and put two sheets on it. That was a big deal and it was crowded, I remember that. S now sh oe Teach erage 19 39 Courtesy of Ida Cutler, retired teacher Sharon Hawkins, former student. Robson Valley Story, 1979. South Fort G eorge Elementary 1200 La Salle Avenue, Prince George 1910-2003 Mission Statement South Fort George School exists for our students, and helps them recognize and fully develop their talents. South Fort George Elementary 2002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History The first Fort George South Elementary opened in 1910. It was the first school in the area that later came to be known as Prince George. The original one-room building was built on Thappage Lane and had a wood stove and outdoor plumbing. A.B. Campbell was the first teacher and some of the families to attend included the Birds, Yargeaus and Roys. The building was later declared a heritage building and moved to Exploration Place at Fort George Park where it can be viewed by the public. South Fort George Elementary The First School 1910 Exploration Place P983.12.10 In 1912-13, a second school, with two rooms, was built by John McInnis, (founder of McInnis Building Supplies) and Jack Davies, an early pioneer, on the hill near La Salle Avenue. The Second School 1924 A. Johnson, teacher Exploration Place P985.8.6 South Fort George Elementary In 1957, the third school was built on La Salle Avenue near where the second school had stood. It had four classrooms, an office and a staff room. Further additions were made in 1964 and 2002, including a gymnasium, staffroom and additional classrooms. South Fort George Elementary School was closed in 2003 and is now the South Fort George Family Resources Centre, the community’s multi-purpose building. The Third School 1960 BC A rchives Collection I-23838 enrollment y ear grad e # 1910 1-8 28 1913 1-8 81 1916 1-8 23 1918-1944 - no data 1945 1-6 76 1950 1-4 48 1955 1-6 101 1960 1-6 201 1965 1-7 328 1970 1-7 172 1975 K-7 312 1980 K-7 181 1985 K-7 148 1990 K-7 161 1995 K-7 147 2000 K-7 133 2002 K-7 99 Source: Public Schools A nnual R eport (s) Students In Front of the Second School 1918 Exploration Place P981.19.49 South Fort George Elementary EArly Staff to 1930 Miss L. Brady Mrs. A . Campbell Mr. A . D . Campbell Mr. A lexander Ogston Miss A lice S. Ledger Mrs. G race E. D unn Mrs. Maude A . Smiles Mr. D ouglas H. Stewart Miss E. M. Smith Miss Margaret L. Williams Miss Kathleen Morrow Mr. D . MacD onald Miss Beatrice Smith Miss A . Margaret Mutrie Miss Susan E. McLaughlin Miss Florence A . Horwood Mr. A lexander Smith Mr. Frank E. Anfield Miss A nnie M. Johnson Mr. R oss S. Tapp Miss Nina A . Mathers Miss G iaconda A ndruss Miss L. G . A ndrews Mr. James C. Lynch Mrs. B. A . Hillis Miss Thelma Tittemore Mr. Noel G . D uclos Principals D enis Smith T. Wheeler C.R . (Bob) Moss D ave Eldred A lan R eay Lyle Fleming John Norman D on Chamberlain D ave McMurray Phil R edmond Monty Woodley Sue D iakiw G ervin Halladay Leigh Erwin Bruce Walkey Brian Chappell Craig Brennan Mrs. B. Mundell’s Grade 1 & 2 Class 1954-55 Exploration Place 2004.2.189 South Fort George Elementary Pioneer Travel - The Sternwheelers One of the most romantic periods of pioneer transportation was when the sternwheelers were in operation. There were 12 to 14 steamers that played a significant part in the early history of South Fort George carrying cargo and passengers to Tete Jaune Cache and the upper Fraser. With the coming of the railway, the sternwheelers passed into history and were beached at South Fort George as an attraction for visitors. This important era of transportation is the reason for the sternwheeler logo for South Fort George School which was used on team shirts, daily planners and letterheads from the school. Models of some of them were also made and are located in the School District 57 Education Heritage Collection. Taken from: South Fort George A Trip to the Past 1987 Sternwheeler Model by Larry Moorhouse 1985 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection T-Shirts 1990’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection South Fort George Elementary Did You Know? I n the 1990’s, South Fort George was a small school of about 140 students. During this time, it operated as a Community School, with a full time coordinator for parent and student programs. Working within the school were an Aboriginal Education Worker and a School Counsellor. Other services were available through Area Support Team members. Services offered then included: EBS (Effective Behaviour Support) Learning Assistance Recreational Programs Breakfast and Lunch Programs Technology Training Extra-Curricular School Activities ESL/ESD An Adventure Playground Carrier Language and Culture First Nations Art Enrichment M rs. Fannie Kinney taught at South Fort George for 22 years both at the second site and the third one on LaSalle Avenue. In 1958, the residents of South Fort George presented her with the Centennial Citizen of the Year award, proof of their affection. S outh Fort George had an enrichment program entitled Rent-a-Reader. Young children could pay to have a book read to them. Rent-A-Reader 2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection South Fort George Elementary Sports Jr. Boys’ Basketball League Champs 1954 Exploration Place 2004.2.176 Sr. Girls’ Basketball Club 1954 Exploration Place 2004.2.181 Sr. Girls’ Softball Club 1954 Exploration Place 2004.2.172 Cross-country Running 1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection South Fort George Gym Class 1936 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Skiing 1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection South Fort George Elementary Activities Junior Science Club 1953-54 Exploration Place 2004.2.174 Pumpkin Carving 1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Science Fair 2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Christmas Operetta “Santa University 1999” SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lunch to Celebrate a Unit on Mexico, France, and Australia 2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection South Fort George Elementary The Strap was used in B.C. schools up until 1973. List of Infractions from the South Fort George Visitors’ Register 1947 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Free Press July 5, 2001 South Fort George Elementary Memories The second school built in South Fort George was a two-room school built at the top of the hill on Hamilton Avenue. After the construction of a newer four-room school on the opposite corner of the playground facing La Salle Avenue, the smaller school remained empty for several years with the exception of one year when it was used to house children on shift from the Van Bien School. This was done while Van Bien was being constructed on Ferry Avenue. Then in 1964, the school on La Salle received an addition of a gymnasium, staff room and four classrooms on two floors and that was when I joined the staff. I taught there until 1990. In the late 1960’s, the smaller two-room second school was destroyed by fire. It was believed to have been started by transients in the area. Doreen Gray 2014, retired teacher The school was set in a wonderful location on a hill on La Salle Avenue. A gigantic playing field adjacent to a city park with teeter-totter and merry-go-round, as well as a small forested area, created a splendid setting that the students could spread out and be active in. During my years there from 1978 to 2003, I became part of the close community that surrounded the school and had the pleasurable experience of teaching some sons and daughters of former students and many of these families remain friends today. Initially I taught grades 4 and 5, but then switched to grade 7 for the remaining years. My room was in the older wing of the school, which was torn down in 2001-02 and replaced with newer classrooms for one year before the school was closed. When I moved on to other schools in the district, I took the memories of some of the hugely popular yearly events of SFG school and community with me. Some of them were the June Sports Day with the students versus adults baseball game, the Science Fair, Intermediate House League, and the wonderful backdrop for Christmas concerts created and painted by local artist Eugene Bricker. Larry Stewart 2014, retired teacher St. Marie’s Lake Elementary 1959-1965 Location St. Marie’s Lake school was located 17 km south of Prince George and 29 km east along the Willow Cale Forest Service and Buckhorn Lake Roads to the shores of Ste. Marie Lake. History The school was established at a developed settlement to serve children from the Willow River Working Circle lumber camps. The school board provided the community with a one-room school house and a teacherage which was moved on site from Fraserview School. In February 1964 a second portable classroom was brought in. Unfortunately, in September 1964 the school district was unable to hire a second teacher. By June 1965 only four students resided in Ste. Marie Lake as the population in the Willow River Working Circle had shifted to the Thursday Lumber Camp, 7 km away, and so the school closed. There had been many heated meetings with the parents at the Thursday Lumber site who wanted the school district to move the St. Marie’s Lake school buildings there. However, in September 1965, the trustees selected St. Marie’s Lake to be the collection point of the Working Circle students to board a school bus that took them back and forth to Buckhorn Elementary, a six-room school, 28 km away. Trustee Harold Moffat said, “We’re sure not going to build a one-room school in every logging camp in the area.” (Prince George Citizen, December 14, 1965). Both the school board and B.C. Forest Service have since removed the unused buildings and there is little evidence of a school or a settlement having been there. STAFF INCLUDED Mrs. J.G. Nelles Mr. John Penner ENROLLMENT YEAR 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 GRADE 1-4 1-4 1-4 1-3 1-6 1-3, 7, 8 # 28 30 29 22 37 25 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Class trip to Ste. Marie Lake 1981 Courtesy of Judy Addie. St. Marie’s Lake Elementary Ken and Kathy Bernsohn. Prince George Backroads. Saltaire Publishing Ltd., Sidney, BC, 1976. Did You Know? S t. Marie’s Lake was spelled in a variety of ways including Ste. Marie’s Lake, St. Mary’s Lake, St. Mary Lake, St. Marie Lake, Mary Lake…the official name of the school and the name of the lake are not the same. T F he lake currently is a recreation site with camping facilities and a trail system. orest Service roads were roads built in order to extend secondary roads into the woods to give access for loggers to log the timber. St. Marie’s Lake Elementary ORAL POLIO VACCINE available November 18 to 23 in Prince George SCHOOL CHILDREN will receive vaccine at the Schools. INFANTS, PRE-SCHOOLERS AND ADULTS may receive vaccine at the following specified times and places: NORTHERN INTERIOR HEALTH UNIT Monday, November 18, 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, November 19, 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, November 20, 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, November 21, 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, November 22, 1:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, November 23, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ OUT-OF-TOWN CLINICS CENTRE PLACE DATE TIME Stone Creek School Nov. 18 9:30–10:30 Red Rock School Nov. 18 11:00–12:00 Bonnet Hill School Nov. 18 9:15–10:00 Blackburn Road School Nov. 18 10:30–12:00 St. Mary’s Lake School Nov. 18 2:15–3:00 Fraserview School Nov. 18 1:15 Forman Flats School Nov. 18 2:30 … Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen November 14, 1963 Memories In June 1960 we moved to Project 4843, St. Marie Lake, Prince George, B.C. That winter it was (my husband) Jim’s turn to stay in camp over the Christmas holidays to keep the light plant and equipment running so everything wouldn’t freeze up. Jim also had to make the rounds starting up the machines, bulldozers, graders, trucks, etc. so they wouldn’t freeze. It was a full time job and Jim was very tired at the end of the day. It was a bitterly cold winter (-35F), and we were left there all by ourselves, Jim, I and two toddlers. It was so cold that the oil froze in the line going to the furnace in our trailer. One night the temperamental light plant stopped before Jim could get to it. It was black dark, and Jim was gone for hours. He finally got the light plant running again and came home at daylight. October 1961 we moved to Lillooet, B.C. Barbara (Worth) Maxwell, Engineering Branch of B.C. Forest Service (Note: Barbara Worth had taught at Connaught Elementary School) St. Marie’s Lake Elementary But Power First People Urgently Needed How would you like to live beside a pleasant, wooded lake, near mill employment and not too far from Prince George? If you would, there’s a group of people at St. Marie’s Lake, 32 miles from the city, who would welcome you with open arms. They need more residents so B.C. Hydro will extend power to their community and they want more children so they can get a second teacher for their school. St. Marie’s Lake is on the Buckhorn Road, about 19 miles from the Cariboo highway. That’s not far but it is 17 miles from Buckhorn Lake, the end of the hydro line. People at St. Marie’s believe, if they had electricity, other families would move to their settlement. It’s a beautiful spot, selected jointly by the school board and forestry officials. Lots were subdivided and two schools built–two schools (one room each) because, until Christmas last year, there were enough students to operate two classrooms. However, since then families have moved away and they’re back to one teacher again. The single teacher has 14 children in the three junior grades and 11 in grades seven and eight. That’s a total of 25. With just one more there would be enough to justify a second teacher. Parents at St. Marie’s feel the age gap is so great that the students in grades seven and eight should have a separate teacher. Their exams are standard government tests and so, the parents believe, they need undivided attention to meet the requirements. St. Marie’s was created as a central point at which families could settle while fathers were working in nearby mills. It was seen as better to pick a spot and stick with it than to move schools as mills opened and closed. But there are only eight residences there today and Hydro says there should be 30 before the power extension is warranted. It’s a tough problem and one to which spokesmen say both hydro and school officials are sympathetic but can do nothing. Speaking for the St. Marie’s people today were Mrs. J. Belling and Mrs. E. Bramble. They see it this way: The school can’t be stabilized until the population is settled and the population can’t be settled until there is power–but there won’t be power until there is population. Yesterday they visited B.C. Hydro and School Board offices seeking some other solution but none was forthcoming. So, if you’d like a nice home by a lake–come and bring your school age children. September 16, 1964 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Stone Creek Elementary 1921-1984 LOCATION The school was located 35 km south of Prince George, off Highway 97, on the Pacific Great Eastern line. St o n e C re e k El e me n ta ry 19 80 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY The first school, built in 1921, was a one-room log structure. Mr. W. G. Watson was the first teacher. This building was used until 1956 when a new two-room school and teacherage were built. The school district demolished the old school in December 1959. The school was closed in the late 1930’s and mid 1940’s due to lack of enrollment. The highest enrollment was 63 students in 1966. From 1959–1984, grade 7 students were bussed to Duchess Park Junior High School in Prince George and thus Stone Creek School only enrolled students to grade 6. Rusty Rustemeyer, principal teacher, closed Stone Creek School in 1984. The students were bussed to Red Rock Elementary. Stone Creek Elementary ENROLL M E N T YEAR 1945 1950 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1984 GRADE # 1-8 21 1-8 19 1-7 23 1-6 44 1-6 56 1-6 34 1-6 29 1-6 22 1-6 24 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) S to n e C r eek D iv . 2 1 9 6 3 M is s W e d l e y , t e a ch e r SD 57 Education Heritage Collection St on e Cre ek Cl ass 19 50 Pa t ( Hi l bo r n) S ex s m i th , r e t ir e d t ea c h er SD 57 Education Heritage Collection S TA F F 1921-1954 M r. W. G . Wat son G . A. Br ander hor st Har old Annand M iss Annie Rosenber gh M iss Rober t a M cLeod M iss V. T hor ne Mr. William Taylor M r s. N. L. F lick Miss Helen L. G r ieves M iss J. Clark M iss Pear l M . Johnson M r s. M ar ie Bjor nson Pat Hilbo rn M ar ie Lloyd P R I N C I PA L S 1975-1984 Bruce Ballantyne Frank Brown Rusty Rustemeyer Stone Creek Elementary Did You Know? I N 1927, “GOOD SPRING WATER HERE” WAS A LARGE SIGN ON THE HIGHWAY NEAR THE STONE CREEK SCHOOL. APPARENTLY, THERE WAS A SHORTAGE OF WATER ON THIS SECTION OF THE HIGHWAY AND THE STONE CREEK TEACHER, MISS ROSENBERGH, WANTED TO DI- RECT TOURISTS TO ONE OF THE BEST SPRINGS IN THE AREA. THE SPRING WAS ALSO THE SOURCE OF THE SCHOOL’S WATER. I N 1954, MARIE LLOYD WAS ASSIGNED HER FIRST TEACHING JOB AT STONE CREEK SCHOOL. SHE HAD BEEN CROWNED MISS PRINCE GEORGE IN 1951. HER 32 STUDENTS THOUGHT THAT SHE WAS JUST NOT “PRETTY” BUT “SMART” AS SHE COULD EVEN UMPIRE BASEBALL! I N THE 1920’S AND 30’S, THE PRINCE GEORGE LUTHERAN CHURCH HELD SERVICES AT THE STONE CREEK SCHOOL ON TUESDAY EVENINGS AND THE WOODPECKER SCHOOL ON WEDNESDAY EVENINGS AT 8 O’CLOCK. M arie Ll oyd, teach er WEEKEND Magazine 1954 I N 1952, THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES MADE A MOTION TO CLOSE THE SCHOOL PERMANENTLY DUE TO LOW ENROLLMENT AND THE AGE OF THE SCHOOL BUILDING. SEVERAL MEETINGS WERE HELD TO DISCUSS THE CLOSURE OF THIS SCHOOL AND OTHER RURAL SCHOOLS IN THE DISTRICT. A NEW SCHOOL WAS BUILT IN 1956 AND REMAINED OPEN UNTIL 1984. Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen March 3, 1952 Stone Creek Elementary CHRISTMAS TREE AT STONE CREEK The new school at Stone Creek held its concert on Friday last with a large attendance of children, parents and visitors. The hall was beautifully decorated with festive evergreens and bright garlands, and the stage setting with fireplace and stocking hanging over the chimney piece was the finishing touch to the cosiness of the room. The programme rendered by the teacher and her pupils was an achievement of merit, commencing with carol singing by candlelight, which reflected the eager and serene faces of the children, followed by a varied selection of items, including recitations, tap dances and Ribbon Drill. In addition, the older pupils took part in a sketch “Pulling Sam’s Tooth” which was thoroughly enjoyed by both players and audience. There was some community singing and finally a short play,“Santa Claus at the Bar of Justice”, enacted by older members of the community… At last, the big moment arrived when Santa appeared at the tree to distribute the presents. A lunch was served, with fruit and candy following, bountiful, and plenty for all, followed by games for children and dancing for the grownups. Congratulations are due to Miss Thorne, the teacher, for her enthusiasm. Only four of her flock had been to school before, so she had not much to work with, but she turned out a first class entertainment. HIXON STUDENTS TOP INTER-SCHOOL SPORTS An inter-school sports day was held here Friday with Red Rock, Stone Creek and Hixon schools competing on a per pupil average basis. First place went to Division 1, Hixon, and second prize to Stone Creek... Division I, Hixon, was awarded the MacLean Trophy, and Stone Creek, the School District No. 57 Cup... To end the sports day, Hixon defeated a combined Red Rock Stone Creek team in a softball game. A good turnout of adults watched the day’s events, and the PTA booth was sold out of refreshments. June 6, 1977 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen December 24, 1940 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen S ports Day 195 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Stone Creek Elementary Memories I went to school in Stone Creek. It was unique. We had Grades 1 to 6 in one school room–—one classroom. The first teacher I had there when we returned from Kamloops was Marie Lloyd. The Lloyd family is a well known family in Prince George, been around here for years. What can I tell you? It was just a one-room school house. We had a wood stove in there. We had a cloakroom, which they don’t even have nowadays. Your grades were in rows. Instead of having classes, this one (row) would be grade 1, grade 2. I think it was better back then than nowadays. We mightn’t have had all of the extra curriculum that they have now, but we all joined in. Like—with music—the whole school joined in—not a classroom. We didn’t have all the extra things—field trips and school trips and things like that. We had the standard—math, reading, writing, English. But, it was more a one-to-one basis. It was more personal. Your teacher wasn’t only your teacher—she was your friend instead of your babysitter. Although I don’t believe in the strap, I’m very much against it, I do think that had to do with the control in the classroom. It was just the threat of it—you know it didn’t have to be used. There was more respect back then than I feel there is now. I really enjoyed it. Marge Yurychuk Slater. Interview with Jeremy Siddall, UNBC student, UNBC Red Rock Community History Project, 2001. S to n e Cr ee k El em e nt a r y 1 950 Courtesy of Pat (Hilborn) Sexsmith, retired teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Stone Creek Elementary Awards from Stone Creek School S erv ice Award 197 9-199 1 M o st I m p r o v ed St u de nt 197 6-198 5 Stone Creek Elementary REGISTER OF PUPILS OF STONE CREEK PUBLIC SCHOOL IN BRITISH COLUMBIA 1981-1982 Teacher, Mrs. L. Ballantyne SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Stone Creek Elementary MINUTES OF STONE CREEK RATEPAYERS MEETING November 5, 1948 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Strathnaver Elementary 1929-1965 Location The schools were located on Highway 97 South, 6.5 km from Hixon and 35 km from Quesnel near the BC Rail line. Strathnaver School Pen & watercolour by Karen D ougan SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History The area of Strathnaver was named after The Duke of Sutherland, Lord Strathnaver, a Scottish landowner who settled in the area in 1911. There were three Strathnaver Schools in various locations. The first school was a log structure built at Meadow Creek in September 1929. The first teacher was Dorothy C. (Stimpson) Allcock and her grade 1-8 students were from the Morgan, Colebank, MacKay and Wade families. This school was closed in the fall of 1948 when a young teacher refused to teach there because of the poor condition of the school. As it was partly on the right-of-way for a new highway, the rotting log building was burned in 1956. The second school was a temporary portable built on the Odiorne family land. This building was used until 1955. Many of the teachers boarded with the Odiorne family during these years, as no teacherage was available. Some students may have attended Hixon Elementary School from 1955 to 1958 until the Prince George School District built a new school near Dunkley Lumber in 1959. This school was sold for $39,000 to the Quesnel School District in the late 1960’s. Quesnel eventually sold the building to a private owner and the converted home can still be seen from the highway. Students from the area are now bussed to Quesnel School District. Strathnaver Elementary enrollment y ear 1945 1946 1947 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 grad e # 1-8 11 1-7 9 2-6 8 1-6 6 1-7 8 1-8 11 1-9 12 1-8 9 1-8 15 1-8 22 1-4 28 1-4 30 1-4 29 1-3 22 1-6 37 1-6 31 Strathnaver Class late 1940’s Courtesy of Marg (Odiorne) Merriam, former student Source: Public Schools A nnual R eport (s) EArly Staff D orothy C. (Stimpson) A llcock Miss C. M. (Kate) Murray Miss J. J. Williams Miss Margaret A . Forbes Miss Jean A . Cameron Elva R . (R igler) MacKay Miss Kathleen J. G oold Leonora R oddis Miss Elsie J. Hunt Miss T. Colebank Pearl Bolton Miss Wanda Yeske A nn Hildebrand Wanda Yeske Riding “Goldie” 1949 Courtesy of Marg (Odiorne) Merriam, former student Strathnaver Elementary Strathnaver School Board Minute Book 1929-1932 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Strathnaver Elementary Maintenance 1936 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Strathnaver Elementary Memories The old log school wolves got so bad that my older brother was allowed to pack a rifle to and from school. The wolves were killing dogs and cats on people’s doorsteps and chasing moose into cattle feeding areas where the moose tried to hide from them. The wolves traveled in packs and they were very scary. The Colebanks and VanBuskirks rode horses to school, as there was a small barn there for them. Sometimes we Odiornes did the same. Dad donated land to build a small school. I think we only had 7 or 8 students. It was also used for Christmas parties and dances. My dad had the contract for cutting firewood for the school’s big heater in four-foot lengths. We were all involved in this. One time, someone threw a handful of 22 rifle shells into the wood heater. Stove lids were jumping and the teacher did an evacuation pretty fast. The teacher made us boys shovel a path to the outhouse. On one drift of snow, we dug a trench and layered the top with twigs covered with snow. The teacher fell in and was very angry but the next day thought it was funny and laughed. One teacher went to the outhouse and the kids locked the door from the outside and set fire to tar paper on the outside. She yelled at them and they put it out, all in fun. She laughed about it later. Another time, someone tied a large weasel to the back of the teacher’s top desk drawer to give her a scare; it did. It couldn’t reach her as it could only come out so far. All the above incidents were done in fun and no one was physically hurt. Later the school was closed, as there were not enough students. The school was rented to contractors building new highways all through that area. When the school closed down, the Lockyers drove the high school students to Prince George. Arnold Odiorne 2012, student in the late 1940’s Softball Team 1950 Courtesy of Marg (Odiorne) Merriam, former student Strathnaver Elementary I was a student at Strathnaver for one year in 1966-1967. It was due to a change in school district boundaries that moved me and a few others to Strathnaver. I had completed grades 1 to 6 at Hixon Elementary. The boundary change meant that I now was the responsibility of Quesnel School District. Had the boundary been a few yards north, I would have completed grade 7 at Hixon and then moved into Prince George for the rest of my public schooling. It was a year of adjusting to a new school and, for the most part, new classmates. The school was much smaller than Hixon. There were only two classrooms. Grades 1-4 were in one of the rooms and grades 5-7 in the other. There were two outhouses, one for the boys and one for the girls. Using the washroom in those days was definitely not a reason to get out of a boring class or meet friends for a chat. It was cold in the winter and, in good snowball weather, you had a good chance of being plummeted by snowballs as you entered or exited. I became an entrepreneur, in a sense, that year. With a couple of friends, we began pooling the few pennies that we earned to buy candy at the general store in Hixon on the weekend. We would then make little variety bags of candy and sell them for a profit during the week when we were at school in Strathnaver. Sadly, we only had this idea a few months before school finished for the year and we headed to Quesnel Secondary. Otherwise, I think we would have made quite a bundle of money! My final memory is of the year-end track and field day. It was a tradition for Hixon Elementary to compete against Strathnaver Elementary for a cumulative trophy, earned by winning the majority of the competitions. There were many different events. Strathnaver had never won this trophy before but, this year, we did! I have to admit, now, that we weren’t very gracious winners. We all joined hands and marched around Hixon, where the track meet was held, yelling “Ha, Ha Hixon” at the top of our lungs until the bus arrived to take us back to our school. Bonnie (Mahan) Fuller 2013, former student Summit Lake Elementary 1948-1965 LOCATION The school was located 55 km north of Prince George, off Hart Highway 97, almost ½ km from Summit Lake. Oi l Pa i n t i n g of Sum mi t L a ke S ch ool 19 50’ s “Seven FInger Gus” Dalstrom, retired trapper SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY Summit Lake received its name because it was a summit of land dividing two watersheds—the Fraser River flowing south to the Pacific Ocean and the Peace River flowing north to the Arctic Ocean. The first school was a building that had been used as a cookhouse by Campbell Mannix, a Hart Highway construction company. Half of the building was used as living quarters with two bedrooms and a kitchen. The old dining hall was the schoolroom. Connie Buchanan was the first teacher. She taught at Summit Lake for 13 years. The first one-room frame school was built in 1950 with two outhouses and a woodshed. The painting above shows Connie Buchanan, with her son David and dog Bouncer, on the pathway of this school. The artist was a local notorious trapper who lost his fingers in a sailing accident. A second one-room frame school was built in 1956 as the enrollment increased. In 1954, enrollment hit 63 students in grades 1–8. Both the primary school building and the senior school building were moved to Bear Lake in 1965 when Summit Lake School was closed. Summit Lake Elementary ENROLLME N T YEAR 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 GRADE # 1-7 10 1-8 19 1-8 32 1-9 32 1-8 30 1-8 37 1-8 63 1-8 42 1-8 49 1-8 43 1-8 48 1-8 47 1-8 48 1-8 38 1-8 44 1-8 19 1-8 13 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) S u m m it L a ke C l as s 1 9 5 0 ’ s C o n n i e Bu c h an a n , te a ch e r SD 57 Education Heritage Collection S TA F F Connie Buchanan Mrs. Petruk Mr. Warner Lillian Fowlie Ann (Dahl) Miller Marj Heal Beryl (Huble) Botham Memories I wanted a rural school for the experience and I had two or three positions offered to me—one of them was Mud River, I remember, I think the other was Marguerite and then there was Summit Lake. Well, my mother took one look at the description of the schools and said, “ I couldn’t bear to tell our friends that you were teaching at MUD River,” so on that recommendation I took Summit Lake! I believe I had over 14 students, if I remember right, every grade from 1 to 8. Several of the children had come straight from the trap line and had 2 months of instruction in how to read and write, up on the trap line, but they had had no formal schooling. It was quite a challenge. Summit Lake Elementary Well, one of the first things that happened was that a mother, who turned out to be my future mother-in-law, landed at the back door of the teacherage one morning while I was eating breakfast, with saucer in hand. In the saucer were a couple of head lice. I had never seen head lice before, and I don’t think she had either, but she said with a rather sickening tone in her voice, “Patty has head lice!” So we looked at these and decided we would send word in to the Health Nurse, because I wasn’t familiar with what you did with head lice but I knew they would go through the whole school because of the crowded conditions of the cloakroom, where all the coats and hats were piled up on top of each other. The Health Nurse came out and gave me, I think, about 6 cones of pure DDT powder with the instructions to sprinkle this powder in the kids’ hair and in all their hats, every day for 2 weeks until all the lice were killed and the nits (eggs) would be killed if they hatched. If you can imagine all these little, mostly native, kids heading home looking like little gray-haired old men with all this DDT powder sprinkled right to their scalp. It just horrifies me now! I’m sure it would horrify the Public Health Nurse now, too—to think of using this DDT powder that way, but that was done in 1949. One really nice thing about teaching in a small community was that you met the parents. The kids knew you were going to run into Dad or Mom down at the corner store, that night or the next day and you might talk about their behaviour. So it was not exactly like family, but there was always that consciousness that you knew the parents, they knew you and there wasn’t such a thing as a discipline problem. Connie Bucha nan, ret ir ed t ea cher & l a wn b owle r 199 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I used to, one year, when I had 38 students in 8 grades, teach school in my sleep. My husband would wake me up. It was obviously a very stressful type of job when you had 8 grades. I also had several children that I now would identify as FAS students. But we didn’t have labels like that then. I knew there was an alcohol problem in the family, and that sort of thing, but it never dawned on me that it had any affect on the learning patterns of the students. An Interview with Connie Buchanan: Pioneer Teacher in the Summit Lake Area. RTA Oral History, 1999. Summit Lake Elementary “SUMMIT LAKE” was a column in the Prince George Citizen in the 1950’s which reported on school and community activities in the area. BINGO EVENING HELD AT SUMMIT LAKE SCHOOL A successful Bingo Evening was held in the Summit Lake school last Friday. Louise Van Somer was the only person to win four games and so received the Panda bear as grand prize. Refreshments were prepared and served by the Girl Guides, who realized $29 toward their general funds. February 5, 1953 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen VALENTINE FETES A Valentine tea sponsored by the primary school was held on Tuesday with grades 2 and 3 serving tea to their parents and neighbours at 2 p.m. Pretty heartshaped aprons decked the small girls who presided over the tables, and the boys who assisted as hosts wore caps decorated with various sizes of hearts. A silver collection was taken to purchase new library books for their room. The older students also held a Valentine party in the senior school. February 16, 1956 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Memories My friend Marj Heal and I were teaching at a large Vancouver school with 56 teachers and decided we wanted an adventure, so we applied to various school districts around the province. Prince George phoned and remarked on the fact that we had specified we wanted to be by the water. They said that they had available schools by a lake, river or a creek. Which would we like? “Oh, a lake,” we said. So that’s how we ended up at Summit Lake. Only for a year, you know...but then we both met our husbands and that was that. I think people in the north are much more interesting and I have never regretted the move. Ann (Dahl) Miller, retired teacher Swift Creek Elementary 1916-1935 Location Swift Creek was located 2 km north of Valemount on the Canadian National Railway line that ran from Kamloops to Jasper. Swift Creek School 1910’s Valley Museum & Archives 2003.18.32 History By 1914 the community of Swift Creek consisted of a train station with a post office, and it had a fire warden and a district doctor. There was a sawmill operated by water power and a pole camp for power poles. The name came from a clear rushing mountain stream that flowed into the MacLennan River, overlooked by Canoe Mountain. The first school was one room, erected of logs, complete with barrel heater and opened in June 1916 with 11 students. As it had a fine organ, it served as a central gathering place for the community: dances, box socials, concerts, church, and Sunday school. The train station was relocated to neighbouring Valemount in 1927. After a fire burned down the school in June 1935, the new school also was built in the developing community of Valemount. Swift Creek train station 1926 Yellowhead Pass and Its People. Valemount Historic Society, 1984. Swift Creek Elementary STAFF Miss Pearl M. Orser Miss Adeline L. McConnell Miss Margaret Isobel Wate George Herbert Stocks J. N. Muir Miss Marjorie Hyndman Miss Isabel Main Miss Elizabeth Robertson Miss Lily E. Merrett Miss Ziran Massop Miss Kathleen/Kay S. Webb Miss Laura V. L. Hollis From top left clockwise: Isabel Main, Elizabeth Robertson, Laura Hollis, Kay Webb From left to right: Lily Merrett, Swift Creek teacher; Miss McConnell, Albreda teacher, and her sister with Carl Lofgren entertaining school teachers at his pole-making camp 1927 Photos on this page: Yellowhead Pass and Its People. Valemount Historic Society, 1984. Swift Creek Elementary Did You Know? I n 1918, Margaret Wate came to teach in December as the school had been closed due to the influenza epidemic. It was her first teaching job. This 19 year old was soon wooed and wed by a 45 year old local. T he fire in June of 1935 put an end to this school. However, the teacher, Laura Hollis, was hired to be the first teacher of the replacement school, built in Valemount. Swift Creek students c1924 Yellowhead Pass and Its People. Valemount Historic Society, 1984. School outhouse with students 1920 Valley Museum & Archives 2003.18.9 Laura Hollis and her students 1935 Valley Museum & Archives 2003.24.60 Pupils 1935 Valley Museum & Archives 2003.24.20 Swift Creek Elementary Memories We used to pick up C.N.R. cutlery along the tracks, as the dishwashers on the (C.N.R.) dining cars would throw out the dishwater, sometimes with cutlery still in it…I had the job of delivering the mail from Cox’s post office to Kennedy’s mill. During lunch break at school I would walk to the mill with any mail I had and pick up any out-going mail and deposit it at the post office on the way home. I was paid $8.00 a month for this job. I was also the janitor at the old log school house for some time, and for this job I was paid $5.00 per month. Miss Wate was our school teacher. Andy Orason, former student Yellowhead Pass and Its People. Valemount Historic Society, 1984. I lived in the log cabin (teacherage) for two years and it was quite an experience for me to carry water from the spring for my personal use. I had a heater in my cabin which I lit on returning home from school. During the evening when the cabin became warm, blowflies came out of their hibernation from between the logs and flew to the small window. Nightly I’d have to leave my homework for a few minutes to dispatch the buzzing flies. I had a container I filled with water to heat and fill my hot water bottle to place in my bed so I’d have water to wash with in the morning, as that in the pail would have ice on it. The household cat used to visit me in the evening and when I went to bed, it crawled to the bottom, so that kept my feet warm. The poor creature had the tips of both ears frozen off. Saturday morning was bath day and I had that in the bedroom of the house. I carried water from the spring and the tub was lifted on the stove to heat. After having my bath I did my weekly laundry in the same water. In the spring the mosquitoes attacked me with vengeance until someone told me to wrap my legs with newspapers under my stockings. I slept with my head under the sheets as their humming awoke me at dawn. The second year I spent at Swift Creek I gave lessons in English to some of the section men two evenings a week. This added a little to my income as a teacher’s salary was $110.00 a month and out of that I paid $40.00 for board. Lily (Merrett) Carter, former teacher, 1927-29 Yellowhead Pass and Its People. Valemount Historic Society, 1984. Lily (Merrett) Carter Robert McDonald was one of the earliest settlers. He was a big Scot with a white moustache. He was every kid’s friend– never missed the school concert at Christmastime. He also owned a pair of fleet-footed ponies and red sleigh. He used to deck the ponies with bells and, on a Saturday afternoon, would take the schoolteacher of the day, (called the school ma’am when she wasn’t present) for a ride. Marion Dahlberg, former student Yellowhead Pass and Its People. Valemount Historic Society, 1984. Sylvan Glade Elementary 1931-1963 LOCATION The school was located northwest of Prince George off the Chief Lake Road, 8 km past Reid Lake School, 13 km north of Isle Pierre, between Ness and Saxton Lakes. Sy l van Gl ad e El e m e n t ar y 1 932 Courtesy of Irene (Campbell) Rigler, former student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY In 1931, while the school was under construction, lessons were taught in Stanley Campbell’s living room. The first teacher, Hilda Knight, resided in the same home and paid $25 monthly for room and board. Ten students in grades one and two were registered that first year. A one-room log schoolhouse was opened in May 1932 on the southeast corner of the Campbell farm. There were two outhouses at the back and the school was heated with a pot-bellied, wood burning stove. The name of the school—Sylvan Glade—was very appropriate as it meant an open spot or bright spot in the forest. The highest enrollment at the grade 1-8 school was about twenty children in 1939. In August 1952, the school burnt down. Arson was suspected. Eight children were accommodated in temporary quarters until a portable building replaced the demolished school. During the 1940’s and 1950’s, the school was open only intermittently as enrollment fluctuated from 8 to 15 students and teacher recruitment in rural areas continued to be a district problem. The second Sylvan Glade School opened in 1957. The students were bussed to Nukko Lake School in 1963 when there were difficulties with the teacher’s attendance. Sylvan Glade Elementary Memories The school day began with the raising of our flag, the Union Jack, and the singing of our national anthem. We learned to respect our country’s flag and were taught what patriotism meant. The Lord’s Prayer provided a calming, settling effect prior to classes. For reading, there was little except prescribed textbooks. I recall the Royal Bank providing us with book jackets, which we carefully cut to cover our texts. The Prince George Public Library loaned the schools a box of books twice each year. How excited we were when those new books arrived! Sometimes progress was interrupted, though, because the teacher’s time was split in so many directions in the multi-grade system. Older children would often help the younger ones as in one big family. Discipline was handled mostly by detentions. The strap was seldom used but certainly was a deterrent! Grade placement was, as I remember, by age, ability to master teacher-written tests and daily progress as judged by the teacher. Everyone did not automatically pass. Certain achievements were essential or repetition of the grade was necessary. The school was the centre of all neighbouring social events. If a dance or an evening of games was scheduled, the desks were pushed against the walls. As in all country schools, the Christmas Concert was a yearly highlight. A beautiful large spruce tree was delivered a few days before the event. Children excitedly made paper decorations and chalk-stenciled the boards. Each child usually appeared in the performance more than once and Santa Claus arrived with treats for all to end the festivities. An Interview with Irene Rigler. RTA Oral History, 1998. S tu d en ts C el eb r a ti n g t he B r i t is h Co m m o nw ea l th o f N a t io ns 1 9 3 7 Irene (Rigler) Campbell, student in photograph SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Sylvan Glade Elementary E A R LY STAFF S ylv a n G la d e Cl a ss 19 32 Hi l da Kn i gh t , t each er Courtesy of Irene (Campbell) Rigler, former student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection SYLVAN GLADE Sylvan Glade school reopened early in October with Mrs. C. Benton as teacher. S. Buday and H. Taylor built an attractive looking teacherage on the school grounds. Miss R. Moore and Miss V. Geier are holding Gospel services in the school house each Sunday afternoon and Friday evening. “Elmer,” the pet moose at Circle Lake ranch, is growing into a finelooking animal and likes to follow the members of the family wherever they go. All the members of the district joined in a Hallowe’en party which was held at the school. A pleasant afternoon was enjoyed. November 16, 1950 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Hilda Knight Mrs. Gladys Clifford Miss Eleanor Bain Miss Elizabeth Van Buskirk Miss Marjorie Tryon Mrs. Vivian Ka hldestad William Durrell Mrs. Jeannie Charlotte Benton Mrs. Oma M. Rusch Mrs. Evelyn Hazle Syl v an Gl ad e Cl ass 194 0 M a r j o r i e Tryo o n, te a c he r Courtesy of Irene (Campbell) Rigler, former student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Sylvan Glade Elementary Syl v an Gl ad e Cl ass 19 35 Gl a d y s C l i f f o r d , t e a ch e r Courtesy of Irene (Campbell) Rigler, former student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection FIRE RAZES SCHOOL; ARSONIST BLAMED School Board officials suspect an arsonist was responsible for a mysterious fire which completely destroyed a one-room log school at Sylvan Glade, eight miles north of Isle Pierre, on Sunday evening. The fire was first noticed by neighbors at 7 p.m., shortly after heavy rains had drenched the countryside. The small building, constructed in 1931, has been unoccupied since early in July when Sunday School was held there. A heavy wind swept flames away from the nearby teacherage but blew huge embers into the air and for a time endangered a barn. Volunteers saved a quantity of wood piled against the school before intense heat drove them back. Loss is estimated at $1500. Last year ten pupils attended the school, and this year eight children will be accommodated in temporary quarters loaned by George White. Classes will reopen on schedule next Tuesday, according to a school official. August 28, 1952 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Tabor Creek - Tabor Creek South Elementary 1925-1960 LOCATION The schools were located 19 km from Prince George in the Pineview-Buckhorn area. Tab or Cr eek Sc hool 195 0 BC Archives Collection I-22716 HISTORY The first Tabor Creek Elementary School was a one-room wooden structure that opened in 1925 with Miss Julia Izowsky as the teacher. This school operated from 1928 to 1945, closed for three years, and reopened in 1948 with 25 students in grades 1 - 6. It remained open until 1960 when the students were transferred to Buckhorn Elementary School. Another school, 5 km south of the Tabor Creek location, operated under the name Tabor Lake South Elementary. This school was open from 1946–1951. Fire destroyed the building in April 1951 and students were bussed to city schools in Prince George until June of that year. Land was purchased by the Prince George School District and a new school on Buckhorn Lake Road was opened in the 1951-1952 year. The insurance money of $3500 plus the sale of the old land meant that no financial support was required from the ministry. The new school was aptly renamed Buckhorn Elementary. It is difficult to determine the history of these schools as both schools have been referred to as “Tabor Creek” in newspaper articles and ministry correspondence. Separate enrollment figures reported to the ministry indicated the presence of two schools. Tabor Creek - Tabor Creek South Elementary Tabor Creek ENR O L L M E N T YEAR 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 GRADE # 1-6 25 1-6 26 3-6 18 1-6 17 1-7 25 1-7 21 1-6 20 1-5 23 1-5 25 1-6 21 1-6 22 1-6 24 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) T a bo r Cr e ek Sc h ool C la s s la t e 192 0’ s Courtesy of Maureen Fotos, retired teacher Tabor Creek South ENROLLMENT YEAR 1946 1947 1948 1949 1950 GRADE # 1-8 15 1-7 19 2-8 19 1-7 21 1-7 21 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) S TA F F Miss Julia Izowsky Miss Margaret Louise Williams Miss Frances H. Beacham Miss Margaret H. Curtis Miss Ruby Wilkin Miss Laura A. Chrystal Fred W. Flick Mrs. Fannie Kinney Mrs. F. E. Soles Mr. L. A. Quinn Miss Phyllis Decker M. Dupris Miss Alice Ives Mr. Graeme Corson Mrs. Atkin Mr. Wiebe Miss Gertrude Herrling Mrs. Poitras Tabor Creek - Tabor Creek South Elementary POLICE HUNT CLUE TO CAUSE OF SCHOOL FIRE Police here discounted a theory today that total destruction by fire of the Tabor Creek school early Tuesday morning was the work of an arsonist. They said they had found no evidence to support such a supposition but admitted that the fire’s cause was “certainly mysterious”. All that is left of the $3000 30 pupil school today is a cluster of charred and twisted desk supports, part of a stove, and the concrete blocks upon which the building stood. The grass for several yards around the area is burned black in mute evidence of the terrific heat generated when the frame building suddenly burst into flames. The 30 pupils who attended the wooden school from the surrounding farm area are being brought to city schools by bus each day. Mrs. Louis Furano, caretaker of the building, reported she had no idea how the blaze got its start. She said there was no fire burning in the single stove of the building at the time. Mrs. Furano, who lives only a short distance from where the little frame Courtesy of Prince George Citizen school stood, was on the scene shortly October 18, 1951 after flames broke out and she said the fire seemed to have got its start near the roof. She told reporters that she lights a fire in the stove of the building early each morning but that it is out by 10 p.m. Teacher at the school was Graeme Corson who was asleep at the teacherage a short distance away when the sound of crackling timbers was heard. Efforts to fight the fire would have been useless, Mrs. Furano said. By the time sufficient people were on hand, it was a raging inferno. Investigation into the cause of the blaze is still going on. The building has been a landmark for farmers in the Tabor Creek district for more than 20 years. School board officials have announced no plans so far for replacement of the structure. November 16, 1950 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Tabor Creek - Tabor Creek South Elementary T a b or C r eek S c hoo l Cl a ss 192 8 M i ss M. L . W il l i a m s, t ea c h er Courtesy of Maureen Fotos, retired teacher Courtesy of Prince George Citizen July 12, 1928 Tabor Creek - Tabor Creek South Elementary Many Prince George Citizen articles listed under the byline “LOCAL HAPPENINGS” in the 1950’s related community events that took place at Tabor Creek School such as dances, Red Cross meetings, church services, card parties, Christmas concerts and Bible school sessions. Earlier articles had often appeared under the byline “PINEVIEW”. WELL AT TABOR CREEK SCHOOL GETS WATER AT 170 FOOT DEPTH Residents of Pineview are every much elated over the finding of water at the Tabor Creek school house as the result of drilling conducted at the insistence of the provincial government. The striking of water at the school house promises to be more than an isolated development. Lack of water has been one of the chief drawbacks to development in the Pineview district. To solve the problem last fall, Hon. William Atkinson, minister of agriculture, put in with the water diviners, and engaged Harold M. Mathews of Smithers, to make a careful survey. In company with H. S. French, agriculturist, Mr. Mathews went over the greater part of the district, and indicated some thirty-nine points at which he said his rod indicated the presence of water. To put the Mathews claim to the test, The Citizen suggested the agricultural Department undertake the necessary drilling at the school house, and this course has been adopted with highly satisfactory results last week. The drilling was entrusted to Carl Johnson and John I. Dunn. The drill was put down 170 feet, when a strong flow of water was encountered, which rose 100 feet in the six inch casting. Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen June 13, 1939 June 2, 1932 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Water is still a problem in the Blackburn area. Tabor Creek - Tabor Creek South Elementary Memories The school was on one acre in Pineview on Pinko Road. It was a one-room wooden schoolhouse with a woodshed and two outhouses. There was a teacherage, which was a house where the teacher lived. The school had no running water but there was an oil burner, which provided central heating. Later on there was electricity. In the school there were three or four desks in a row with a cannon foot rail. For playground equipment there was a chain swing and wooden teeter-totter. Sports Day was usually held at a farmer’s field and more than one school would attend. The school had a softball team. Snowball fights were allowed and a game called “Ante-I-Over” was played over the school roof. There was a Christmas concert every year. The strap was used daily. My most vivid memory of my time at Tabor Creek School (1959-1960) was playing hockey on the pond behind the school. Ivan W. Anchikoski, former student. Blackburn Zone Student Interviews, 2000. T a b or C r ee k T e a c he r a ge 19 50 BC Archives Collection I-22722 I attended Tabor Creek School from 1953–1959, in grades 1-6. My teachers were Mrs. Akin, Mr. Wiebe, Miss Herrling. There were about 30 students in one class in grades 1 to 6. Students came to school by walking, bikes, horses and cars. It was a one-room school with teacher’s cottage, two outhouses and a barn and woodshed. There was no gym and we packed water from the creek. The school had wood heat and propane lights. There was a Sports Day and Christmas concerts. Everyone, including parents and grandparents and neighbours, attended. My most vivid memory was getting the teacher lost on nature hikes. Students today have way more opportunity than we ever had, especially in sports—travelling to different schools and towns. Dale Pinko, former student. Blackburn Zone Student Interviews, 2000. Tay Elementary 1959-1963 Location Tay School was located in the Fraser Fort George District on Highway 97 North, 15 km past Salmon Valley and 12.5 km left of the highway, near the Salmon River. It was Mile 16 on BC Rail southeast of Summit Lake. History This one-room portable school served the children of the employees of the E. M. & K. Sawmill Courtesy of D orothy G iese, former parent owned by the Giese brothers. Audrey Holliday was the teacher for most of the school’s short life except when she took maternity leave at the end of April in 1959. The highest enrollment was 15 students in 1961. The school was probably named after Tay Creek that flowed through this area. J.A.F. Campbell, a surveyor in Prince George, named the creek after a river in Scotland. Tay Elementary School 1959 Tay Elementary closed when the sawmill was sold in 1963 and the building was moved to Old Summit Lake Road. Tay Christmas Concert 1959 Courtesy of D orothy G iese, former parent Tay Elementary enrollment y ear 1959 1960 1961 1962 grad e # 1-5 8 1-6 11 1-7 15 1-8 14 Source: Public Schools A nnual R eport (s) First Day of School 1963 Kelvin Giese, student Courtesy of D orothy G iese, former parent Memories When the camp was set up and the mill ready to saw lumber, we had a cookhouse. My mother-in-law, Mildred Giese, did the cooking for quite awhile. There were two bunkhouses and ten homes built. Don and Audrey Holliday, Stan and Lily Kruzniar, Edna and Stan Read, Jim and Eileen Goodvin, Mel and Madeline Giese, Elmer and Lola Linfitt, Herman and Mildred Giese, George and Jo-Anne Harrison, Irvin and Vivian Goodvin, and ourselves all lived there. We also had a small local school by the name of Tay. Audrey Holliday was the school teacher and she taught approximately fifteen children. Her husband, Don worked at the sawmill. They were also from Snowden, Saskatchewan. They moved back to Snowden in 1963 and still live there. Dorothy Giese. Life Before the Pulp Mills. Prince George Council of Seniors, 2010. Telachick Elementary 1954-1964 Location The school was located on Telachick Road off Highway 16 West near Cluculz Lake. The school was originally on the highway. History Telachick School was a one-room portable frame building built in 1954. Ethel and Bill Reid, who operated the local country store and gas station, donated the property for the grade 1–8 school. A small teacherage and outhouses were provided and water was supplied from a nearby creek. The first teacher was a local resident, Mrs. Harris, who opened the school until the district hired Mr. Jones. Some of the families with children attending the school were the Reids, Kitchens, McEwans, Taylors, Moes, Millers and Gieses. When the school was closed in 1964, the building was moved to Partridge Heights where it was used as a hall. The 2.95-acre site was sold by the School District in the early 1970’s for $1770. Telachick School & Teacherage 1950’s Courtesy of D wight Kitchen, former student Recess on the Playground 1950’s Courtesy of D wight Kitchen, former student Telachick Elementary enrollment y ear 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 grad e # 1-8 12 1-6 13 1-8 19 1-7 12 1-7 12 1-8 12 1-6 10 1-8 11 1-8 22 1-7 17 Telachick Class 1950’s Mr. Jones, teacher Courtesy of D on Moe, former student Source: Public Schools A nnual R eport (s) Staff Mrs. Harris Mr. Jones Mr. Wiens Miss Mulder Mr. Born Mr. Jenson Mr. Harrison Mr. Wiebe Mrs. Harris Mrs. Cook Mrs. (Fellers) Horth Mr. Jones with Kitchen Family 1950’s Courtesy of D wight Kitchen, former student Tete Jaune Elementary 1926-1975 LOCATION The school was located east of McBride, off Highway 16 East, near the Alberta border. It is near the CNR line. T e t e J a u n e S ch o o l h o u s e 1 9 3 0 ’ s D o r o t h y B a x t e r, t e ac h e r HISTORY The Exploration Place 2003.12.8 The first Tete Jaune school, one of the first portable schools, was at Tete Jaune Cache, Mile 53 of the Grand Trunk Railway. The railway laid track through the Yellowhead Pass in 1911. The site was a temporary construction camp and staging point for the surveyors and railway workers as well as a centre for trappers and miners. The school was part of this tent and boxcar community. The wife of the local magistrate, Mrs. Jowett, was reported teaching in Tete Jaune in 1913-1914. In 1926, a permanent one-room log building was built and Miss Dorothy Baxter was the teacher. T h e F i rs t T e t e J a u n e S c h o o l c i rc a 1 91 1 M i ss M i d d o u g h , t e ac h e r SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Tete Jaune Elementary STAFF Various names and locations of Tete Jaune schools: Tete Jaune School 1926-1947 Tete Jaune North School 1947-1959 Tete Jaune South School 1947-1955 Tete Jaune School 1955-1958 Tete Jaune South School 1959-1966 Tete Jaune School 1970-1975 The school was part of the McBride School District in 1946 and then the Prince George School District in 1970. 1926-1966 Dorothy Baxter Hazel Pritchard Mrs. Bakewell Ada Oddliefson Mrs. McKirdy Sample entries: Tete Jaune Schl Accounts Book 1936-1946 1939 Teacher’s salary for one mon 1 gal. oil for cleaning fl 1941 Teacher’s salary for one mon 1942 Teacher’s nsion 1943 Teacher’s salary for one mon Teacher’s nsion 1944 Reacement  hear stoves 6 cords  wd Teacher’s salary for one mon Teacher’s salary for one mon Government salary grant 1945 Janitor wages Teacher’s salary for one mon Teacher’s nsion 15.00 1.50 12.00 5.60 32.00 7.00 44.00 42.00 37.00 18.50 91.80 7.50 62.00 9.10 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection H al l o w e ’ e n 1 9 3 0 ’ s M i s s B a x t e r, t e ac h e r The Exploration Place 2003.12.8 ENROLLMENT The highest enrollment reported to the Ministry of Education was 28 students in Grades 1-8 in 1955. From 1966-1975, only primary students remained in the oneroom school and the intermediate students were bussed to Valemount Elementary. There were 18 students in Grades 1-3 in 1966. Mrs. McKirdy was the last teacher, when the school closed in 1975. Tete Jaune Elementary SELECTED ITEMS FROM THE TETE JAUNE COLUMN 1951 Several interesting and educational films were shown at school Tuesday, being provided by the Department of Education. Willie Martin donated his projector for the occasion. March 8, 1951 School reopened Monday March 12 after having been closed since February 28 - due to illness and cold weather. The school is so poorly constructed that it cannot be properly heated during temperatures of 15 or 20 below, or far less, if there is a wind. Flu is still rampant in the district. Tete Jaune school chil- T e t e J au n e S ch o o l S t u d e n t s 1 9 4 9 dren and their teacher have put a good deal of time and effort into making a quantity of interesting newspapers entitled Tete Jaune School Flash News. These are for sale for 25 cents each, funds to be used for some sports equipment and amusements for the children. May 3, 1951 The Exploration Place 2003.11.3 Tete Jaune school chil- dren gave a good account of themselves in the sports day at McBride on May 24, coming home with a number of blue ribbons. May 31, 1951 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen March 16 , 1951 T e t e Ja u n e S c h o o l 1 99 1 The Exploration Place 2003.11.5 Thompson Elementary 1927-1946 LOCATION The school was located off Giscome Road, near Blackburn Road, in the Pineview area. T hom pso n El ement a ry Sc hool 200 7 Courtesy of Pat Sexsmith, retired teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY The school, built by J. B. Karls at a cost of $2250 in 1928, was a 24’ x 36’ building with a full size basement. The first teacher was Miss V. Adams who enrolled about 14 students in grades 1-8. Other teachers were: Miss F. L. Richards, Miss Mary MacCallum, Miss Louise Jessop, Miss S. A. (Fledda) Palmer, Miss Carrie J. Whyte, Miss Eleanor Bain, Mrs. Lorna Yardley, Miss I. E. Howard and Mrs. Eunice M. Leonard. Mr. Robert “Bert” Blackburn was a Thompson School Trustee for the entire history of the school. When the school closed in 1946, the enrollment was 20 students in grades 1-7. The students were bussed to Prince George Elementary School. After remaining vacant for two years, the Prince George School District tendered the purchase of the building and grounds in January 1948. The school was purchased by a member of the community and converted into a private residence. It still stands today, on the left side of Giscome Road near Blackburn Elementary School, as seen in the photograph above. Thompson Elementary Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen August 23, 1928 Thompson Elementary Did You Know? I N THE 1930’S AND 1940’S, THE PINEVIEW COMMUNITY HELD SPORTS DAYS EVERY YEAR. THE CARIBOO WOMEN’S INSTITUTE DONATED A SILVER CUP FOR THE ANNUAL EVENT. THE FIRST INTER-SCHOOL SPORTS DAY WAS IN JUNE 1931. THOMPSON, CALE CREEK, TABOR CREEK AND FERNDALE SCHOOLS ALL PARTICIPATED IN THE RACES, JUMPING EVENTS AND BALL GAMES. THOMPSON SCHOOL WON THE CUP ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. R EGULAR DANCES WERE HELD AT THE THOMPSON DISTRICT SCHOOL. THEY BECAME WIDELY KNOWN IN THE AREA AND SOON INCLUDED RESIDENTS FROM FORT ST. JAMES, GISCOME, AND PRINCE GEORGE. T HE THOMPSON SCHOOL BOARD EXPERIENCED GREAT DIFFICULTIES WITH AIRPORT SQUATTERS WHO AVOIDED CITY SCHOOL TAXES BY LIVING IN A RURAL AREA YET DEMANDED THEIR CHILDREN BE EDUCATED AT THE SCHOOL. Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen December 4, 1930 Thompson Elementary THOMPSON SCHOOL ACCOUNTS 1945-1946 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Upper Fraser Elementary 1948-1999 Mission Statement Our prime goal is to maximize the intellectual development of each individual. We will make every effort to enhance the human and social development of each student in our care and to create a secure and motivating environment in which the learning process can take place. Location The school was located at 344640 Upper Fraser Road, between Willow River and McGregor on the Fraser River and CN Railway. Upper Fraser Elementary 1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History The first school was a one-room building built in 1948 by J. N. Dezell & Son of Prince George. In the late 1950’s, there were two one-room structures built side by side and two teacherages on the site. Another classroom was added in 1964 and an addition which included a library and gym were built in 1983. Water and sewer were supplied to the Upper Fraser town site in the 1970’s by Northwood Pulp Mill and this included the school and both teacherages. About half of the students enrolled at Upper Fraser were from the Northwood town site and the others were bussed in from Aleza Lake, MacGregor and Sinclair Mills. Enrollment varied from an average of 30 students to over 100 students in the 1970’s and 1980’s. Northwood shut down the mill and the school closed in June 1999. Students were bussed to Giscome Elementary. Upper Fraser Elementary enrollment y ear 1948 1950 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 1998 grad e # 1-7 30 1-9 25 1-8 19 1-8 35 1-7 90 1-7 95 K-7 71 K-7 100 K-7 70 K-7 30 K-7 35 K-5 13 Source: Public Schools A nnual R eport (s) K-7 Upper Fraser Students 1978 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Principals A be Siemens Monty Woodley D avid Bond A rt Webb R ob Howardson Lorne Brown Barb Osten Brian Pepper Kerry Bergeron D an D omes Mike Moore Upper Fraser Staff 1992 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection K-5 Upper Fraser Students 1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Upper Fraser Elementary Did You Know? I n 1982–1983, an addition to the school with a library and a full size gymnasium was built. Northwood Pulp & Paper provided the materials and the wooden beams for the modern gymnasium that was larger than many Prince George city schools. Funding for the project was also provided by the Regional District of Fraser Fort George and a provincial B.C. Recreational Facilities Fund. The gym was used by employees of Northwood and was the centre of many community activities. Lorne Brown was the principal of the new facility. Jolyon Briggs was the architect, Mr. G. Ingalls was chair of the School Board and Mr. A. Myhre was the superintendent. Upper Fraser Opening March 30,1983 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection D uring the late 1940’s, many small rural schools were consolidated. As each small school closed along the Upper Fraser Road, a bus was provided to bring the students to Upper Fraser Elementary. The bus drivers were often people in the community who knew the treacherous, winding, winter gravel roads and muddy spring potholes. The bus was often parked in the driveway of the driver’s home when not in use. I n the 1990’s, the school offered an Adult Learning Centre Program that helped adults complete G.E.D. and Adult Dogwood diplomas. This was a cooperative effort with Prince George School District Continuing Education services, a provincial government Community Skills Centre initiative and Northwood Pulp. Rose Faucher, bus driver 1985 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Upper Fraser Elementary I n 1982, students buried a time capsule near the foundation of the new school site. Samples of student work, photographs and other memorabilia were stored in a sealed container. It is unknown if the capsule was recovered when the school closed in 1999. The old schools are shown in the background of this photograph. Upper Fraser Mascot 1992 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Time Capsule 1982 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I n the spring of 1994, Debra Lesiuk, Parent Advisory Council president, crocheted a moose head and gave it to the principal, Dan Domes, as a joke. It was a replica of the school logo that appeared on T-shirts and school stationery. The humorous moose logo had been created several years before by an Upper Fraser student in a school contest. The stuffed creation soon became part of the school’s tradition and was displayed in the main hallway on top of the Activities Upper Fraser Science Fair 1986 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection trophy case. Science Fair Ribbon SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Upper Fraser Elementary Purden Lake Picnic June 1980 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Awards Day 1985 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Chess Club Button 1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Barkerville Field Trip 1980’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection District Education Showcase 1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ski Field Trip 1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Upper Fraser Elementary Memories It was mid-August 1951 and I was setting off from Vancouver to accept the challenge of my first teaching assignment in Prince George. A month earlier, I had received an offer from Mr. Bob Gracey, Secretary Treasurer, on behalf of the Inspector of Schools, Mr. Ray Williston. I immediately accepted as my heart was set on teaching in a one-room rural school. My assignment was to Upper Fraser or Mile 104 on the CN railroad line east of Prince George. The school: one-room, grades 1–8 with 46 pupils, no electric lights, water or indoor plumbing and heated by a double oil-drum heater that took small logs. On arrival in Prince George, I immediately sought out Mr. Gracey who gave me instructions for travel, a records book for collecting textbook rental money, a new classroom register, and the name of my contact in Upper Fraser. I did not meet Mr. Williston. The next day I departed Prince George on the regular passenger train, arrived safely at my destination and my adventure in rural education began. I taught my pupils and they taught me. The fall season passed quickly and before I knew it we were preparing for our Christmas Concert. Winter came on with tremendous cold spells immediately followed by heavy snowfalls. The concert was a tremendous success; my teaching career was firmly established. I was an overnight success as a teacher in the community. I still hadn’t met Mr. Williston. Spring came slowly, but soon the days lengthened as the weather grew warmer. Now we were into Spring Breakup. Spring Breakup consisted of melting snow, mud, frost boils, mud and finally dust. Now was the time for travelers; salesmen, parish priests, etc., – but still no Mr. Williston. About this time, all schools along the line received a directive from Mr. Gracey stating that under no circumstances were we to allow any salesmen in our schools. A few days passed and my pupils and I were at task when a knock was heard at the door. There stood this gentleman dressed in a light weight parka, a brief case in hand and a great smile on his face, who asked if he could come into the school. Before he could introduce himself I quickly blurted out, “I am sorry but you can’t come in as I am not allowed to have any salesmen in the school”. His smile immediately broadened as he responded, “I am sure you will let me enter your classroom as I am Ray Williston, Inspector of Schools”. I was speechless but soon regained my composure and welcomed him into my classroom. I soon relaxed and we had a great day together. I had finally met Mr. Ray Williston, Inspector of Schools. Jack Lowe, retired Superintendent. B.C. Superintendent Seniors’ Association Newsletter, June 2001. Recess On Jungle Gym 1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection West Lake Elementary 1950-1963 LOCATION The school was located on West Lake Road, 24 km from Prince George, off the Blackwater Road and Highway 16 West. Wes t Lake Schoo l 1 950 ’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY Temporary quarters were used for the grade 1-4 students in the first year of operation. In 1951, a portable one-room school, with a capacity of 25 students, and a teacherage were built by the Prince George maintenance department on a two-acre site on West Lake Road near the Fyfe Lake Forest Road. The first teachers were Pearl Bolton, Esther Miller and Donna Pollock. The first rural elected school board representative was Henry Bachand. A West Lake Parent Teachers’ Association was formed in the fall of 1951. Increased forest activity in the area prompted rapid growth in student enrollment and an additional portable was moved onto the site in the 1952-1953 school year. Some of the first families to attend the school were: Bachand, Gray, Castonguay, Chartier, Kohlen, St. Armand, Loewen, LeFebvre, Skalicky, Dondale and Dalziel. Due to low enrollment, the school closed in June 1963 and, unfortunately, all the windows were smashed in July 1963, which prompted the removal of the buildings from the site. The site was sold for $200 to F. E. Williams of McBride Crescent, Prince George in July 1969 with the stipulation that the board had a twenty-year option to buy back the property if it was necessary to rebuild the school at a future date. West Lake Elementary ENROLLM E N T YEAR 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 GRADES # 1-4 9 1-7 26 1-8 40 K-8 25 1-8 44 1-8 33 1-8 35 1-8 32 1-8 32 1-8 29 1-7 26 1-8 22 1-7 9 E st h e r M i l le r , te a c h e r Wes t Lak e Sc hool 1950 ’s Courtesy of Carmen (LeFebvre) Foucher, former student Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Wes t Lak e Scho ol C l as s 19 52 Courtesy of Henriette (Bachand) Bratten, former student Wes t Lake Schoo l C la ss 195 3 P ear l B olt on, t eac her Courtesy of Carmen (LeFebvre) Foucher, former student West Lake Elementary LETTER FROM BOARD TO SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION February 1951 Wildwood Elementary 8400 Hart Highway, Prince George “If You Believe It, You Can Achieve It” 1969-2003 MISSION STATEMENT To promote knowledge, physical development and positive attitudes so that students will develop into life-long learners. HISTORY W i ld w o o d El e me n ta ry 19 75 Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher Wildwood Elementary opened in 1969. In late September, students and teachers, carrying their supplies, trekked from their temporary homes at Austin Road Elementary and the Kelly Road Annex to their new school. It was originally a 1197 sq. m. open area school with eight classrooms, a library and office. In 1972, a 1278.4 sq. m. addition was made along the back of the school. It included five walled and windowless classrooms, a learning assistance room, a gymnasium and a storage room. Later, all the open area classrooms were walled in and a resource room and computer room were created as fewer classrooms were needed. The library and office remained open until the 1990’s when the office area was glassed in. In 1974-1975, Springwood Elementary was built and the primary students living on the other side of the Hart Highway from Wildwood began attending there. The student population of Wildwood declined to under 200 in the 1990’s as the neighbourhood became more mature. When Heather Park Middle School opened in 2000, Wildwood became a K-5 school with a population of fewer than 150 students. In 2003, the school was closed when a severe problem with the foundation was discovered and it was deemed too expensive to repair. The students were moved to Springwood Elementary. Wildwood Elementary PRINCI PAL S M o n t y Wo o d l e y G e o ff E a c o t t A r t We b b D a v i d Bo n d B i l l Vo t h Te d D a n y l u k K e n To d d Carol Brain Staff 1969 -19 70 Courtesy of Bev Manklow, retired teacher The first staff was: Sandra Sadler, Maureen Giffin, MaryLou Cress, Bev (Peirce) Manklow, Val McIntyre, Bill Tuomi, Lorne Thompson and principal Monty Woodley.. Other early teachers were Helen (Chaprun) Trainor, Dianne Rodney, Terry Smith, Diane (Perrault) Taylor, Jan Gray, Marci (Hogan) Fournier, Marg Giroux and Ann Croft. ENROLLME N T YEAR 1969 1974 1977 1981 1985 1989 1993 1997 2000 2001 2002 GRADES # 1-7 205 K-7 345 K-7 426 K-7 335 K-7 234 K-7 213 K-7 196 K-7 185 K-5 129 K-5 132 K-5 133 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Cl as s o f 2 000 Mo vi n g t o He a th e r P ar k M i dd le S ch o o l SD 57 Education Heritage Collection ACTIVITIES Wildwood Elementary Throughout the years, the staff organized various extracurricular activities for the students. These included a Library Club, a Chess Club, a Newspaper Club (in 1995/96, the OJ Simpson trial was a big story), a Student Council, Peer Helpers and Peer Tutors. Stude nt Counc il 2000 -20 01 Lib ra ry Cl ub 198 7 Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection A school yearbook was first produced by a few parents in 1985/86. It contained student photos, student work and summaries of the year’s activities. The school continued producing a yearbook until 2003 and in later years student work as well as numerous photos of the activities that the students had been involved in throughout the year were included. Baby photos of the grade 7, and later grade 5, students, along with tidbits of information on each student, were a feature started in 1997/98. In 1976, Kris Nellis began an intermediate choir, which performed at the school’s annual Christmas concert and its occasional Spring Concert. The choir also participated in School District 57’s Singfest which was an adjudicated choral festival with a public evening performance. In 1982, the choir undertook the ambitious project of performing the operetta “Snow White and Seven Dwarfs” for parents and students. I n te rm e di a te Ch o i r 198 0’s Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher Sn o w W h i t e O p e r e tt a 198 2 Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher Wildwood Elementary In 1986/87, the students in grades 4-7 held two sock hops to raise money for Rick Hansen and cancer research. The grade 1/2 teacher had a bubblegum machine in her class and the money raised went to Rick Hansen. Field Trips Over the years, students were taken on numerous field trips in order to add authentic experiences to the curriculum. These included Barkerville, Fort St. James and the Fraser Fort George Museum (now Exploration Place). Bar ker vil le 1 990 ’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Fr ase r For t Georg e M useu m 1 990 ’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Fo rt St . Ja me s 19 90’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Sports Wildwood Elementary From the 1980’s to the mid 1990’s, the school’s sports teams were called the Wildwood Warriors with first an Aboriginal chief and later a Roman soldier as the logo. The mascot later became the Wildwood Wildcats. The Wil dc ats Banner l ate 19 90’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection School teams included volleyball, basketball, floor hockey, wrestling, cross-country running and the relays at Massey/Masich Stadium. G ir ls Bas ket b al l 1998 -19 99 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection W il dw o o d W ar ri o r s Rel ay Team 19 90’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Wr est ling T our nam ent at K ell y R oad 199 8 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Wildwood Elementary Other special sports events over the years included the Terry Fox Run, Winter Fun Days, Sports Days and Jump Rope for Heart. In 1986/87, the students raised over $2000 in pledges for the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Sport s Day R i b bo ns SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Wi nt er Fun Da ys 199 0’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Jum p Rope for Hea rt 19 98- 1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Te r ry F o x R u n 199 8 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Wildwood Elementary Did You Know? I N 1987/88, ANGELA WILSON WON FIRST PLACE FOR GRADE 4 AND 5’S IN THE KINETTE HERITAGE DAY ESSAY CONTEST. W ILDWOOD STUDENTS ATTENDED THE FIRST CANADIAN NORTH- ERN CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL IN FORT GEORGE PARK IN MAY 1988. THE DAY WAS COOL BUT THEY ENJOYED THE NUMEROUS ACTIVITIES AND A SHOW INSIDE ONE OF THE LARGE TENTS ERECTED ON THE GRASS. Gr ad e 5 Stud ents at C hild ren’s Fest iv al 198 8 Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher Wildwood Elementary I N MARCH 2001, GRADE 4 STUDENT CODY O’DONNELL WON A BRONZE MEDAL IN THE 25TH ANNUAL CENTRAL INTERIOR SCIENCE EXHIBITION FOR HIS PROJECT “THE WATER PRESSURE TEST.” THE ACCOMPANYING CERTIFICATE SAID “CONGRATULATIONS ON BEING SELECTED AS A REPRESENTATIVE OF A REGIONAL SCIENCE FAIR.” Cod y O’Donnel l & Bron ze M eda l 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection G LENN MCNAB BEGAN TEACHING AT WILD- WOOD ELEMENTARY IN SEPTEMBER 1974. WITHIN A FEW YEARS, HE DEVELOPED A SLOWLY PROGRESSING DEGENERATIVE MUSCLE DISEASE. HE BEGAN WALKING WITH A METRE STICK NICKNAMED “WOODY” AND SOON HAD TO RELY ON HIS STUDENTS FOR ANY LIFTING. HE USED AN OVERHEAD PRO- JECTOR AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE AND HAD STUDENTS WRITE ON THE BOARD WHEN NEEDED. BY 1984 GLENN REALIZED THAT HE COULD NO LONGER CONTINUE TO TEACH. AN AWARD WAS CREATED IN HIS HONOUR AND WAS PRESENTED ANNUALLY UNTIL 1992 TO STUDENTS WHO DISPLAYED EXTRAORDINARY MATURITY, OUTSTANDING CITIZENSHIP, EXCELLENT WORK HABITS AND AN UNSELFISH WILLINGNESS TO G le n n Mc Na b Awa rd 198 4-19 92 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HELP OTHERS. THESE WERE QUALITIES THAT GLENN GREATLY ADMIRED. AS OF 2011, GLENN RESIDES IN VICTORIA. Wildwood Elementary Memories Woodman “Woody” began his education in my grade one classroom at Wildwood Elementary in September, 1972. He was four weeks old and I had rescued him from a dog on the Labour Day weekend. Geoff Eacott, the principal, kindly allowed Woody to stay in a shoe box on my desk as he required medical attention every 3-4 hours. Woody continued to attend school after he recovered and worked hard to gently meet the emotional needs of many of my grade one students. Diane (Perrault) Taylor 2011, teacher W o o d m a n “ W o o d y ” th e Ca t Courtesy of Diane (Perrault) Taylor, retired teacher In 1974/75,Wildwood was growing in population and Springwood Elementary was scheduled to open across the highway within a few months. Rather than go on shift, we organized four classrooms in the gym and one in the library area. Knowing that four classrooms of students could generate a lot of noise, we tore off a number of long sheets from the school’s rolls of coloured construction paper and hung them from the girders in the gym. This did help to buffer some of the sounds that were reverberating around the gymnasium. Then we had our early term visitation from the fire department. As I toured the school with them, I explained what we were doing in the gym and took them down to show them. Upon looking at our creation, the Fire Marshall announced, “If the paper is not down within the hour, I will be closing the school.” Apparently there was a fire concern. Needless to say we complied and education continued uninterrupted. Geoff Eacott 2011, retired principal Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen September 24, 1969 Wildwood Elementary Memories In December 1985, while using the staff washroom, I removed the lid to the toilet tank to try and stop the water from running since jiggling the handle wasn’t helping. I immediately dropped the lid on the floor and it shattered. I got a ribbing but the principal said he would order a replacement. When it arrived, the staff signed it and gave it to me all wrapped up. Included with the staff messages was the signature of one of the assistant superintendents, “John” Stevens, who happened to be visiting the school. Other messages included “Keep your lid on, Kris!” “Please don’t fall to pieces too often” “You’re a smashing success” “A very shattering experience” and “Have a cracked Xmas.” I brought the lid home to show my husband and to photograph it before erasing the funny messages and installing it very carefully onto the toilet. Kris Nellis 2011, retired teacher Re pla c e m en t T o i le t Li d w i th Me ssa g es 19 85 Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher Stephen was a member of one of my early grade 7 classes at Wildwood. You could tell that he would become a big man, but at age 12 he was still growing and, while he was not fat, you could tell that he might face obesity as an adult if he didn’t watch his diet. He suffered from more than his share of acne, showed no athletic skill, and displayed little enthusiasm for anything that I taught. On rare occasions he revealed both intelligence and perception that were rare among grade 7 boys, but by and large he kept his own counsel. Stephen did possess one talent: he created quite wonderful pencil drawings, but just of one subject — army tanks. I doubt that he had ever seen a tank, but his numerous drawings indicated that he thought of nothing but tanks from the moment he awoke and went begrudgingly to school until he went to sleep at night. I imagine that he dreamed of tanks, too. At a meeting with the principal and me, his mother expressed concern about Stephen, but clearly was no more able to light an intellectual fire under him than we were. Stephen made a modest effort to do better following our visit with his mother, but, mostly, he continued to draw tanks until the end of June. Wildwood Elementary I lost track of Stephen almost immediately. He had been neither at the head of his class nor a troublemaker; I might never have thought of him again, except for an encounter some five or six years later. I was sitting at my desk in the same classroom that I had taught in when Stephen was in my class. It was half an hour or so after school, and I was preparing lessons for the next day. Someone came through the door and I looked up. And up. And up. A tall, well-built, handsome young man was standing in front of me. He was wearing an immaculate crisp uniform of the Canadian army. Smiling, he held out his hand and said, “Hi Mr. Ingraham, remember me? I’m Stephen.” His handshake was that of a self-confident, professional soldier. I don’t recall whether I recognized Stephen immediately, but his easy conversation soon jogged my memory: “Remember how I used to draw tanks all the time? Well, guess what? I’m now a tank mechanic in the army.” He had realized his goal, which was to live among, in, and for tanks. He even got to drive them. And he had matured into a polite, friendly, well-spoken, athletic-appearing young man who had been well camouflaged in his adolescent body and mind. On that day, Stephen taught me an important lesson: one’s best days as a teacher may occur years after a student leaves your classroom, when you encounter them and learn that they are no longer just a former student, but an adult and a peer. Bob Ingraham 2011, retired teacher When school first opened, because there was no natural gas connection to its furnaces, the building was decidedly cool. On at least one occasion, students were so chilly that classes were cancelled and children were sent home. Teachers were required to endure and shivered in their jackets as they gathered to plan together. Bev Manklow 2012, retired teacher I nv it a t i o n to Pa rent SD 57 Ed Appreci ucation He a ti o n T ritage Colle e a 2000 ction Wildwood Elementary Farew el l S ong Ju ne 200 3 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Willow River Elementary 1914-1965 LOCATION The school was located east of Prince George on Giscome Road, off the Yellowhead Highway. The community was Mile 127 on the CN railway line. HISTORY Fi r s t W i ll ow Ri v er Sc h ool hou se Willow River Recreational Association 1985 The first school was built in 1914-1915 on four acres of land near the edge of town. There were 24 students enrolled in grades 1-10 with Mr. W. W. C. O’Neill as the teacher. It was a one-room log building, 48’ x 24’, with windows on one side only. There was also a two-room teacherage, two outdoor toilets and a woodshed on the property. The building, furniture and land were valued at $1500. Water was supplied from a creek up the road. In the 1930’s and 1940’s, there were often over forty students with only one teacher in grades 1-8. The school pictured below was the second school, built in 1948 near the heart of town and was used until it closed in 1965. It was a two-story building with two classrooms and a basement and was built of lumber rather than logs. There was a ball diamond out back and the basement was used for gym on rainy days. Every morning, the teacher rang the hand bell and it could be heard all over town. When the school closed, the students attended Giscome Elementary School. In 2011, the parents in the Giscome area approached the Ministry to build a new school in Willow River rather than use the portable buildings at Giscome. Will ow R iv er E lem ent ar y 1950 ’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Willow River Elementary ENROLLME N T YEAR 1945 1946 1947 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 GRADES # 1-8 42 1-8 30 1-8 36 1-7 56 1-8 51 1-8 51 1-7 45 1-9 62 1-8 60 1-8 52 1-8 61 K-8 61 1-8 67 1-6 54 1-6 51 1-6 50 1-7 63 1-7 57 1-6 57 1-2 29 P r i ma r y C la s s 1963 M r s. O’ Ro u r k e , te a c he r Willow River Recreational Association 1985 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) G r a de 4 - 8 C la s s 1 9 5 0 Courtesy of Lillian (Strom) Coulling, former student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Willow River Elementary DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Monthly Report February 1946 Each teacher in a rural public school was required to complete a monthly report to the provincial Superintendent of Education and the local Board of School Trustees. The attendance information was also kept in a Register of Pupils. SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Willow River Elementary STAFF Mr. William W. C. O’Neill Miss L. Mitchell Miss Margaret L. Williams Miss L. F. Cowdell Mrs. E. Emmet Mr. G. G. Allum Mr. James C. Long Mr. H. B. Jones Mrs. Minnie A. Egerton Mr. G. S. Robinson Miss Betty B. Edgcumbe Miss Enid Sproat Miss F.M. (Peggy) Bown Mrs. Mulmer Mrs. Ida M. McKague Miss Ruth Campbell Div. 2 Cl as s 1 955 Mr s . M oor e , t ea c h er The Exploration Place 2004.2.622 Mrs. L. K. Gildner Mr. M. M. Linke Miss Orr Mrs. Marguerite MacDonald Mr. Martin Mrs. Moore Mr. Abrahams Mr. I. Schaber Mrs. Charlottte Lapp Mrs. McGillivray Mrs. Elizabeth O’Rourke Miss Hubbard Mr. Arnold Wied Mr. Nightingale Willow River Elementary W i l lo w R i ve r Ca s h B o o k 194 3- 194 6 Ca n c el le d Ch e q ue N o. 3 5 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection W i l lo w Ri ve r M a c L ea n M et h o d o f W r i t in g Ce r ti f i c a t e Courtesy of Interview with Carl Strom, RTA Oral History 2002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Willow River Elementary WILLOW RIVER CASH BOOK 1944-1946 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Willow River Elementary Memories The first school I attended was on North Coonsey Street. It was a one-room, grades 1 – 8 school. Miss Bowen was the teacher. For the first half hour after lunch she read to us. It was “Treasure Island”. I know I didn’t miss any afternoons because I wanted to know more about the story. In the spring we always had a sports day. One year, mother made us and our best friends and neighbours outfits from flour sacks. We played scrub ball. We would start in the morning, continue at recess, noon and after school. In winter, it was sliding and skiing. The little hill beside the school was iced from the creek and, with a good piece of cardboard, we were ready for a good ride. I’ve often said, “We might forget our books but not ever cardboard.” I truly believe all schools should be built next to a hill. Sp o rt s D a y 1 9 4 8 Courtesy of Lillian (Strom) Coulling, former student One noon hour, I broke my arm while the teacher was in the teacherage having lunch. We looked at my misshapen arm and headed to the sawmill to the first aid man. I think I was on my way to the hospital before the teacher knew what had happened! We were independent! Lillian (Strom) Coulling 2001, student M r s. Ma c D ona l d ’ s C la s s 194 4 Courtesy of Lillian (Strom) Coulling, former student Willow River Elementary SOCIAL IN AID OF WILLOW RIVER SCHOOL On Saturday evening, 13th November, an enjoyable function was held in Willow River in order to raise some necessary funds for furnishing the local school with some needful supplies. The gathering took the form of a concert by the school children, followed by a basket social and dance. The singing and reciting by the children were very much appreciated by the audience. After the concert, the baskets were auctioned and in the short space of a few minutes over fifty dollars were realized. At the conclusion of the concert, a hearty vote of thanks was extended by the audience and scholars to Mrs. Brown, accompanist of the evening. Votes of thanks were also given to Mrs. Brand, Mr. Gair and Mr. Giovarnini for their hard work inconnection with decorations. The artistically decorated hall and the beautiful dresses of the ladies and children blended well and was a sight long to be remembered in the annuals of Willow River. November 20, 1915 Courtesy of The Prince George Herald Cl ass 193 0’s Willow River Recreation Association 1985 WILLOW RIVER The double-header hockey game was played on Saturday between Willow River School and Sinclair Mills School. The local team won both games 11-1 and 5-3. March 8, 1956 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Winton Elementary Junior Secondary 1894 9th Avenue, Prince George 1965-1974 Winton School 1960’s History Exploration Place P982.43.19 The name “Winton” was coined as the school was originally located in army barracks on the corner between WINnipeg and EdmonTON streets. In 1969, the students moved into the Duchess Park building at 9th and Edmonton Street. In this building, there were eight classrooms, industrial education shops, home economic classrooms and a gymnasium. In 1965, special classes for mentally slow learners from Connaught, Harwin, KGV and Central Fort George schools merged with occupational classes at Duchess Park Junior Secondary School. The students were bussed into a central location that became known as Winton School. Programs at Winton were designed for students with learning disabilities and students that were not suited to academic programming. The classes were small and a life skills curriculum was emphasized. In the morning, students concentrated on language and communication skills, consumer mathematics and community citizenship. In the afternoons, students attended industrial education, home economics, physical education and art classes. Woodwork, metalwork, automotive, cooking and sewing training were included in the afternoon programs. A three-year occupational or vocational program in the junior secondary section also offered on-the-job training and work experience. This was the forerunner of the Pre-Employment Program (PEP) still offered in many secondary schools. Students were given a school leaving certificate at the end of grade 10. In 1970, Aurora Elementary School became an annex of Winton and a hearing impaired program was also added. Winton was the only school in the province to centralize special needs programs. In June 1974, Winton was phased out as the district adopted a philosophy of integration. The elementary students returned to their neighbourhood schools with support staff and three classes of junior high students were transferred to a (SLR) Special Learning Resources program at Prince George Secondary School. Winton Elementary Junior Secondary enrollment y ear 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 # 224 300 309 279 213 336 423 175 155 Source: Public Schools A nnual R eport (s) First Winton Staff 1965 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Principals Henry Lunn D ale Fiddick Tony Hartnell R on Wall Keith R . Cameron Tom Baker (PG SS) Winton Graduation 1969 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Back: Mr. Horwood, Trev Sterling, Ms. Scott, Jeanne A nderson, Ms. Mackenzie, Margaret Evans, Mr. Spragg Front: Verna Wilson, Pam Barmettler, D ale Fiddick, Mrs. Johnson, Henry Lunn, R osemary Phillips, Ms. Tives, Miss Hector, Hilda Wood Winton Elementary Junior Secondary Winton Provides Special Program Winton school students were given a raw deal. An article in “The Citizen” May 11 sought to make a comparison of specialized training in local schools but unintentionally gave the impression that Winton School was for retarded children. This is not so. Winton is a school that has a specially designed program for children not suited to the academic school curriculum. Students at Winton receive training to suit their own particular abilities. These students are neither mentally deficient nor retarded. They simply are not suited to academic programming. The occupation program in the Junior Secondary section of Winton School is designed to offer students a broad knowledge of employment opportunities available to them upon completion of their course. Under the Winton program, senior students spend several days a week on various types of employment, actual on-the-job training, to enable them to obtain a broad picture of employment. The three-year occupational program is designed so that students in the second year spend two days a week, during the year, on various types of employment. In the third year, the student spends three days a week on the job. There are six on-the-job training periods a year, giving students the opportunity to try 12 separate types of employment. Presently, about 60 business concerns in the city are accepting Winton students for on-the-job experience. May 17, 1966 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Communication Skills Development Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen D ecember 4, 1970 Winton Elementary Junior Secondary Did You Know? W inton School industrial education students made wooden frames for Emily Carr prints donated by the British Columbia Parent-Teachers’ Association during British Columbia’s Centennial year. These prints were hung in all the schools in the district. W inton School industrial education students were commissioned to build small looms and accessories for the newly formed Prince George Weavers and Spinners Guild in 1974. Some of these looms are still used by the Studio 2880 group today. The students worked under the supervision of Trev Sterling, industrial education teacher. I n 1967, home economics students at Winton School contributed their sewing skills for the year to the Red Cross. They made baby clothes that were distributed by the Red Cross to hospitals in Prince George and other communities in British Columbia. The project involved about 40 layettes for needy mothers. The students worked under the direction of Mrs. Rosemary Phillips, home economics teacher. Framing Prints Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen May 20, 1967 Red Cross Sewing 1966-1967 Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen February 6, 1967 Winton Elementary Junior Secondary Activities The students at Winton published a first yearbook in 1973-1974. The photographs on this page illustrate some of the activities students took part in during that year. Field Trips Cracking a Metalwork Safe Bottle Drives Pizza Anyone? Winton Elementary Junior Secondary Memories In 1965, the primary area had three levels. Verna Wilson taught level one and I taught level two. We had small, multi-aged classes of fifteen or so students which seemed like a dream when regular classes were 40 or more. But nearly every child was working at a different level! And many children were from disadvantaged homes or had behaviour problems along with their learning disabilities. I remember one student who lived in a small one-bedroom house with 14 other people. No wonder she was always tired and had trouble with schoolwork! With my lack of special needs training, my class was run like a regular classroom, except for the number of reading and arithmetic groups! We also did much work on life skills and behaviour problems. The others on staff were a great help. We had many early morning informal meetings. My expectations were high for classroom politeness and work skills and the children generally met my expectations. But it was fortunate that I only took one sick day off. My substitute phoned at noon and told me I had to come back! She was in tears because she couldn’t manage my class and I was in tears because I was sick. I don’t recall if it was Henry Lunn or Dale Fiddick that sat in the class the rest of the day! One of my worst memories was when I was called on to strap one of my students. He was a small 8 or 9-year-old boy who was constantly in trouble on the playground and had been previously strapped by Henry Lunn and Dale Fiddick. Henry thought perhaps if I gave the strap to him, it would be more meaningful. I remember only one swat, but I was so upset and so was my student. Later, after school, I had a phone call from his mother telling me all the horrid things she would do to me! In February of 1966, I married and became Mrs. Barmettler. For most of my students I went from Miss Fisher to Mrs. Fisher. About a year ago, while walking my dog early in the morning, I ran into an older man from a special care facility. We said hello and talked a bit. He said, “You know, I went to Winton School.” In surprise, I said, “Oh, I taught at Winton School!” He replied, “I know. You were my teacher.” And I had been - 47 years ago! I don‘t know how he recognized me but, to him, I am still “Mrs. Fisher”! Pam (Fisher) Barmettler 2012, retired teacher Emma Russell in Primary Classroom Courtesy of the Prince G eorge Citizen D ecember 4, 1970 Winton Elementary Junior Secondary The theory of special education at that time was you find out where they were in their skill levels for Math and English and you start from that point and you take them as far as they can go. And this was the reason for grouping them into skill levels in the basic subjects. We had a wonderful time with material because everything we had was handpicked. There were no grade-level indications in the books so that we could fit the type of exercises and skills to the students. Like the Math textbook. It might be a grade 6 level math textbook that we were using, but it didn’t say grade 6. It was just the Math text. And it worked very well. The same with readers. We had sets of readers and all sorts of graded material, like the SRA kits. Jeanne Anderson at Winton 1973 Winton Yearbook 1973-1974 The students were brought in from the immediate district, none past Miworth or Blackburn. They had been tested by a resident psychologist at the board office and graded out as to their Math and English abilities so that when the school started, Henry (Lunn) spent a lot of time going through the records and organizing them into ability-level classes. The numbers at the time were a maximum of fifteen in a class. These students were classified as being at least two years behind their age grade-level and they were not functioning well in a regular class. In all the school, we did not have severely handicapped children or what are now classified as mentally challenged or physically challenged. They were just students who had not been able to keep up, sometimes through illness, sometimes through moving around, sometimes through second language difficulties. They had not been able to cope and progress in the normal classroom so they were separated and put into these groupings where they could work at the level that they were capable of doing. They were closely enough tested so that they could work together and they were all, generally at that time, working from the same textbook. So to me, it was a very pleasant place to teach because you had children generally that were Winton Elementary Junior Secondary anxious to learn and were very pleased to be able to do what was put in front of them. We did not develop any great behaviour problems but it seems today that when these children are left in their regular classroom they don’t get any attention for their skills so they get it through developing behaviour problems. One aspect of work experience included preparation for clerking in stores or being cashiers in small places. It was necessary to teach all of the students, who were eligible for work experience, to handle a cash register and to make change in the proper fashion. So we were very quickly provided with a cash register and the teaching of mathematics for a few months became making up problems and I guess we planned it as “playing store”. They thought that was quite fun because it was a learning experience for them. So one student would be the customer, one would be handling the cash register, and they would have a set list of little problems which they had to work out. It was quite a demanding thing, because the student had to learn to take a purchase, such as something that cost two dollars and forty-nine cents and the customer would hand you a five-dollar bill. They had to able to give change, without the help of a calculator or cash register that gave you the answer to the problem. Cash Register Training Winton Yearbook 1973-1974 Automotive Work Experience Winton Yearbook 1973-1974 Well, I think the “change-making” for the clerical was a good deal for their own lifestyle as they learned to handle money well. Some of the older ones went to work in larger stores like Canadian Tire, Woolco and Kmart and, because there were other things to do and the places were big enough to put them into jobs like shelf arranging, stocktaking and replenishing the stock as it was required, they did work in other departments. We had two girls who went to that type of work in Canadian Tire, and I think are still there. The boys went to some of the mechanical shops like autobody shops, machine shops, tire shops, where they could handle it. I had one boy that was very successful at the auto body shop at Fred Walls. He learned to be a “detail man” and was quite well respected there. He apparently had artistic skills as well as the hand skills to do that sort of thing. Jeanne Anderson. An Interview with Jeanne Anderson. RTA Oral History, 2002. Woodpecker Elementary 1923-1950 Location The school was located near the community hall on Highway 97 South, 45 km from Prince George between Hixon and Strathnaver. It was near the Fraser River and the BC Railway. Woodpecker School 1998 History Courtesy of June Chamberland SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The one-room, grade 1-8, log school was built in 1923 with Miss C. Frith as the first teacher. Hazel and Jim Bell, Sylvia and Vane Colebank, Betty Down and Bill Bricker were the first students. Other early settlers with students attending school were the Thorps, Widdis’s, Baehrs and Hutchinsons. The school population often dipped below the required number of pupils and was constantly in danger of closing. When it closed in 1950, the Thorp brothers bussed the children to Hixon and then bussed the high school students from the entire area to school in Prince George. The caved-in remains of the school can still be seen to the right of the highway. Early pioneers claim that the name “Woodpecker” was coined as the sound of firewood being chopped for sternwheeler fuel at Woodpecker Landing which was heard up and down the riverbank. Woodpecker Class 1920’s Our Heritage: History of Hixon, Woodpecker, Strathnaver 1969 Woodpecker Elementary Woodpecker’s School Marm Made Long Trip on Her Wheel enrollment y ear 1923 1945 1946 1948 1949 1950 grad e # 1-8 6 1-5 9 2-6 10 1-8 11 1-8 12 1-8 12 Source: Public Schools A nnual R eport (s) Staff Miss C. M. Frith Mrs. A da A shby Miss Irene D . Smith Miss N. S. Legge Miss Elsie G . G reenidge Miss Farquhar Miss E. A . Fawcett Miss R uth M. R obinson Mrs. Ida G . Coop Miss E. J. Murphy Miss Margaret Collinson M. M. Linke I. Schaber Miss A nne M. Baehr Mrs. A. Ashby, the teacher in the Woodpecker School, hung up the B.C. Cycling record in making her return from the coast to resume her classes at Woodpecker. She covered the distance in fifteen days, including two and one half days in rest. Between Hope and Merritt, she was forced to take to the railway grade but, for the rest of the way, she had a road of some sort. She reports the chief annoyance on the trip came from herds of cattle. Many of the animals were fired to join company with her while others persisted in blocking her progress. Mrs. Ashby has had a lot of cycling experience in England and is open to consider any challenges which the ladies of the interior may send along. October 22, 1925 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Woodpecker Classs 1937 Miss Farquhar, teacher Courtesy of Fran D own Woodpecker Elementary Memories I would like to reminisce about my year at the one-room rural school at Woodpecker in 1945. That year, there were nine pupils in grades 1-5. The school was a rustic log structure with a barrel wood heater in one corner and a table with two water buckets in the other corner. These were filled each morning from a nearby creek by the lady janitor. At the rear of the property stood a barn where two of the pupils stabled their horses as they lived too far away to walk to school. Three events that involved the school were the Christmas Concert, the Prince George Music and Drama Festival, in which the rural schools were expected to participate, and the local Woodpecker Fall Fair where the best of the children’s work was exhibited. For the Drama Festival, we chose the play, “The Shoemaker and the Elves”. From discarded long johns, flour sacks and a couple of packets of Ritz dye, the mother of four of the pupils turned out very commendable costumes for the whole cast. The day of the presentation arrived. When the children were on stage with the curtain about to go up, the youngest grade 1 elf decided she wanted to go home that very minute and dissolved in tears at my feet. With a sharp retort from me that she wasn’t going to spoil the play for the rest of the children, she scurried into position as the curtain went up. With several loud sniffles, she delivered her lines perfectly as did the rest of the class. Woodpecker Class 1945 Courtesy of Margaret (Collinson) Moffat, former teacher In class on Monday morning, I told them how proud I was of them. I unwrapped a large parcel containing the silver cup that they had won for the best play. They were very surprised and delighted! I wouldn’t have missed that year in a one-room school for anything. Margaret (Collinson) Moffat 2008, former teacher Woodpecker Elementary We came from Alberta to Woodpecker, arriving on November 2, 1937. In winter, the side roads were not ploughed and the highway, which was called the Cariboo Trail, was not ploughed often as there were only about four neighbours that had cars and there was very little traffic on the highway. We walked to school. Some kids rode horses, as there was a small barn at the school. Sometimes when we had a big snowfall, we would use snowshoes. Often, there would be wolf tracks over our tracks when we came home at night. We walked the two miles to school with a peanut butter sandwich, some cookies and, if we were lucky, an apple in a Rogers syrup pail for a lunch bucket. Rogers made a onepound syrup can and we also would have one of these with hot chocolate. The lunch and the chocolate would often be frozen by the time we got it to school. By noon it would be thawed out; it’s pretty hard to hurt a homemade bread and peanut butter sandwich. The school was a one-room log building with two outdoor toilets, girls and boys. A young girl, Edith Bell, whose family lived quite close, would come to the school each morning with a pail of drinking water. She would start a fire in a wood burning barrel heater so the school would be a bit warm when we arrived. Woodpecker Class late 1930’s G eorge Tapping, photographer Courtesy of A llan Thorp, former student The teacher would stay with one of the families because there was no teacherage. Several times they stayed with us. The teachers were often young girls of about 19, right out of Normal School, which was grade 12 with one year of teacher training. They had to teach students from grade one to eight. It was a requirement to have seven students to get a teacher. One year my brother Harold had to repeat grade 8 in order to make up the seven. The pictures I have of Woodpecker School were taken by George Tapping, a bricklayer who had come from Prince George to repair the chimney at the school. He brought his camera; very few people in the area had cameras. Allan Thorp 2013, former student Wright Creek Elementary 1962-1964 Location Wright Creek Road is 23 km north of the Spruceland Shopping Centre in Prince George, off the Hart Highway. Wright Creek Pit Road is 8.4 km along Wright Creek Road where there is a sweeping curve to the left. At about 9 km is Pollard Road on the right. On the left, a few metres further along, is an empty lot where the school and teacherage were located. History In August 1962, the Board of SD 57 announced, “two one acre sites for portable schools are to be purchased…at Foreman Flats and Wright Creek.” In reality, Wright Creek was sited on two acres. These two acres, belonging to Fred Kazakoff ’s beef ranch, were deeded to the school district. By September 1962, a teacherage, complete with a propane tank, was set up. The key to the teacherage, in 2016, still bears an inscription “Bonnet Hill”. It is probable that this teacherage once was at the Bonnet Hill School. The school was most likely named for the area and for the creek that you cross twice while travelling to the school site. Former teacherage at Wright Creek 2016 Courtesy of Richard Arnett Wright Creek Elementary STAFF There were three male teachers: Mr. Freeman, Mr. Charles Joy and Mr. Hollywood. There were no statistics filed on the 1964-65 year so Mr. Hollywood’s tenure is anecdotal. Mr. Freeman 1962 Courtesy of Bruce Gendron Mr. Charles Joy 1963 Courtesy of Bruce Gendron ENROLLMENT YEAR 1962 1963 GRADE 1-6 1-7 # 12 8 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) The students who attended Wright Creek School included the Bremacomb, Gendron (Bruce, Diane, Anthony), Kazakoff and Mindel families. Wright Creek Elementary Did You Know? T he Mindel family had twelve children; six of them attended Wright Creek School. When the family moved from the area there were no longer enough students to keep the school open. T here is a question about when, exactly, the school closed. It could have been anywhere from June 1964 to June 1965. The students remember three full years. Bruce Gendron says during his last year (grade 6) his nephew, Tony Gendron, was in grade 1. After Bruce started riding to town for grade 7 at Wildwood Elementary School, Tony had Mr. Hollywood for grade 2 at Wright Creek. There were three teachers over the time the school was open which seems to support the students’ memories. If, indeed, it did remain open past June 1964, it was not recorded at the Department of Education in Victoria. Five Mindel children on school steps 1963 Courtesy of Bruce Gendron W hatever the closing date, the school district received an order from the Executive Council Chamber, Victoria, on August 5, 1969, to dispose of the Wright Creek School site. Lot 1, District Lot 3801, Plan 12991, Cariboo District was returned to the Kazakoff family. Y ears later (the 1980’s) parents in the area continued their efforts to access proper transport to area schools. They felt the long waits and the condition of the roads were detrimental to their children’s needs. The school district had organized bussing to Wildwood Elementary but many parents preferred the shorter run to Salmon Valley Elementary. Wright Creek Elementary Memories I was quite comfortable at the school before I was even a grade 1 student. As a pre-schooler, I would cut through the bush from my home to the schoolyard and play with the school children during recess and lunch breaks. I remember an incident in grade 1 when half the students were in the ditch on one side of the driveway and the other half were in the opposite ditch. They were having a friendly rock fight. During a pause in the action, I poked my head up to see what was happening. Just then, Bruce Gendron, my grade 6 uncle, let fly with a fair-sized stone…Oops! I got stitches. Bruce got the strap. Rock throwing was forbidden. Bruce and I remain “buds”. Tony (Anthony) Gendron 2015, former student I used to help my mother, Florida Gendron, clean the school. I remember the old desks held together with rails. There was no running water and the bathroom facilities were outdoors. I don’t remember if there was a wood stove but my brother, Bruce, was pretty sure the propane tank was just for the teacherage because the school was always cold. Diane (Gendron) Collins 2016, former student Christmas Concert 1963 Diane Gendron (far left) and Bruce Gendron (3rd from left) Courtesy of Bruce Gendron I remember packing snow under a big, old spruce tree near the school. We would then climb the tree, have a good bouncing sway on a chosen branch and jump to the snow pile. As soon as our teacher found “the fun activity out back” it, too, was forbidden. Bruce Gendron 2016, former student Elementary Schools Beaverly Blackburn Buckhorn College Heights, École Edgewood Foothills Giscome Glenview Hart Highlands Harwin Heather Park Heritage Highglen - Montessori Hixon - Canyon Creek Lac des Bois, École Malaspina McBride Morfee Nukko Lake Nusdeh Yoh Peden Hill Pineview Pinewood Polaris Montessori Quinson Ron Brent / Connaught Southridge Springwood Spruceland Valemount Van Bien Vanway Westwood Beaverly Elementary 9777 Western Crescent, Prince George 1919 to Present Mission Statement The staff, parents and students are committed to developing a secure environment in which respect, responsibility and teamwork will form the foundations for life long learning. Beaverly Elementary 1980 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History The original Beaverly School was a one-room log structure built by a group of settlers on Muralt Road in East Beaverly. Miss Olive Clarke came from New Brunswick to Fort George in 1917 and became the first teacher at Beaverly from January to June in 1919. The pioneer names in the area were Fredericks, Wagner, Haldi, Henderson, Muralt, Kienzle, Pain, Kirsch, Brooks and Hiller. The log school was open from 1919-1925 and then again from 1930-1947. It closed with only six students in grades 2-6. From 1948-1966, students in the area were home schooled or attended a Prince George city school. In 1966, the Prince George School District built a five classroom school with an enrollment of over 100 students and five staff members. Beaverly Elementary School was built on Western Crescent which was located on the opposite side of Highway 16 West from the original school. The first principal was Geoff Eacott. Additions were made in 1971 and 1973 so there are now ten classrooms, a resource room, a library, a gymnasium and a computer lab in the school. Most of the students attending the present school are bussed from outlying rural areas. Beaverly Elementary Beaverly School 1919 Courtesy of Myrtle Jarvis, former student Early Staff Miss Olive May Clarke Miss Elizabeth J. Gibson Miss Bocock Miss L. F. Cowdell Miss E. M. N. Lettice Miss J. M. Gladys Jagger Miss J. McQueen Miss Julia Izowsky Miss Giaconda Andruss Mrs. Olive M. (Clarke) Henderson Miss Daisy J. Brealey Miss Myrtle A. Procter Miss Jean Kinnaird Mrs. A. C. Buchanan Mrs. M. Gauthier Beaverly Class 1940 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Beaverly First Class 1919 Olive Clarke, teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Beaverly Elementary enrollment y ear gr ade # 1966 1-7 142 1970 1-7 306 1975 1-7 356 1980 K-7 330 1985 K-7 314 1990 K-7 300 1995 K-7 309 2000 K-7 257 2005 K-7 226 2010 K-7 231 2012 K-7 197 Source: Public Schools Annual R eport (s) School Opening Staff May 1967 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Principals Geoff Eacott Monty Woodley Annette Isbester Jim Briggs Terry Henry R on Smith Paul R aines Clint Buhr Maurice Vignal Art Brown Ian Landy Jill Jackson Vice Principals Mary Engstrom Bruce Ballantyne Gerry Sheanh Bruce Walkey Bob Strain 20th Anniversary 1987 Jim Briggs, Annette Isbester, Geoff Eacott SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Beaverly Elementary Did You Know? B eaverly became quite well known for its community pancake breakfasts at Open Houses and other occasions. Sandy Milne, a teaching assistant, often organized these and other annual events such as Christmas Craft Fairs and Air Band Talent Nights. Her husband, David Milne, was a Citizen photographer and thus Beaverly School and community programs frequently appeared in The Citizen newspaper! Cougar Eric Brewer Flips a Pancake at Beaverly School January 22, 1998 Courtesy of David Milne, photographer I n May 2004, a new member of the Beaverly elementary PAC, Leona Wilkins, was presented with the first BCCPAC Bev Hosker Motivational Award for taking on the task of creating a Parent Education Centre for her school. The centre is a place in the school where parents can consult educational materials, information on bullying and other district and B. C. Confederation of Parent Advisory Council publications. The award was established in memory of Bev Hosker, former Prince George DPAC chair, director of BCCPAC and parent representative on the B. C. College of Teachers. She championed many issues, including the secondary school math program which she believed should be overhauled so that all students could succeed in math. T he school had a large 20 year reunion and birthday party in 1987. Many former staff and students attended the celebration. Happy Birthday Beaverly 1987 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Beaverly Elementary Beaverly Air Band 1994-1995 Beaverly Yearbook Activities Beaverly Air Band 2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Beaverly “Air Band” talent nights have been an important part of the school’s culture for over 25 years. An elaborate stage is built every year and many hours of practice occur before each show. A comment from an entrant, Julia Hewer, in the 1995 yearbook appears below: Parents are very active partners in the educational and recreational programs offered at Beaverly. The Beaverly West Leisure Society sponsors user groups such as Ladies Keep Fit, kids floor hockey, kids soccer, gymnastics classes, baseball, T-ball, a play school and after school care. The Beaverly Community Association provides funding support for a yearly swim program and helps with the purchase of playground equipment. Beaverly School Parent Advisory Council is a strong advocate for the students and the community. They participate in many school-wide activities and sponsor events such as family dances and movie nights. This is a truly community-based school that thrives on its ruralsuburban location and way of living. 4H is a vital part of students’ lives, as are feeding horses, shearing sheep, raising rabbits and pigs and the many chores associated with country living. Adapted from Beaverly School Website 2013 Beaverly Elementary Memories I was the first principal of the new Beaverly School and, as it was also my first principalship, it was an exciting time. Many things stand out in my memory from those first five years, particularly the support of the families and the entire community. We started September 1967 housed in Vanway Elementary School with the principal at that time, Bill Voth. Spring arrived shortly after we moved into our new building so the maintenance department had to build a wooden walkway into the school. The famous Western Acres clay ate up many students’ boots as they tried to take a short cut across the school grounds! The developer of the subdivision, Bob Nelson, had envisioned the school as being the centre of his subdivision. But this never came to fruition and the school still remains in wooded surroundings. The developer had an airstrip built so he could fly in and out on his private plane. However, as his flight path was right over the first four rooms of the school, the D.O.T. soon closed it down. One winter’s day, before it was closed down, a man came into the office and asked to use the phone. He explained that he had been flying into Prince George and the airport was fogged in and he had nowhere to land other than this emergency field. At least he was ski-equipped. His radio wasn’t working and he had to phone the D.O.T., before they sent out a search team, because he had disappeared off the radar. Water was always a problem for the school and subdivision and, at times, Western Acres had their water turned off during the day so the school would have water. In the evening, the school’s water was turned off. This was ironic as there was an underground stream that surfaced in the crawlspace of school right under my office. All you had to do was look down through the floor hatch and it was almost always wet. Those years were interesting. Bears around the school or beavers in the ditches – there was always something that added to my experiences as a new school principal. Geoff Eacott 2005, former principal Aerial View of Beaverly School 1967 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Beaverly Elementary As principal of Beaverly in 1991, I was literally met at the door by a small group of parents who informed me that they were going to be an active and supportive group. They were just that. The PAC’s first major project was to purchase a stage for the school for Christmas Concerts and the incredibly successful “Air Bands”. Their unexpected success resulted in a new stage for the spring Air Band. Capitalizing on this momentum, the PAC proposed a two-year fundraising campaign for a new adventure playground. Mary Doig chaired this committee. Members of the committee accompanied a cross-section of students who visited and evaluated adventure playgrounds at other schools. The committee put together the kids’ “wish list” of component parts. With the financial assistance of the Beaverly Leisure Society, the PAC surpassed their own expectations and, in just one year, put in the third largest adventure playground that Blue Imp had ever built. What energy! What I remember most was the energy of teaching assistant Sandy Milne who organized the Air Bands and Pancake Breakfasts and took care of details for many events such as the hamburger sales at Open Houses. These events brought the rural community together for fun in a social setting. Who else could have got me on stage dressed as a butterfly? One important contribution that I initiated was the installation of a child care facility right at the school site. Beaverly had no daycare in the immediate area and the pre-school program operating out of the school basement, two days each week and after school, was in dire need of a permanent home. This type of facility, with a trained professional in charge, provided neighbourhood children with the early literacy skills necessary for kindergarten. Paul Raines 2005, former principal Beaverly Air Band 1994-1995 Beaverly Yearbook Beaverly Elementary Activities Through the Years at Cross Country Running Teams Beaverly Online Newsletter October 18, 2012 Beaverly School Picnic at West Lake 1935 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Beaverly Elementary School Awash in Pink for Ness Lake Ness Lake Bible Camp Director Will Born didn’t have any idea why he was told to bring a wheelbarrow to Beaverly elementary school Wednesday. But he figured it out soon enough, when the Grade 7 class presented him with more than $2200 they had collected throughout the month, with all the money going to help build a new gymnasium at the bible camp to replace the one that burned down on Dec. 31. “The generosity of Prince George brings tears to my eyes. I’ve worked in other communities and never seen a town rally around a cause the same as Prince George,” said Born. Suzie Barrio’s Grade 7 class came up with the fundraising idea and thought the fundamentals behind the bible camp would coincide perfectly with anti-bullying day. “The boys really took the reins as far as the fundraising goes,” said Barrio, “and the girls helped out too, but it was mostly the boys.” The money was raised through penny drives, cupcake sales and the generosity of the Beaverly community. “We had people dropping off money every day,” said Barrio. To sweeten the pot, the class came up with fundraising goals. If they raised more than $1000 the boys would get temporary pink highlights in their hair; if they passed the $1500 mark, all the boys would wear tutus for the day and if they passed $2000, the principal, Ian Landy and Grade 5 teacher Tom Smith would get decked out in pink from headto-toe for the day. “They weren’t kidding when they said I needed a wheelbarrow. We are hoping to have an operational gym by July,” said Born. March 1, 2012 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Student Service Superstar Service Award 2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection SPCA Barn Dance 2005 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Beaverly Elementary Yearbook Memories Rock Climbing 1997 Beaverly Yearbook 1996-1997 Sports Day 2006 Beaverly Yearbook 2005-2006 Boys’ Volleyball Allstars 1994 Beaverly Yearbook 1994-1995 Remembrance Day 1994 Beaverly Yearbook 1994-1995 Readers’ Theatre 1998 Beaverly Yearbook 1997-1998 Memories Beaverly Elementary Reflections of a School Teaching at Beaverly was inspiring and pleasant. It was interesting having a school so close to home with a flavor of rural and urban. The children came from a variety of homes. There were kids who travelled from rural farms; even a few without electricity, and those who lived close to the school and, like city kids, could go home for lunch. Most, however, decided to stay so they could take part in activities at the school. One such activity was the yearly extravaganza called “Air Band”. Kids and teachers alike could live out their rock and roll dreams and became a rock star. For me, new to the school, I did not think I would be involved. Wrong! The choreographer, Sandy Milne, saw potential and I, with little or no talent, practiced and went on stage with a group of male teachers. We were involved because everyone knew better than to say no to Sandy. There were many years where we, with a lot of practice, performed and sang many popular songs. By all accounts we were a hit. The audience enjoyed the antics of many teachers, children and parents, some of whom thought they were beyond the years of performing on stage. What a fun activity! Sports days were fun too. Neighbours from all over came to the school to see their children run, jump and have fun in unique activities. The theme of all days was fun. Parents, teachers and kids all ended the day with smiles because this theme was met. The students were well behaved. One time, being new, I introduced an activity and wondered what was going wrong! Children were doing what was asked and not complaining. All in all, Beaverly is a gem in the school district, where every person feels welcome regardless of where they are from. Gordon Nash 2013, retired teacher Div. 5 Beaverly Class 1995 Gordon Nash, teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Beaverly Elementary SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Blackburn Elementary 2222 South Blackburn Road, Prince George 1960 to Present “Education Is Our Future” Mission Statement The Blackburn Elementary School Team believes that teachers, students, parents and community members work together to guide each student towards his/her full potential as a student and a person. Within the school environment each child should experience success, and a feeling of self-worth. Blackburn Elementary 2016 Courtesy of Val Kilbey, retired teacher History Blackburn School was named after the Blackburns, a family that has lived in the area for many years. Early schools in the district included a Pineview School, which was on the Blackburn farm, the Ferndale School and the Thompson School. The Thompson School was converted into a house and still exists across the road from Blackburn Elementary School. Blackburn Elementary The log farmhouse and fenced garden of the Blackburn farm 1920s The Exploration Place P984.1.10 In the late 1950s, the school board bought five acres of land 2 km from Bonnet Hill School. The original stucco-covered four-room school opened in October 1960 and was given the name “Blackburn Road Elementary” as it faced Blackburn Road. Its students had previously attended Bonnet Hill Elementary, mostly in portables. When the new school opened it was already too small and the grade 1/2 class had to remain behind at Bonnet Hill. The school board approved a new wing and this was built of concrete blocks and faced Giscome Road. There was no gym but classroom space could be utilized for physical education. Many students came by bus and, since they shared transportation with high school students who studied at town schools, they were dropped off early and picked up late. Teachers took turns in providing activities outside school hours for these bus students. In January 1964, fire destroyed the school. At the time of the fire, 303 students were attending. It was alleged that the fire was a result of arson, set by two juveniles living in the area. January 27, 1964 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Blackburn Elementary Review of Fire Protection editorial The weekend fire which destroyed the $170,000 Blackburn School should bring a general review of fire protection facilities at all schools in the district whether they are near or far from organized fire departments. The tragic truth of the Blackburn fire appears to be that the school might have been saved, if a hydrant had been outside instead of inside the building with hose available for the first persons on the scene to use. Amateurs at a fire are no match for professionals but, in such instances as Blackburn, they could very possibly hold flames in check until the regular firemen arrived. The excuse for having the hydrant inside the building was that nearby residents might steal water for their own use from a hydrant outside the school. Maybe they would have tried but there must be some means of preventing this. In any case it takes a great deal of stolen water to be worth $170,000. Better late than never, the board has called for a study of fire control facilities at all rural schools. At the same time architect Alan Greenwell has pointed out firewalls in a new school are “essential”. There were none in the Blackburn Road school and Saturday’s fire certainly underlines Mr. Greenwell’s observation. Altogether the weekend’s lesson is one that should be memorized by all public officials throughout the Central Interior and by the school board in particular. No doubt it will be. January 27, 1964 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Miss J.E. Copeland’s grade 3/4 class 1961-62 SD 57 Education Heritage Committee At the time of the fire, students were scheduled to write exams in preparation for their February report card. The principal, Bill Smeaton, was quoted as saying, “A few teachers had the exams at home but in most cases, they are up in smoke”. The students were temporarily dispersed to Kelly Road and Hart Highway schools and into a building at the airport. This resulted in a very long bus ride both in the morning and the evening for these students. Blackburn Elementary In May 1964, the school board approved the construction of a new nine-room school as stage one of a three-stage plan that included the building of a junior secondary school and auxiliary room. Allan Greenwell, the architect at the time, wanted the board to wait and tender all three projects after a referendum went to voters. The board declined and stated that “students be in portables and will have to use outdoor toilets until the second stage is built”. Jeanne Andersen, a teacher in 1964, remembers the outdoor “biffies” and recalled that the new school was ready before the year was out. In late 1964, the grade 1/2 students from Bonnet Hill were finally moved into Blackburn. In 1965, the school was named “Blackburn Elementary Junior Secondary School” and included Airport Hill students. In December 1967 a new sixteen-room elementary school opened across the road from the combined elementary-junior school. This new school was sited approximately where the original school had been located. In 1969, Foreman Flats joined the elementary school population and, after a New Year’s Eve fire, Fraserview Elementary students began attending in 1979. EARLY STAFF Mary Schmelzel Joan Dmitrasinovic Jessie Tucker Elizabeth Copeland Charlotte Lapp Norma Fraser Mr. E. Wilson Patrick Duff Miss P. Clark Mary Perrault Miss L. Robertson Frank Marshall Tom Pflanz Staff 1970-1971 Courtesy of Reva Bierman ENROLLMENT YEAR 1960 1963 1965 1967 1972 1985 1995 2005 2016 2016 GRADE 3-6 1-4 1-10 1-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) # 65 141 763 473 462 274 438 304 211 241 Blackburn Elementary 1996 was one of Blackburn’s highest enrollment years, as evidenced by this photo. Staff and students 1996-1997 Courtesy of Blackburn Elementary PRINCIPALS William (Bill) Smeaton William (Bill) O’Brien Tara Sangha John Stevens Norm Arnold Jack Blair Art Webb Harry Hufty Ray Giffin Tony Sweet Bruce Walkey Rob Larson Lori Dennill Nancy Armstrong VICE PRINCIPALS Tony Cable Rick DeBelser John McLay Mary Ann Lyall Lynda Stoppler (zone v.p.) Sue Sedgwick (zone v.p.) Kathie Hilder (zone v.p.) Blackburn Elementary ACTIVITIES Blackburn students routinely participated in “Jump Rope for Heart” that was a fundraiser for the Heart & Stroke Foundation. The fundraising accomplishment in 2012 warranted a feature in the Prince George Free Press on June 8, 2012. Teacher Rhonda George organized this fundraiser for sixteen years. Jump Rope 2012 Courtesy of Blackburn Elementary Yearbook Choir has been a popular extra-curricular activity. Sponsors have included Linda Wenzel and Fiona Coy assisted by John Boyd, Sherry Gilbert and Esther Nelson. The junior and senior choirs have participated in Singfest, SD 57’s annual choral music showcase. Blackburn choir with director Linda Wenzel and accompanist John Boyd 1986-1987 SD 57 Education Heritage Committee Blackburn Elementary Science Fair has been a popular student activity at Blackburn since the early 1970s. A Grade 4 student has given us scientific proof of something we like to hear around our office. Tijana Popovic, 10, did a Citizen readership survey which placed second in the Blackburn elementary school science fair this year. “It tells you a lot of people read the paper,” said Tijana, summing up her survey results. And a lot of those people read Plus! magazine. Tijana had 23 men and 23 women living in the Ferndale/Tabor area fill out a written questionnaire asking what sections of The Citizen they had read over the period of one week. She tallied the responses to find that 14 men and 15 women had read Plus! The weekend magazine beat out the TV Times, which had seven male readers and 12 female readers. There were only two men and three women who did not read the newspaper at all. Tijana made some other interesting discoveries, including the fact both male and female readers turn to the local, national and international pages of the newspaper most often. The men read those pages slightly more often than the women surveyed. They also read the sports and classified pages more often. The women read the entertainment and the home and family pages more often. And is Tijana, who is the daughter of one of the newspaper’s advertising representatives, a Citizen reader herself? “Not really,” she says. I guess that means we are going to have to try even harder. — Diane Bailey March 24, 1990 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Plus! Grade 7 students were paired with grade 1 students and once a week visited their buddies to share in activities such as colouring and reading. Buddy Program March 16, 2000 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Blackburn Elementary SPORTS Blackburn boys and girls have competed in district-wide events in volleyball, basketball, school relays and track and field. The team name is the Blackburn Black Wolves. Floor Hockey 2010-2011 Courtesy of Blackburn Elementary Yearbook Track and Field 2004 Courtesy of Blackburn Elementary Yearbook Elementary Relays at Masich Place 2006 Courtesy of Blackburn Elementary Yearbook Boys’ Basketball 2009-2010 Courtesy of Blackburn Elementary Yearbook Girls’ Volleyball 2009-2010 Courtesy of Blackburn Elementary Yearbook Blackburn Elementary TRAFFIC CONCERNS Safety in and around the school has been a focus for the community especially after a ten-year old boy became the first traffic fatality of the year, in February 1972, when he was struck and killed by a truck as he crossed the road to the school. The February 4, 1972 Prince George Citizen had as its headline, “Safety ‘indifference’ blamed”. Parents were also quoted in the article as they complained about the risk to children as they walked to and from school. In response, the school board announced in April 1972 that work had begun to close the access on Highway 16 [now Giscome Road] and provide a gate on Blackburn Road. The Department of Highways agreed to erect “No Stopping” signs on this highway adjacent to the school. Trudi Buchi, a parent and teaching-assistant commented on safety concerns when there wasn’t a crosswalk, a four-way stop or lighting… “I remember being pregnant with Norman, his due date would be shortly after school started, and Steven, my first born, was starting Kindergarten. I went to see Jack Blair, the principal, and asked if a sidewalk could be put in for the safety of the walking children. Shortly afterwards there was a sidewalk installed and later a four-way stop. Also, principal Art Webb worked on getting better lighting and a parking area for the school.” Did You Know? I t wasn’t unusual for the RCMP to set up roadblocks along Giscome Raod, adjacent to the school, to catch speeders in the school zone. One winter morning when she wasn’t paying attention, and with many schoolchildren watching through the fence, Val Kilbey was ticketed for speeding. M ary Schmelzel taught at Blackburn for many years, from virtually the beginning to 1988. She previously had taught grades 1-3 at Bonnet Hill Elementary in 1959. B lackburn Elementary, along with Highland, Spruceland, Beaverly, Austin Road, Carney Hill and Mackenzie Elementary schools, were designed by Alan Greenwell and built to feature interior wood construction. According to Tom Williams, a current Blackburn custodian, this durable wooden interior may account for its longevity. B lackburn hit the news at the end of the third day of strike action in January 1989. A photo in the Prince George Citizen had the caption “Blackburn teachers rigged a shelter to protect themselves from the wind of Wednesday”. Mary Schmelzel 1983 Courtesy of Blackburn Elementary B lackburn Elementary was the first elementary school in SD 57 to have its library automated. The project was coordinated by the District Resource Centre and necessitated a comprehensive weeding of the collection, barcoding for all the items in the collection and an automated system for searching the collection and managing circulation. It was completed in the mid-1990s. Val Kilbey recalls “I was demonstrating the system to Larry Finden, an administrator in the district, and was signing out a book to a kindergarten boy. He was proud that he knew his patron number and when I “beeped” the book to sign it out, his eyes opened wide and he said, ‘Wow – that’s cool!’” Blackburn Elementary library 2017 Courtesy of Val Kilbey, retired teacher Blackburn Elementary Memories I taught at Blackburn from 1961 to 1963 in the original building and also the new wing. The school yard was just rocks and gravel so it was decided that students and staff could come on a Saturday to clear the grounds. To our gratitude we were joined by a considerable number of parents who came prepared and succeeded in doing the job properly. Because the roads in the area were not paved, mud could be a real problem. The school bus couldn’t navigate the hill on Johnson Road by the Christiansen farm so principal Bill Smeaton asked if I would take my car to transport a couple of students. So I did, but after dropping them off I got stuck and unfortunately did not have a shovel to dig some gravel for traction. Not to worry, a local man came along in his four-wheel drive and saw my plight. This stranger suggested we go to his home for supper and then he would take me back to my car and we would get the car moving. Another time, Mr. Smeaton asked if I could (once again) take my car to take a girl home. Her father usually drove her, as the bus didn’t go to the Foreman Flats area, but he couldn’t proceed as there was a problem with ice. Learning through my previous experience, I took a couple of grade 7 boys and some shovels and off we went. The father was waiting and walked to meet his daughter. My car was in a precarious position near the CN railway tracks, so the boys picked it up (the engine was in the back) and turned it around and we used the shovels to get some grit and were able to return to the school. Students who lived less than 3 miles from the school were not delivered by the school bus. One winter’s day it was -47 degrees F. and little Barbara arrived at the school having walked 2 1/2 miles in the cold. Kids who lived almost across the road hadn’t made the effort. Ironically, the school bus, when it arrived, was half empty. Tom Pflanz 2017, former teacher My favorite Blackburn memory comes from my first winter there (1973-1974) when we broke the annual snowfall record. We arrived at school one morning after a particularly heavy overnight snowfall to find the long driveway completely blocked with 5-foot drifts. The maintenance department sent a guy out with a tiny snow blower to clear the road. He gave up after half an hour and we had to trek through the drifts in single file like a polar expedition to get into the school. Fortunately, none of us were lost in the drifts! I moved into town after three years at Blackburn but, because it was my first school, it was always special to me. I’ve never forgotten how much the kids appreciated it when you did something special for them and I enjoyed meeting former students in town and watching them become successful citizens of Prince George. To any of you who are reading this, Best Wishes from your “old” teacher! Bill McLeod 2016, retired teacher Blackburn Elementary I remember taking a group of students on an overnight field trip to the Bennett Dam along with parent volunteers. I assisted with getting all the students bedded down but then fell asleep myself and snored so loudly that none of the parents could sleep. Jack Blair 2017, retired principal I was at Blackburn as a student from grades 1-7. There were lots of activities to participate in. We had house teams and I was a Tamarack. I don’t know why but the four house teams were named after trees. There were lunchtime activities in the gym such as relays, games and events for the house teams to participate in. As an intermediate student I remember joining the Cheerleading Club. The practices were held downstairs in the basement. The music teacher was our cheerleader coach and she also ran our school choir. The choir would perform at every school assembly. I have fond memories of being a part of that. I also remember as a grade 7 student being privileged to ‘man’ the office during lunch break so the secretary could go have her lunch. We would offer Band-Aids to those who needed them, answer phones, and do copying for the secretary. Copying back then was done on a ‘photo stat’ machine; once the original paper was set in place we would wind this big arm on the machine to produce copies. (I’m not sure exactly what the machine was called.) Fast forward many years and there I was on a cool morning standing in a long line in order to register my son for kindergarten. Back then, the first parents to register were able to have their children in the much desired ‘morning’ kindergarten class. My family still lived in town but we were building a house in the Blackburn school catchment area. I drove out early to ensure morning placement for my son; I arrived at the school at 7:30 a.m. and was #24 in the line-up. So much for him attending a small ‘countrystyle’ school. Imagine my surprise and delight when I recognized many of the parents in the registration line-up as fellow students from when I attended Blackburn. My son’s kindergarten year turned into one of the busiest years for that school. There were three full time kindergarten classes. The following year was almost the same when I registered my daughter for kindergarten. Attendance was well over 400 students that year. My children enjoyed Blackburn and made many friends while attending. As a parent I have fond memories of Movie nights, Sports Days, Christmas concerts, basketball games, volleyball tournaments, watching speech festivals at Vanier Hall, in which my children participated, and also watching the school choir perform at their competitions. My children were fortunate to have wonderful teachers, many of whom have made a lasting impression on them even into their adult years. I do have to touch on one special memory. My grade 5 teacher was Mrs. James. I loved her class and was always very excited to come back into class after lunch break to hear the next chapter of the book “The Secret Garden” which she read aloud to us every day. That was one of my favourite and best years of school. Some 25 years later I was again in her class, this time as an education assistant. This was another one of my favourite and best years of school. We often joked about our relationship; I complained about the report card she gave me when I was her student and she denied reading “The Secret Garden”. We often reminisced about how Blackburn was back then and we often celebrated how it was 25 years later. Wendy Gobbi 2017, education assistant Blackburn Elementary I remember the playground getting built… Fran Neiser and myself were PAC Fundraisers and we got a license for a casino night with the help of Lyn Hall who worked for Gaming, and a city grant for funds with the help of Lois Boone who was the NDP MLA. The Blackburn Community also put money towards it. We each got a Volunteer Recognition Award from Shirley Bond, the Chairperson of the District Parent Advisory Council at the time. This was truly a community effort as many families from the community helped on the day the playground was put in. The playground was replaced in later years because of the dangers of “treated wood” for children. We have had terrific Christmas Concerts, Sports Days, Hot Lunch programs in the past. Many cookbooks were made from students’ favourite recipes. I still have mine. Community events like T-ball, floor hockey and adult exercise programs were going on before my kids started school in 1984 and are still going on! I am now taking my grandson to Strongstart. Generations are staying in the Blackburn area so mothers and fathers who took their children to the school are now coming back and watching their grandchildren take part in events. At the same time, they are getting reacquainted with each other. Trudi Buchi 2017, parent and teaching assistant Buckhorn Elementary 5190 Buckhorn Lake Road, Prince George 1951 to Pr esent MISSION STATEMENT To foster in all students a lifelong desire to learn and to prepare them to be responsible and productive citizens in our changing world. Buc khor n El em entary 1 980 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY Buckhorn School was originally a two-room portable building moved to the present Buckhorn Road location in 1951. A teacherage was also provided. In the 1960’s, a four-room building with a small office was built. In 1971, the teacherage was converted into a library for the school. Additional classrooms were added in 1972 and, in late 1976, a new library and a gymnasium were built. Most children who attend Buckhorn School come from families who prefer the rural, independent lifestyle of small acreages rather than dense city living. Many students are bussed to the school. Buc kh or n Po rt ab l e 196 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Buckhorn Elementary PRINCIPALS Henry Vogt Don Chamberlain John Zibin Terry Henry Al Hiebert Neil Laliberte Rick Manning Lorne Brown Maurice Vignal Homme Van DerMeer Leigh Erwin – shared with Red Rock Lynda Stoppler – shared with Red Rock Kathie Hilder – shared with Giscome Steve Wyer – shared with Giscome Kathy Sawatsky – shared with Hixon Dan Watt – shared with Hixon Bu ckho rn St a ff 197 1 Courtesy of Marguerite MacKenzie, retired teacher Bu ckho rn St a ff 200 4 Courtesy of Maureen Fotos, retired teacher Buckhorn Elementary EN R O L L M E N T YEAR 1951 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 GRADES # 1-4 32 1-6 42 1-6 88 1-7 196 1-7 181 K-7 246 K-7 207 K-7 179 K-7 157 K-7 144 K-7 151 K-7 120 K-7 115 G r ad e 1 Bu ckho rn C la ss 196 7 Courtesy of Pat Sexsmith, retired teacher Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Div. 6 Buck horn Cl as s 19 71 Courtesy of Marguerite MacKenzie, retired teacher Buckhorn Elementary Buckhorn Alumni Memories 2000 Students in the Blackburn Zone interviewed former students of schools in the Blackburn area, including Buckhorn, as a Heritage Project. I attended Buckhorn Elementary School from 1958–1965, in grades 2-7. The teachers at the school during that time were Mrs. Horn, Mrs. Noble and Mrs. Sexsmith. The principal was Mr. Vogt. The students came to school by bus. Students in grades 1,2,3 were in one room and grades 4,5,6 and 7 were in another room. The custodian, Mr. Noble, had a house on the grounds where he and his wife, a teacher, lived. Christmas Concerts were held at Pineview Hall. My most vivid memory at Buckhorn School was getting the strap from Mr. Vogt. My advice to today’s students is to stay in school, keep guns at home and enjoy yourself. Larry Cain, former student I attended Buckhorn Elementary School for my grade seven year in 1978-1979. At that time, the buildings were the same as they are now but there was less playground apparatus. My favorite memories of Buckhorn School are Sports Day and the Awards Day. My advice to students would be to stick to the rules, learn all you can, and listen to your teachers because dummies are not cool. Ron Sanchez, former student I attended Buckhorn School in 1976 when I was in grade 7. We had about 20 to 25 students in our class and students came to school by bus, a few were driven and some walked. We had no gym and we put the desks down and played sports in the class or outside when the weather permitted. There was lots of field space but not much outside equipment to play on or use. There was no real parking lot with dividers and such like there is now for safety, with busses, etc. We had a Sports Day and Christmas Concert. Parents and relatives were welcomed at both. The school had Craft Fairs, too, put on by the Recreation Commission, I suppose. My most vivid memory of Buckhorn is that the Principal was our teacher most of the time so we really got to know him. In a small school, everyone knew everyone. I also remember that we could still have fun without a gym. My advice to students of today is that you are in school for such a short time (even though it may not seem so) compared to your whole life ahead of you. Get what you can from those years and make sure your parents realize how hard you are working. Nanci Robinson, former student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Buckhorn Elementary NEWSLETTERS Newsletters were sent home regularly to make parents aware of such activities as: Science fairs Sports days Thank you teas Awards assemblies Hot dog days Bicycle safety rodeos Basketball and other sports events Indoor relays and noon hour games Easter egg hunts Open houses Book fairs Tips on parenting B u ck h o rn S ch o o l Ne w sl e t te r M ar ch 3 1, 199 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Bu ck h o rn S ch o o l N e w sl e t te r Sept em ber 21 , 2 ooo SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Bu ckho rn Sc hool Lib ra ry 200 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Buckhorn Elementary SCHOOL ACTIVITIES BUCKHORN SCHOOL HAS EASTER PARTY An Easter Party was held last Thursday afternoon by the pupils and teachers of Buckhorn School for the mothers of the district. A variety program was presented, consisting of musical numbers by school members, a folkdance and action song by the primary pupils and a choral reading “The Circus Parade” by grade four. This number was made most amusing by the antics of a realistic elephant and giraffe, accompanied by a clown. The program concluded with a reading of the “Story of Easter” and a chorus by the school. A beautiful Easter basket was presented by the pupils to Dolores Schlitt who is convalescing at her home following a highway accident early in January. All the mothers contributed in some way to the success of the afternoon, although some were prevented from attending because of muddy roads. Those present expressed their appreciation and enjoyment. April 7, 1953 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen BUCKH O R N S C H O O L Y E A R B O O K S 2 0 0 0 - 2 0 0 8 Buckhorn Elementary Buckhorn Grade 7 Year-End Trip The year-end trip started in 1996 to achieve three goals. One was to give the students an objective for their final elementary year. The second and third objectives were to create an atmosphere for academic achievement and for students to be cooperative, helpful and mindful. Each student started off the year with 300 points. Loss of points and gain of points was outlined in a chart at the start of the year. You would lose or gain points for homework and behavior throughout the year. But, you could also gain points for exemplary behaviors. However, once you lost all your points you also lost your chance to go on the trip. Fund raising of $18,000 - $23,000 each year was needed for student and chaperone expenses for food and travel. The trip consisted of a six-day excursion by coach to Alberta. It brought the whole community together from 1996-2004. Day 1 – 6 a.m. Buckhorn to Jasper, the Columbia Ice Fields and a snow bus tour of the glacier. At David Thompson Resort, students enjoyed the swimming pool, mini golf, and paddle boat rides on the lake. Day 2 – 6 a.m. Drumheller and the Tyrell Museum for the “Edutour”. Students were taken on a Badlands hike and looked for fossils. They participated in a variety of workshops and the highlight – they slept in the Museum with the dinosaurs! Day 3 – 6 a.m. Sleeping bags were packed on the bus and more workshops until noon. The next stop – the Edmonton Sandman Hotel and off to explore West Edmonton Mall. Day 4 – 7 a.m. Registered at the Edmonton Space and Science Centre for a variety of educational activities such as the Planetarium and IMAX Theater. Day 5 – 8 a.m. Tour of West Edmonton Mall including tickets for the Water Park and Fantasy Land rides. The day was completed with shopping and a movie. Day 6 – 7 a.m. Off to Jasper and a Tramway ride. Then home to Buckhorn. Thank you Buckhorn Community. Henry Johns 2012, retired teacher On Tour 200 1 Courtesy of Henry Johns, retired teacher Buckhorn Elementary MAIL BOX: LETTERS TO THE EDITOR THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS The Christmas Spirit is alive and well. We didn’t need visions of sugarplums. We didn’t need Scrooge or Marley. We didn’t need Santa or his reindeer to experience the enchantment of the production of Buckhorn Polar Express, the Christmas presentation of the staff and students at Buckhorn elementary school. The true meaning of Christmas, along with the aura of Christmas spirit emanating from the stage as these talented youngsters performed, was overwhelming. Starting with the adorable kindergarten kids to grades 1 through 7, we, the audience, were enthralled. Obviously the teachers had done their rehearsing with the children extensively, bringing forth the very best, musically artistically and spiritually, making the whole performance magical and divinely entertaining. How blessed we were to observe the results of quality leadership and student enthusiasm culminate into the best Christmas present ever. Congratulations, all. Diane Reynolds, Buckhorn Lake December 24, 2008 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Chr istm as m id-2 000’ s Buckhorn School Yearbook Memories I joined the Buckhorn staff in 1965 when it was a four-room school with a separate two-room old building (without plumbing) and a small teacherage. When I retired 30 years later, Buckhorn was a 10-room school with a library and a gym. During those years, I lived in the community and grew to appreciate and respect the wonderful families who made their homes in the Buckhorn area. Pat Sexsmith 2012, retired teacher Carney Hill Elementary 2579 Victoria St., Prince George MOTTO My Future Starts Here 1967 to Pr esent C ar ney Hill Sc hool 200 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection MISSION STATEMENT The students in this school will be given every opportunity to develop to their full potential within a cooperative, healthy environment. ORIGIN OF NAME DOUBLE SHIFT CLASSES TO END Double shift classes in district schools are to end. District will now proceed with the building of three new schools, one of which will be a 12-room school at Carney Hill. Carney Hill was originally named Van Bow Elementary when it was opened on shift in 1966. It was named for the intersecting Vancouver and Bower streets off 17th Avenue. In 1968, the name was changed to Carney Hill Elementary in honour of former School Board member (1917) and mayor (1919), Mr, Hiram Carney. February 14, 1967 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Front Ha l lwa y 200 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Carney Hill Elementary ENROLLMENT Co nstruc tion Beg ins 1966 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection BOUNDARY CHANGES MADE TO CUT CLASS SIZES Extensive student population of more than 650 resulted in class sizes of 35 pupils in primary divisions and 40+ pupils in intermediate Grade 4-7 classrooms. Under the guidance of the school’s first administrator, Mr. Larry Finden, a request for boundary changes decreased the classroom overloads, moving the students to Ron Brent Elementary. In order to accommodate the rapid growth occurring in Prince George at the time, the school underwent a number of building additions. COMMUNITY SCHOOL STATUS In 1993 the school achieved Community School status and was also the recipient of Inner City School funding. Shortly thereafter, the Carney Hill Neighbourhood Centre was established in the school. The organization provides Daycare and Afterschool care as well as recreational and social activities. Ca rn e y H il l N e i g h b o u rh o o d Ce n tr e 2 0 0 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection YEAR 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 GRADES 1-7 1-7 1-7 1-7 1-7 1-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 # 348 352 408 484 534 498 600 649 606 542 496 477 504 509 485 407 459 411 396 405 397 372 344 336 299 307 305 304 287 316 297 288 310 284 267 255 225 218 204 165 166 159 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Carney Hill Elementary C ar ney Hil l Sta ff 19 79-8 0 Owe n Cor cor an, P rinc ipal SD 57 Education Heritage Collection FIRST STAFF 1966 Larry Finden Principal Elsie Thran Mary Hickson Secretary Re adi n g B u d di e s ci r ca 19 80 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ann Murphy Kim Gordon Helen Checkley Carney Hill Elementary REMEMBER W H E N . . . In the early 1970ʼs the staff members of Carney Hill started a band. They practiced every morning and one lunch hour per week for a whole year. The former wife of the conductor of the Prince George Symphony was the leader. Subsequently the conductor was frustrated at how the band sounded. They had to remind her that the staff did have daytime jobs teaching students and were unable to spend the day practicing their chosen instruments. Van Bow/Carney Hill staff taught with the Ron Brent staff. Friendly rivalry existed between the two and the latter staff always felt that school successes were attributed to their cooperation and support! Transience was always a feature of the Carney Hill student population. In the early 70ʼs Larry Finden recalled that it wasnʼt uncommon for teachers to have two registers completely filled by Christmas time. LARRY FINDEN, THE FIRST PRINCIPAL, REMEMBERS It was a time when many people were coming into Prince George – there was a real pioneer spirit about the city and this was reflected in the teaching staff as well. THE TWO JUDY’S RECALL When I went to Carney Hill in September 1969, the learning assistance teacher had the health room for a classroom. When our school was bursting at the seams, we had two portables out in the area of the monkey bars and 5 intermediate classes jammed into a four-room open area. That was tight!! Recollections of Judy Kingsford and Judy Bulpin, fondly known as “the two Judy’s”; both taught together until their retirement in June 2002. 1974 All of the Carney Hill student body watch the final game of Canada vs. Russia series in 1974. Carney Hill Elementary PRINCIPALS 1966 - Present Larry Finden Don Wilkins Owen Corcoran Dave Ross Don Basserman Ray Giffin Clint Buhr David Bond Gerry Sheanh Sherry Thibault Craig Brennan Gr eat Eg g Dr op 198 6 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection VICE-PRINCIPALS 1976 - Present Jim Briggs Dave Ross Bryan Kineshanko Al Hiebert Bruce Ballantyne Dan Domes Lynne Boomhower Carol Brain Donna Preston Bill McIver Steve Wyer Ian Landy C ar ney Hi l l Ve rsi o n of t he 19 88 Wi nt er Ol ym pi c s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Carney Hill Elementary ABORIGINAL SCHOOL CHOICE DEFENDED Carney Hill Elementary is the right location for an aboriginal school for a number of reasons, proponents say. On Tuesday night an aboriginal education steering committee report named Carney Hill Elementary as its preference from a shortlist of four schools. Trustees voted to accept the recommendation. Charlotte Henry, School District 57’s aboriginal education principal, said there was immediate reaction to the news. One parent from another school’s catchment area already called Carney Hill about enrolling a kindergarten student there, and the choice school is far from up and running. Marlene Erickson, co-chair of the steering committee, said September 2010 is the date organizers intend to open, regardless of the policy hurdles before them. “The reason why we’ve been such a strong proponent is because our membership keeps asking about it,” Erickson said. “There is a strong push from our respective communities.” She has no doubt there will be plenty of children enrolled at such a school, but putting it at Carney Hill makes a student population almost a foregone conclusion. Aboriginal children already make up about 80 per cent of the student population at the school. Carney Hill is also home to an aboriginal head-start program, the Carney Hill Neighbourhood Centre, and onsite day care, a partnership with the other outside agencies and it is one of the four inner city schools that uses the Primary Project, a concentrated learning program for the youngest grades. “Carney Hill provided a lot of positive community engagement,” Henry said. “If you look at the raw data portion in our report, the comments were ‘bring it here, we want it, this is the place, we are ready.’“ Being a choice school, it is not exclusively for aboriginal children. Anyone who likes the style and philosophy of teaching - although those details have yet to be decided - could send their child there. It also presents the possibility that someone in the catchment area will not like the style of learning there, and can look to another school. Ron Brent, Harwin and Van Bien are alternatives. This was another positive element behind the choice of Carney Hill. Although there are many choice schools in the district, this will not be the first one based on race or culture. French Immersion programs run in a number of schools in the area, and there is also a French exclusive school that teaches French language and culture as its basis for doing business. Henry and Erickson said a great deal more public consultation is about to happen to help design the way the teaching materials and resources will look. February 26, 2009 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen College Heights Elementary, École 5410 Cowart Road, Prince George “Together We Shine. Ensemble, Nous Brillons” MISSION STATEMENT École College Heights Elementary School will enable all students to achieve their potential as life-long learners, and develop respect for self, others and the environment. 1971 to Pr esent College Heights Logo 2002-2021 College Heights Logo November 2021-present É Ec ol e Col l ege Heights El em enta ry 2 002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY In the late 1960’s, the growth of Prince George led to the development of a new subdivision named College Heights. The children from the first families in this area were bussed to schools where empty classrooms existed at Peden Hill and Van Bien Elementary, moving each year as space allowed. In 1971, construction of a school to serve College Heights was started on the corner of Cowart Road and Simon Fraser Avenue. College Heights Elementary students were bussed to Vanway Elementary for the first year while the school was being built. On opening day, enrollment was nearly 200 students. Part of the year was spent on afternoon shift until sufficient portables were made available to have the two schools run simultaneously. By September 1972, an eight-room school was opened with no gym, a small library, a tiny staffroom and no developed playing field. When school began that fall, an addition was started which would add two classrooms with a gymnasium on a lower level from the rest of the school. The school grew by about 100 students each year as the College Heights area continued to expand along Simon Fraser Avenue, briefly reaching almost 600 students in the 1975-1976 year. By this time, another addition had been completed and there were 18 classrooms, a large library, a full sized gym and change rooms, an enlarged staffroom and offices and a number of seminar rooms. The architect for all three building phases was Alan Greenwell. College Heights Elementary, École On Thanksgiving Day in 1975, the older section of Vanway School burned to the ground. Vanway students and teachers were accommodated on shift with College Heights Elementary, a reverse situation to 1971-1972, with College Heights operating in the morning and Vanway in the afternoon. The school population dropped in 1976-1977 when Gladstone School opened and grew again until the opening of College Heights III, or Malaspina School, in 1978. Each time, College Heights students were placed in a “shift” situation. In 1986, a kindergarten French Immersion class was added and College Heights Elementary became a dual-track school. Half of the school’s population is now French Immersion and these students reside in the south side of the city and rural areas beyond. In grade eight, the English students register at College Heights Secondary while the French students enroll in French Immersion at Duchess Park Secondary. ENROLLMENT YEAR 1971 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 GRADES # 1-7 202 1-7 583 K-7 442 K-7 338 K-7 287 K-7 241 K-7 156 K-7 201 K-7 175 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Div. 1 5 C oll eg e Heig ht s C la ss 199 7 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection FRENCH ENROLLMENT YEAR 1986 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 GRADES # K-7 23 K-7 119 K-7 153 K-7 142 K-7 184 K-7 234 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) D iv. 2 C oll eg e Heig ht s C la ss 201 2 Courtesy of Tamar Branco, student College Heights Elementary, École S TA F F FIRST STAFF Teachers: Diane Mori, Marilyn Burkett, Vicki Sullivan, Phyllis Pidcock, Anne (Brown) Lyle, Jim Hamilton. Principal: John Stevens. Secretary: Glendina Parks. P R I N C I PA L S C oll eg e Heig ht s St a ff 197 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection C o l le g e He i g h t s S ta f f 20 12 Courtesy of Luc St. Denis, principal John Stevens (1971-1978) Merv Dyck (1978-1985) John Norman (1985-1991) Bud Burbee (1991-1997) Don Basserman (1997-2000) Tony Cable (2000-2002) Madeleine Crandell (2002-2003) Luc St. Denis (2010-2013) Joanne Shaw (2013-2016) Anjula Corbin (2016-2019) Craig Brennan (2019-2021) Kelly Johansen (2021- ) V I C E P R IN CIPAL S Sue Diakiw (1975-1976) Al Hiebert (1976-1977) Mary Ann Lyall (1977-1978) Maurice Vignal (1978-1979) Lee Bleecker (1979-?) Tony Cable (1984-1987) Donna Dojack (1987-1989) Linda Stoppler (1988-1989) Barb Osten (1989-?) Val Coopersmith (1994-?) Rob Howardson (2004-2005) Anne Smith (2005-2006) Parrish Child (2006-2008) Joyce Willows (2008-2009) Rick Thompson (2009-2010) Ian Landry (2010-2011) Laurie Bryce (2011-2013) Madeleine Crandell (2018) Eli Haydon (2018-2019) Cliff Waldie (2019-2021) Dave Holmes (2021- ) College Heights Elementary, École ACTIVITIES College Heights staff and students have always supported athletic and cultural programs. Teams, concerts, fun fairs, clubs, choirs, contests, charitable campaigns, field trips and many extra-curricular activities are held throughout each year. Current events are posted in newsletters to parents on the school website. Co ll e g e He i g h ts L o g o 19 90’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Queb ec Field T rip College Heights Yearbook 2010-2011 Hous e Tea m A ct ivit ies 200 3 School Newsletter December 17, 2003 art He r o e f 8 tion Rop 1 9 8 e Collec p e m t g u a J ca erit t i f i cation H Cer u SD 5 7 Ed Quiz M e Team College Heights Yearbook 2010-2011 College Heights Elementary, École FI N E A RT S A C T I V I T I E S Chri stma s Con SD 57 cert Educa Prog tion He ram ritage 19 8 7 Collec tion Chr istm as Conc ert C hoir 1995 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection C arn ava l of the Anim al s 201 1 School Newsletter November 10, 2011 M u si c F e s ti v al C e rt i f i ca t e 19 84 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Spring C oncer t 198 5 School Newsletter May 30, 1985 College Heights Elementary, École S P O RT S T enni s A nyo ne? 200 6 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen June 7, 2006 Gr ade 7 Ba sketb al l 201 2 School Newsletter March 1, 2012 Snow Fla ke C ros s C ount r y R un Ce rt ifica t e 198 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection B o ys & G i r ls V o l le y b al l Te a m s 2 010 College Heights Yearbook 2010-2011 College Heights Elementary, École PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION 1985 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Note: Questions of volunteer supervision and vehicle insurance would probably make this curricular trip impossible today. College Heights Elementary, École Memories Right from day one, the staff and students of the newly formed College Heights Elementary School were “on the move”. Due to construction delays, the school building was far from complete at the beginning of September 1972 and so a long term plan for shifting with Vanway Elementary was put into place. College Heights took the afternoon shift beginning at 12:30. I had 26 grade one students and we all “squeezed” into a teeny-tiny portable. I still remember walking sideways between the narrow desk aisles and trying to recite the Lord’s Prayer while the Vanway students were out on their noon hour break. But my kids were great and we did have fun in our little “school house”. A couple of months later, Vanway’s extension was completed and we moved into a room in the “big school”. What a treat! – walking space – windows – bulletin boards – and, because we were back on regular school hours, the College Heights teachers could share the recess/lunch/after school breaks with the young and upbeat Vanway staff. Sometime in the spring of that year, we were told that the water supply in the Vanway area had run out and that it would be some time before water would be restored. On red light alert, quick arrangements were made for both College Heights and Vanway to shift, this time with Van Bien. Again, my class and I packed up and journeyed to yet another learning site. This move however lasted only one short day! Miraculously, water was quickly restored and we returned to Vanway – dragging our well-planned schedules and daybooks behind us. An exercise in futility perhaps…but laughable. And as we all put everything back into place – laugh we did! Spring concert time arrived. Vanway lacked a stage so our staff elected to treat our parents to a “real” concert performed on a “real” stage. And so we did. Cast and props were transported to the Peden Hill Elementary auditorium. It was there that we performed our “Reality Show” about our travels. In late spring of 1972, the construction of College Heights was finally completed and my grade ones and I made our final journey – “merrily, merrily to College Heights Elementary to stay!” Despite all the delays, shifting, crowding and moving, all of us on staff really enjoyed it and laughed through it all. I know that this was all thanks to John Stevens. His encouraging leadership, happy disposition, good nature and unrelenting humour carried us lightly through what could have been a very, very trying year. Diane Mori 2012, retired teacher College Heights Elementary, École Did you Know? C OLLEGE HEIGHTS STUDENTS ARE CONTINUALLY EXPOSED TO THE URBANIZATION OF WILDLIFE AS MANY HOMES AND THE SCHOOL WERE BUILT ACROSS THE STREET FROM THE NATURAL HUNTING GROUNDS OF ANIMALS LIVING NEAR THE FRASER RIVER. THE PATHWAY FROM THE UPPER COLLEGE HEIGHTS SUBDIVISION DOWN TO THE SCHOOL FOLLOWS A NATURAL RAVINE FORMED BY VARSITY CREEK AND IS A COMMON BYWAY FOR BEARS TRAVELLING UP FROM BEAR MEADOW TO FORAGE FOOD. COYOTES AND FOXES CROSS COWART ROAD FROM THEIR DENS ON THE WESTERN RIVERBANK TO FEAST ON COMMUNITY GARBAGE CANS. AS WELL AS WILDLIFE, THE NORTH SIDE OF THE SCHOOL GROUNDS BORDERS SEVERAL ACRES OF FARMLAND AND HORSES ARE OFTEN SEEN REACHING THROUGH THE FENCE TO COLLECT TIDBITS FROM STUDENTS AT LUNCH TIME. Bea r Hab itat & Stewa rd ship A rea Sig ns 2 012 Courtesy of Barb Hall, retired teacher T RAFFIC PATTERNS AROUND THE SCHOOL ARE A NIGHTMARE AS THE SCHOOL WAS BUILT ON THE CORNER OF COWART ROAD AND SIMON FRASER AVENUE, A SECONDARY TRAFFIC ROUTE OUT OF THE ENTIRE COLLEGE HEIGHTS SUBDIVISION. THE OVERCROWDING PROBLEM IS FURTHER COMPLICATED BY THE FACT THAT MANY FRENCH IMMERSION PARENTS ARE DRIVING STU- DENTS TO THE SCHOOL AS IT IS BEYOND WALKING DISTANCE FOR THE ENTIRE SOUTHWEST SIDE OF THE CITY! A SEPARATE ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL FROM COWART ROAD AND A DESIGNATED EXIT ONTO SIMON FRASER AVENUE HAS ALLEVIATED SOME OF THE CORNER “BOTTLENECK.” Tr affic Ja m 2:32P M June 5, 201 2 Courtesy of Barb Hall, retired teacher College Heights Elementary, École Memories Early French Immersion was first offered in the 1986-1987 year. The organization of the program began in the spring of 1986. I was fortunate to have the help of a brave and committed Scot, Mrs. Margaret Dunlop. She spoke French and was willing to step outside her comfort zone for the sake of the program. She and I survived the information and registration meetings with enthusiastic parents in the spring, although neither of us had taught a French Immersion class. We had only experienced our children being in a similar program. I still remember the first teacher that I hired from Montreal. I interviewed her in the school she was working in as a volunteer. She had just graduated from university. It was an interesting interview. I was an anglophone, Sylvie St. Pierre a francophone, and the head teacher at the school was somewhat bilingual. We survived the meeting and Sylvie, our first teacher, was on her way to Prince George to teach grade one. By the time the fall term started, we had hired an aide for the kindergarten class, Mrs. Marilyn Bell. Marilyn, who had grown up in Montreal, was probably the most bilingual person of us all! It was an exciting year. Not all materials arrived when they were supposed to and we had few resources to fall back on. I remember carpenters building things on the side for the kindergarten class. People worked long hours and the staff was supportive. Resources in French were rare. The school had a declining enrollment and the infusion of young motivated teachers, students and parents added positive things to the school. Over the next four years, the classes continued to grow. Sylvie and I worked out an interview system. Our interviews occurred over the phone. I would cover the basic interview and then Sylvie would talk to them in French. After the interview, Sylvie and I would discuss the person’s fluency in French. We hired people from Montreal, Trois Rivieres, New Brunswick and Edmonton. It is interesting to look at it now and think how horrified people would be at our personnel practices, but they worked. How rewarding, some 25 years later, to see École College Heights Elementary still on the wall of the school. John Norman 2012, retired principal Fre nch I m mer si on C l as s on E ar t h Day 20 10 College Heights Yearbook 2010-2011 Edgewood Elementary 1974 to Pr esent 4440 Craig Drive, Prince George MOTTO Respect Yourself, Others and the Environment Ed gewo od E lem ent ar y 198 0’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY Edgewood was built in 1976, during the school construction boom of the mid 1970’s. It is located at the end of the Edgewood Terrace subdivision off North Nechako Road, in a park-like setting. The school is a modern building with 10 classrooms, a library and full-sized gymnasium. The grounds include two grass playing fields and playground equipment. The school was originally named North Nechako II, in a 1973 referendum. The need for a new building originated from the overcrowding of North Nechako Elementary School. Edgewood staff and students attended North Nechako from 1974-1976, while their school was under construction. PRINCIPALS Don Reimer Rick Manning Ken Todd Ron Smith Donna Dojack Lorraine Burns Craig Brennan Steve Fleck Tim Yule E dg e w o o d El e me n ta ry St a f f 197 7 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Edgewood Elementary EN ROLLME N T YEAR 1976 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2009 GRADES K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 # 206 143 104 82 75 68 198 153 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) DEMOGRAPHICS Edg e w o o d El e m e n t ar y D iv . 2 C la ss 1 9 8 5 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Enrollment figures have fluctuated widely from a high of 231 students in 2002 to a low of 68 students in 2001. The high enrollment resulted from the influx of North Nechako Elementary school students, when that school closed in 2002. Students living in the Edgewood subdivision, North Meadow subdivision, and along North Nechako Road now attend this school. Nukko Lake students were bussed to Edgewood in 1994-1995, when their school was under construction. The students renamed the school Edge of Nukkolakewood School during this time. E dg e of N ukko la kewood K ids Counc il 1994 -19 95 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Edgewood Elementary SPORTS & ACTIVITIES Edgewood students have taken part in sports such as basketball, volleyball, cross country running, and track and field. Choirs, Christmas concerts, field trips, sport days, fun days and other extra-curricular activities have been sponsored by staff and parents over the years. G i rl s Ba sk et ba ll T ea m 1 985 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Chris tm as Con c SD 57 ert P Educati L ib r ar y C l u b 1 9 9 6 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection rogr on Heri am 1 tage C 995 ollectio n Edgewood Elementary Did you Know? E DGEWOOD TOOK PART IN A LEAD SCHOOL PROGRAM IN 1990 – 1992, WHICH INVOLVED THE INTEGRATION OF SLR STUDENTS INTO AN UNGRADED EARLY PRIMARY CLASSROOM. THE FOCUS WAS ON THE SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT ASPECTS OF THE NEW PRIMARY CURRICULUM. THEY ALSO EXAMINED THE ROLE OF THE TEACHER ASSISTANT AND SLR TEACHER IN THE INTEGRATED CLASSROOM. E DGEWOOD ELEMENTARY PILOTED A HOME CONNECTIONS PROGRAM IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CENTRAL INTERIOR DISTANCE EDUCATION IN 2000-2001. THE PROGRAM ENROLLED 25 HOME-SCHOOLED STUDENTS. THE PARENTS INVOLVED STILL EDUCATED THEIR CHILDREN AT HOME BUT WERE SUPPORTED BY ACCESS TO EDGEWOODʼS LIBRARY RESOURCES, TECHNOLOGY CENTRE AND GYMNASIUM. THEY COULD ALSO ACCESS CIDES CORRESPONDENCE RESOURCES AND WERE GIVEN SESSIONS IN ON-LINE COMMUNICATION. THE PILOT STEMMED FROM RESEARCH INTO THE FEASIBILITY OF A DISTRICT VIRTUAL SCHOOL PROGRAM. I N THE 1990ʼS, JEANETTE CROBARʼS DIV. 2 CLASS OF GRADE ONE, TWO AND THREE STU- DENTS MADE A QUILT AS A CLASSROOM PROJECT. THEY RAFFLED IT AND RAISED $1200. AN INTERMEDIATE QUILT PROJECT IN THE SPRING OF 1992 WAS HUNG IN THE SCHOOL ENTRANCE- WAY. IT DEPICTED LIFE IN CANADA FROM 1867 TO 1992. A T ONE TIME, EDGE MEAD- OWS, A PRIVATE PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE PROGRAM, OCCUPIED AN EMPTY PRIMARY CLASSROOM IN THE SCHOOL. THE FAMILY YMCA AFTERSCHOOL CARE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM NOW SERVES EDGEWOOD STUDENTS. E DGEWOOD CONTINUES TO RAISE MONEY TO Edg ewood Div. 2 Cl as s Qu ilt 19 90’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HELP OTHERS WITH CAKEWALKS, WHITE ELEPHANT SALES, CHOCOLATE SALES, BOTTLE DRIVES, HOOPS FOR HEART, TERRY FOX RUNS, AND TALENT SHOWS. THE LEADERSHIP GROUP IN FEBRUARY, 2010, HAD A VERY SUCCESSFUL HEARTS FOR HAITI FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN. THEY RAISED $311.49 FOR HAITI EARTHQUAKE RELIEF. EDGEWOOD ALSO SPONSORS A FOSTER CHILD, ANNA. Edgewood Elementary E DGEWOOD STUDENTS PLANTED 800 PINE, SPRUCE AND FIR SEEDLINGS AS PART OF AN EFFORT TO REPLACE OVER 200 TREES LOGGED ON THE PROPERTY DUE TO PINE BEETLE IN- FESTATION. THE TREEE PROJECT (RESTORE AN EVERGREEN ENVIRONMENT AT EDGEWOOD) RECEIVED DONATIONS AND SUPPORT FROM THE MINISTRY OF FORESTRY, LOCAL NURSERIES, THE SCHOOL DISTRICT MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT, AND PARENTS. THE WHOLE SCHOOL TOOK PART IN TREE PLANTING WITH PEER HELPERS TEACHING YOUNGER STUDENTS HOW TO DIG HOLES AND PLANT SEEDLINGS. THE TREES WILL HELP PROVIDE A WINDBREAK AND BARRIER FROM THE RESIDENTIAL AREA NEAR THE SCHOOL. Ta le n t S h ow Pr o gr am 199 1 SD 57 Educa n Collectio tion Heritage Ed ge w o o d G e t s Gr e e n Courtesy of the Free Press, June 3, 2005 Di sa st er M ana gem ent Edgewood Online Newsletter, February 16, 2010 Foothills Elementary 1974 to Present 4375 Eaglenest Crescent, Prince George “Together We Soar” Mission Statement Foothills Elementary School is a community where people offer strength and support to each other, and where opportunities for growth exist for everyone. Our goal at Foothills is to provide students with a strong foundation for academic and social growth within a safe and positive environment. Foothills Elementary 1980’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Foothills Elementary 1980’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History Foothills Elementary School opened in 1974 with 16 classrooms and a gymnasium. It was the largest school built, at a cost of $925,000, after a referendum was held in November 1973 to raise $13.4 million for new schools and additions to existing schools. The school began the year on shift with Lakewood Elementary and moved into the new school in the spring. The school is named after the subdivision in which it is located. The Foothills area is bordered by 5th Avenue, Tabor Boulevard, 15th Avenue and Foothills Boulevard. Lakewood Elementary amalgamated with Foothills Elementary when it closed in 2003. Foothills Elementary enrollment y ear gr ade # 1974 K-7 331 1979 K-7 475 1984 K-7 386 1989 K-7 414 1994 K-7 340 1999 K-7 270 2002 K-7 226 2003 K-7 367 2008 K-7 299 2011 K-7 286 Source: Public Schools Annual R eport (s) Lil Murray’s Class 1986-1987 Courtesy of the Olineck family Early Staff Darlene Meyers Judy Toews George Amarilli Nancy Fredin Betty Elson El Carr Maureen Parker Liz Shirreff Betty Voth Linda R inaldi Marg Wilson Walter Dueck Barry Muramatsu Loni Ballantyne Ellie Grogan Jo-Anne McCarville Foothills Staff 1975 Courtesy of Darlene Meyers, retired teacher Principals Dave McMurray Rob Griffiths Bud Burbee John Norman Maurice Vignal Jack Morrison Jane Anderlini Frances R och Kathy Sawatsky Vice Principals R ick Manning Phil Jensen Al Hiebert R ob Howardson Jennifer R ankin Kathie Hilder Art Webb (shared) Leigh Erwin (shared) Jane Anderlini Foothills Elementary Did You Know? I n December 1999, Foothills students participated in a Dancing through the Decades millennium concert. Dances included the Charleston from the 1920’s, the hand jive from the 1950’s and disco from the 1970’s. I n 2009, Lowry Olafson came to the school and, along with the students, wrote a song for Foothills Elementary called Rise Above. Rise Above CHOR US R ise above, over the hills and mountains, Don’t let your dreams fall down, You know you can fly like a falcon, R ise above. When you let your heart lead you, And you take a leap of faith, Spread your wings and let them hold you Let your courage show the way. CHOR US You never know until you try it It could be just around the bend Just beyond the next horizon The sun will rise again. CHOR US You know that we believe in you, When you’re reaching for the sky And we’ll be right beside you And together we can fly. CHORUS x 2 Dancing Through the Decades Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen December 9, 1999 Foothills Elementary I n the 1980’s, Darlene Meyers and Ann Nevile began a Bicycle Safety Program supported by ICBC. They created a week of lessons that included an RCMP presentation, films and classroom lessons. With parent assistance, a bicycle course was laid out on the school grounds where students practiced different skills. At the end of the week a Bicycle Rodeo was held. This involved parents inspecting the students’ bikes and helmets followed by a street test in the neighbourhood. Each student received a certificate at the end of the course. W hen Dave McMurray, the first principal, left the school in June 1980, he wrote a poem about his memories from his six years at the school. A short excerpt follows: MEMORIES OF FOOTHILLS By Dave McMurray Some have been here from the start Others not so long But each has helped in some way To help the school grow strong. Darlene with her efforts For Language Arts and all And Ann who has for several years Helped us patrol the hall. And Bob who’s added much Since coming to our staff Who without so much as trying Has often made us laugh. And El who seems to need A room that’s very big For all her learning centers And that extra guinea pig. To me the way that all things grow Be they school or be they nation Is through that very basic thing That’s called co-operation. I n 1992, staff members Laurel Bond and Anne Erwin wrote, and Sandra Russell illustrated, a book called The Carrier of Long Ago. They won the Public Library’s 1993 Jeanne Clarke local history award for this publication about the lifestyle and culture of the Carrier First Nations. Foothills Elementary O ver the years, a number of parents hosted year-end activities at their homes. For example, the Olinecks had a picnic in their backyard the years their three children were in kindergarten. The Mills had a swimming pool and would host a party in June. They always hired a lifeguard to be in attendance. Kindergarten Picnic at Olineck’s 1980’s Mrs. Elson, teacher Courtesy of the Olineck family I n the late 1990’s, student Chris Baran died of cancer. The school started a run in his memory collecting money for charity. Each year, Chris’s mother, Conny, would come to the school and make a speech prior to the run. In 2001, $175 was donated to the Children’s Wish Foundation. Chris Baran Run June 1999 Courtesy of Foothills Elementary Foothills Elementary I n November 1996, Nigel McInnis composed a poem for Remembrance Day and entered it in the Royal Canadian Legion’s contest. It placed first out of 200 entries, in both the Prince George and Central Interior competitions. He received a certificate and $50. A t the 1997 Northern Interior Science Fair, Alexander Hemingway and Jeff Cabuang won the Alzheimer Society award and $100 for their project A Study of Short Term Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen May 17, 2000 Memory. In 2000, at the Central Interior Science Fair, Grade 4 students Kristopher Gaiesky and Steven Harasyn won a gold medal for their project Take the Breath Test. Kristopher had asthma and severe allergies and designed a project to highlight these conditions. Foothills Elementary F or the 1999-2000 yearbook, each class compiled a “We Remember When We…” list that included highlights of their year. The yearbook also included artwork from some of the classes. Div. 9 Memories 1999-2000 Miss Stacey, teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Grade 7 Artwork 1999-2000 Mrs. Bond, teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I n 2002, the school held a Pre-Holiday Extravaganza that included cookie decorating, making individual gingerbread houses, Christmas crafts and outdoor activities including sleigh rides. S tudent Jonathan Crow played his violin at a school assembly in the mid-1980’s. Later, he was a violinist with the Prince George Symphony. In 2012, he was the Toronto Symphony Orchestra’s concertmaster. A very tall Matt Pearce, when he was in Grade 7, made a presentation to vice-principal Rick Manning that began “Mr. Manning, I’ve always looked down to you”. Matt went on to become a Grey Cup champion with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and from 2011-2013 was the President of the Prince George District Teachers’ Association. F oothills Elementary was one of the proposed schools to be closed in August 2003 but the school board defeated the motion on second reading at their April 15, 2003 meeting. Foothills Elementary Sports The original team name was the Foothills Phantoms. It was changed to the Foothills Falcons in the early 1990’s. In 1999-2000, Hans Saefkow was the artist who designed the Foothills Falcons mural with design input from student Kyle Pigeau. The mural committee was Alice-May Peterson and Joanne McKnight and the Foothills Community Association covered the costs. Throughout the years, the school has participated in volleyball, basketball, cross-country running, track and field plus the relays at Massey/Masich Stadium. Mural Design by Hans Saefkow 1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Foothills Falcons Mural 2002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Cross Country Runners 2000 Courtesy of Foothills Elementary Relays at Massey Stadium 1999 Courtesy of Foothills Elementary On November 20, 2002, the school had a Hoops for Heart event where students from Grades 4-7 attended a fun day in the gym learning new basketball skills. They raised $3292 for heart and stroke research. Foothills Elementary Memories I taught at Foothills from 1978-1985. I have a few memorable recollections from my years there. Loud whoops and other joyous noises regularly emanated from Rose Loewen’s music classes. One year there was a bumblebee painted on the side of a portable that featured my head. On a field trip to Bear Lake, a student hid on us and, very unfortunately, was left behind when we returned to Prince George at the end of the day. Bob Steventon 2011, retired teacher In 1979, teachers El Carr, Linda Rinaldi and myself produced the operetta “Little Rabbit Who Wanted Red Wings” with the grade 1-2 classes. Parents assisted with the costumes. The following year we did the operetta “The Jungle Book” which involved the K-3 classes. In later years, we had both a primary and an intermediate production. They became Christmas themed and some were original scripts written by a teacher. Darlene Meyers 2012, retired teacher The Jungle Book Operetta 1980 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Foothills Elementary In 1987, a parent designed a new adventure playground to replace the original. Lila Masse, the president of the Foothills Community Association, went all over town and obtained donations of all kinds. Companies donated the use of machinery, materials from bolts to steel and labour – more than anyone expected. I think the total cost of the playground was under $2000. The School Board sent out a “water witcher”, complete with forked stick, to locate the water lines. He painted a crazy zigzag orange line across the grass. The weekend the poles were put in, the digger hit the water line but it was not anywhere near the orange line. Fortunately, no pipes were broken. On the Mother’s Day weekend, the community showed up and the playground was finished in two days. Sunday there was a potluck dinner and BBQ and a draw for flowers for the mothers in attendance. Joan Vogt 2012, parent Building the Adventure Playground 1987 Courtesy of Joan Vogt, parent When my son was in grade 2 or 3, the teacher took her class to Shane Lake. She had an aquarium in the classroom and the students brought back their finds, including leeches. When the unit was over, the teacher promised to return the leeches to a swamp. Instead, late Friday afternoon she dumped the contents of the aquarium under her portable. She figured that crows would eat the leeches and the students would never know. On Monday morning, an Australian exchange teacher brought in these “strange creatures” that he had found living underneath the portable. This same teacher had two pet mice in her classroom for more than a year. One died and she replaced it. Oops, it was a different sex and suddenly she had eleven mice. The babies were kept in the staffroom for awhile and then went back into the classroom. During spring break, the secretary said she would feed them. There was an escape but the secretary’s children and friends helped collect the escapees – there were seventeen mice in the cage when school started again. Joan Vogt 2012, parent Foothills Elementary As parents at Foothills Elementary from 1985–1997, the memories fly fast and furious for Stephen and myself. The facility was overflowing and strong academic programs, enrichment opportunities, a beautiful library, field trips and many extra-curricular activities were available. The young, vibrant staff was full of life and humour. Parents lined up at 6:00am with coffee and lawn chairs to enroll their children in Kindergarten. Sports, Read Around the World, Kids’ Council, two choirs, Science Fair and Talent Shows kept the school vibrating from dawn ‘til dusk. In her early years there, our youngest daughter thought the school Sports Day must be a city-wide event because of the massive crowds. When Reading Around the World to their destination of Japan one year, students were astounded when, after spending a day experiencing Japanese food, crafts, and culture, two of their male teachers pounded out on to the gym floor dressed in rubber sumo wrestler suits ready to engage in hilarious battle. A memory of the Talent Show one year was the shrieks of shock and delight from students when staff danced on to the stage dressed as giant bunches of grapes singing and dancing to “I Heard it Through the Grapevine”. My husband thinks he remembers lining up at breakfast (slightly exaggerated) to get into the Christmas and Spring Concerts. The concerts were works of art (we will never forget the legendary Mrs. Higglebottom!) and the experience of being surrounded by the singing of the primary and intermediate choirs, with up to 90 students each, was ethereal. Two dedicated groups of parents supported Foothills. The Foothills Community Association organized various activities every evening at the school, raised funds for school projects, built both the adventure playground and the gymnasium stage, ran the concession at Sports’ Day and hosted the annual Family Sweetheart Dance. The Parent Advisory Council met monthly with the principal and volunteer staff members to act as the liaison and the voice between parents and the school. Parent volunteers were active in every classroom. We all knew how fortunate we were to be members of Foothills Elementary–a truly Community School! Kathie Hilder 2013, parent Chinese Dragon c. 2000 Courtesy of Foothills Elementary India Days 1999 Courtesy of Foothills Elementary Foothills Elementary During the 1990’s, the staff and students at Foothills Elementary celebrated different cultures around the world in various ways. Each division from grades 1 to 7 chose two representatives to attend regular Kids’ Council lunch hour meetings in the library. The students would contribute ideas, plan activities, and share them with their classmates. While the Kids’ Council participated in many activities, from making shoe box Christmas gifts for other countries to assisting the Salmon Enhancement program, their Read Around The World celebrations were unique. The teacher-librarian and the sponsor teachers of the Kids’ Council developed a system of allotting “Air Miles” to independent reading in order to support independent reading, increase understanding of other countries and encourage an appreciation of different cultures. Sometimes the destination would be a mystery and other times it would be studied through books, films and artifacts. This was prior to a special day that was set aside to celebrate the country with guest speakers, activities, costumes and sometimes ethnic food ordered from a restaurant. Parents often helped to make these celebrations memorable. In celebration of the multinational world our students lived in, each child was also given a gingerbread boy or girl, cut out of fabric, to costume in a representation of their family heritage. Using these costumed children, the Foothills staff and parents made huge fabric quilts representing every child in the school. Wendy Thiel 2013, retired teacher Foothills Quilts 2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Giscome Elementary 21840 Upper Fraser Road, Gisccome 1916 to Present Mission Statement To develop the abilities of an individual to the fullest of his or her potential in order to fulfill personal aspirations while making a positive contribution to society. Giscome Elementary 1957-2009 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Giscome Elementary 2014 History Courtesy of Raymond Olson The community of Giscome, 45km northeast of Prince George, was originally called Eaglet Lake and was established in 1911. Giscome is named for John Robert Giscome who was born in Jamaica in 1832. In 1855, he went to California to seek his fortune and then, when that did not materialize, he joined about 600 other blacks and went to Victoria, B.C. Giscome reached Quesnel in 1862 where he met his Bahamian partner, Henry McDame. They canoed up the Fraser River and, in the spring of 1862, went by land to Summit Lake along a route later called the Giscome Portage. They then canoed onward to the Peace River before returning to Victoria. In 1874, they discovered gold in a Dease River tributary and prospected there for many years. Giscome died a wealthy man in Victoria in 1907. A one-room school opened in the area in 1916. In 1928, two classrooms and two small rooms were built on two acres of land on Lot 7935 Group 1 Cariboo District. Giscome Elementary Interior of Giscome Elementary 1917 BC Archives Collection F-00396 Giscome Elementary 1917 GISCOME HAPPENINGS Closing of Giscome Mill for the Misses Dorothy Gowers and Mary Welch BC Archives Collection F-04330 season is marked by dance The big mill at Giscome ceased operations for the season on Thursday and on the following evening M. Brommeland gave the men who were leaving town a send-off with a dance in the hotel dining room. The Giscome fivepiece orchestra was in attendance and a very enjoyable evening was spent. A number of guests motored in for the dance from Prince George and other points. The school building at Giscome is receiving the finishing touches and the teachers and pupils will go into their new quarters next week. Tomorrow evening the teachers will give a dance in the building. The Giscome orchestra will provide the music and in view of the excellent condition of the roads there should be a large attendance from surrounding points. of the public school staff entertained the parents and their friends at a social hour on Friday afternoon in the public school. Miss Gowers addressed the parents briefly in connection with the work affecting the welfare of the pupils, and urged for a spirit of co-operation in all departments. Tea was served during the afternoon. October 9, 1930 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen November 8, 1928 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Giscome Elementary 1928-1956 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection During the 1940s and 1950s, Giscome was a thriving town site and many students were able to walk to school. In 1956, the school name was changed to Giscome Superior to reflect the addition of grade 9 students. Grade 10 was added in 1957 and a new school building opened on October 23, 1957. It included four classrooms, a library and a gymnasium with a stage. Giscome Elementary ENROLLMENT YEAR GRADE # 1916 1-8 21 1917 1-10 38 1918-44 No data 1945 1-8 61 1948 K-8 89 1956 1-9 135 1957 1-10 147 1964 1-8 178 1965 1-7 186 1973 K-7 182 1977 K-7 95 1987 K-7 87 1997 K-7 54 2007 K-7 22 2014 K-7 21 In November 1974, the town’s sawmill, once the largest spruce mill in the British Commonwealth, and planer mill were closed which eliminated 180 jobs. The houses belonging to Northwood Pulp were auctioned and moved off the property. The school’s population dropped by half that year. In 2009, the school building was declared unfit for use. The foundation had deteriorated and mold and mildew developed after flooding. Two portables were moved onto the property and the school was demolished. The community lobbied for a new school and, with additional financial assistance from the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George, a $2.4 million modular school was constructed in 2013. It contains two classrooms plus a kitchen as it is also the Eastline Activity Centre for the Regional District. Currently, students come from Willow River to the west and Sinclair Mills to the east, including Newlands, Aleza Lake and Upper Fraser. Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Jeanne Anderson’s class 1946-1947 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Giscome Elementary EARLY STAFF Mr. George E. Apps Miss Madge A. McIntyre Miss Elsie G. Greenidge Miss Madge H. McGregor Miss Jean Travis Mr. C. Max Bedford Miss Dorothy Gowers Miss Mary C. Welch Miss Daisy J. Brealey Mr. Wesley D. Black Miss Marjorie A. Westwood Mr. Stanley S. Boshier Miss Genevieve Churchman Mrs. A. D. Abercrombie Mr. Elsie J. Burbank Miss Anne Kennett Miss Theresa A. Parnas Miss L. Parnas Miss Jeanne (Walker) Anderson Miss W. J. Van Volkingburgh Mr. R. D. White Giscome Staff 1979, Bill Tuomi, principal SD 57 Education Heritage Collection PRINCIPALS Bill Fisher Merv Dyck Don Currie Bill Whalley John Turner Bill Tuomi Maurice Vignal Jack Morrison Eric Dodd Rob Howardson Tim Yule Kathie Hilder (shared with Buckhorn) Steve Wyer (shared with Buckhorn) Rob Larson (shared with Blackburn) Lori Dennill (shared with Blackburn and Buckhorn) Lillian Coulling’s class 1984-1985 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Giscome Elementary SPORTS The school’s team name is the Giscome Eagles. School sports have included basketball, volleyball and cross-country running. While at the school, Principal Bill Tuomi would load the volleyball team into his station wagon and go to Upper Fraser, Red Rock or Shady Valley. He always chose schools of similar size for his team to play against. Students have also participated in the Terry Fox Run and Jump Rope for Heart. In 2001, students Martina Sande and Gus Blank raised over $475 for the Terry Fox Foundation with a total of $536 being donated. Prince George Girls Meet Giscome Teams in Two Basketball Games Basketball teams representing the Commercial Girls and the teachers in the local schools played two interesting matches with teams from Giscome on Thursday evening last. The Commercial Girls took their match with a score of 4-2. Their team was composed of Mary Geiger, Helen Kyle, Vera Foot, Helen Goodell and Jean Corning. The opposing Giscome team was picked from Mrs. Riley, Miss Roberts, Miss McRae, Mrs. Berry, Mrs. Prestline and Mrs. Sandy. The match was refereed by K. Nichols, of Giscome. In the second match the school teachers were represented by Marjorie Roberts, Thelma Tittemore, Christine Irwin, Ruth Hornsby and Audrey Coton, and Giscome by Mrs. Gillis, Mrs. Neil, Mrs. Portlance, Mrs. Miller and Miss Riley. The play ended in the teachers’ favour with a score of 12-5. The match was refereed by T.S. Carmichael. Arrangements have been made for a return match in Giscome next week. June 19, 1930 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Giscome Superior School team shirts1950s Giscome Elementary t-shirt 1990s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Local Happenings The Prince George basketball teams divided honours with Giscome teams in the return matches played at Giscome on Tuesday evening. In the match between the Commercial Girls and Giscome, refereed by V.L. Chapman, Prince George won with an 11-9 score; and in the match between the Prince George school teachers and Giscome, refereed by Kim Nichols, the Giscome team won with a 12-10 score. Note: V.L. Chapman taught at Prince George Elementary School. June 26, 1930 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Giscome Elementary ACTIVITIES For a few years in the 1970s, Giscome Elementary had winter inter-school craft days. The grade 6 and 7 students went to other schools for a day to participate in sharing craft skills. When they went to Upper Fraser there were also students there from Sinclair Mills. Once they went to Bear Lake and were billeted with families overnight. Giscome students regularly participated in science fairs. In 1991, Nicolas Rud and Martina Wessels were among the top ten entrants at the zone science fair that qualified them for that year’s Central Interior Science Fair. In October 2001, Alison Rebinsky conducted dance and movement workshops for students and staff that culminated in a public performance. Other activities that students have participated in over the years include chess, choir, bowling, swimming and skiing. Chess 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Swimming 2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection In April 2001, the Giscome Elementary School Parent Advisory Council presented its second annual Dinner Theatre. The play was a mystery farce called “Exit Who?” and was directed by Shirley Penny. It involved a suspense writer in a rented house in Vermont that was inhabited by spies and secret agents. Field trips have been taken to places such as Vancouver, Mount Robson, Willow River Forest and ‘Ksan. Visiting ‘Ksan 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Mount Robson 1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Giscome Elementary Did You Know? I n 1936, the Division I teacher received a yearly salary of $1150 and the Division II teacher received $970. By 1943, the salaries were $1550 for the Division I teacher and $1300 for the Division II teacher. T wo sisters-in-law with almost the same name taught at Giscome at the same time: Jean Innes Anderson (née Smith) from 1944-1964 and Jeanne Margaret Anderson (née Walker) from 1943-1961. I n 1950, a request was made to the Department of Education by Mr. A.R. Spurr, the General Manager of Eagle Lake Sawmills, and Mr. A. Bragg for a larger school to be built in Giscome in order to accommodate students in the area up to grade 9. Due to the enrolments and economic conditions, William H. Grant, Inspector of Schools, determined that this was not necessary. T he original school site was owned by Eagle Lake Spruce Mills Limited and this company went bankrupt. The Board of School Trustees investigated purchasing the land for $1.00, as no taxes had been paid on it for many years. L illian (Strom) Coulling grew up in the area and began teaching at Giscome in 1957. Every few years she heard talk that the mill might close but it didn’t finally happen until lumber prices dropped considerably in 1974. She continued to teach at the much smaller school for a number of years. I n March 1973, the grade 1-3 students, after a week of learning about trains, rode on the CNR from Giscome to Prince George and then made the return trip by charter bus. Pancakes Finance Train Excursion Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen March, 1973 Giscome Elementary I n the late 1970s, CN began blasting and crushing ballast behind the school that would often shake the school building. I n the early 1980s, there was the possibility that the school would be closed. After numerous letters to the editor, public meetings and consultation with the school board, the board rescinded their motion of closure. I n June1983, Giscome Elementary presented a one-act musical entitled “The Popcorn Man”. Mrs. Eileen Walski created the set, props and costumes. Mr. Keith Hollingsworth of Mackenzie painted the backdrop. Pro SD 5 gra 7 Ed m fo r“ ion H The Po erita p ge C corn Man ollec tion ” 19 ucat 83 Memories My family has passed down an interesting anecdote about my grandfather, George E. Apps. The story goes that he stepped off the train at his first teaching post in the central interior (provincial records indicate that he was the first teacher in Giscome) and made inquiries into the location of the school. The person he contacted led him to the site where a pile of lumber stood and he was thus informed that he must first build the school! My family has never been much for embellishment so I trust there is truth to this story. My grandfather later moved to Cumberland on Vancouver Island where he continued his career as a teacher and principal. He became well known and upon his death, around 1980, a local mountain was named Mount Apps. Doug Coletti 2013 In January 1943 I went to Giscome. I was slated to be the primary teacher because I was less experienced and younger. I minded my own little business in my little primary room with all the neat little kids. The big boys would keep at the new senior teacher until every night she was crying. After about two weeks, the School Board secretary came to the school and asked me to take the senior room and let Miss Parnas have the primary room. I said yes. Not long after the switch, I was walking backwards between the desks. One of the girls stuck out her foot near the back of the room. I didn’t get hurt but the class just let go one big horse laugh. I said, “All seven of you girls line up at the front.” The strap came out from Giscome Elementary the desk drawer. I went down the line and strapped all seven of them. I said, “Now you can go home and tell your mothers what happened. If I find out who did it, I’ll let you back into the school.” Next day, one of the girls took responsibility for having done it. From then on, my reputation was made. I had very little trouble and a whole lot of pleasure out of teaching the group. An interview with Jeanne Anderson 2000, retired teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I have a few interesting memories from my time at Giscome Elementary. One year, two sets of parents had a feud going on and would escort their children to school carrying rifles. One day, a family sent their three-year old girl to school with the sister that was in my grade 1 class so they could go shopping. One winter, a maintenance worker drove the snow blower off the roof. Darlene Meyers 2006, retired teacher Trailer used as Giscome teacherage 1973 Courtesy of Darlene Meyers, retired teacher Interior of trailer 1973 Courtesy of Darlene Meyers, retired teacher I attended Giscome Elementary from 1961 to 1964. My family originally immigrated to Burnaby from Northern Ireland in 1952. In Giscome, there were also immigrants from Portugal and the Azores Islands and Italy and Hungary. I have a vivid memory of a Japanese family arriving to work at the mill. They had a company house but absolutely nothing to go in the house. Everyone was walking up and down the street bringing things to their house to help them out. It was wonderful. Our house was designated for the Personnel Manager and that was my father’s job at the Eagle Lake Sawmill. My mom didn’t like us crossing the train tracks to school but we did so at a designated spot close to the office building at the mill. Sometimes my father would wave to my siblings and myself from his office window. My favourite memories were of the sports days and since my birthday was in July, I think I competed with younger kids and therefore got lots of ribbons! My favourite events were the high jump and the long jump and I would spend hours in the evening practicing. My rival was Cathy Lee and her parents ran the General Store. Mary Jacqueline (Jackie) McLaughlin, former student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Giscome Elementary I worked at Giscome Elementary from 1975-1987. My positions included teaching grades 6 and 7, kindergarten teacher, learning assistance teacher, teacher-librarian and principal. One spring day in 1977, while the kindergarten teacher, I loaded my fifteen students into my station wagon and went up an unused forestry road behind the school. As we slowly approached a blind corner, a mother bear sent her two cubs up a poplar tree. Before I knew it, I had fifteen tots in the front seat. We stopped and watched quietly and soon the mother bear signaled for the cubs to back down and they disappeared into a nearby ravine. Whenever I see any of these former students, it’s this bear adventure that they remember. Shortly after arriving at Giscome a Santa Claus was needed so I volunteered and I continued to do so for a number of years. My most memorable entrance was on my snowmobile. During the last song by the children, “Here Comes Santa Claus”, two grade 7 boys opened the rear doors. I roared in, grabbed my black sack off the rack and proceeded along a centre aisle toward the stage. I had lots of room at the back of the gym but you should have seen the audience scramble out of the way. Along with Giscome teacher Sheri-Lynn Standen, I started a social club that included potlucks at my teacherage as well as inviting friends to attend the Willow River Recreation Association dances at the school. It was great to support a group that, in turn, helped the school in so many ways. Bill Tuomi, former teacher and principal SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I taught at Giscome from 1984-1989. The school was a very important focus for the community and everyone seemed to prefer the country life. The parents and children alike were a very friendly bunch. The events I remember most were the concerts, sports days, year-end picnics at Harold Mann Park, bingos and the incredible food at the community dances. At Christmas my grade 6/7 class usually put on a play that we wrote as a group. We tried as much as possible to make it humorous and work in characters from the community. A very special memory occurred in May 1986 when my class took me to the gym. Inside, the whole school was present along with most of the parents. On a series of tables was placed a huge cake and presents piled up to overflowing. My wife was there with our baby son. I remember the girls from my class taking over with the baby. They carried him around and made sure that those who wanted to hold him did it right. Meanwhile my wife and I opened the baby presents. Later everyone had a slice of cake. I still feel very emotional when I remember that day. Erich Franz, former teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Glenview Elementary 7310 Cluff Road, Prince George “Glenview Grizzlies on Track to Success” 1972 to Pr esent MISSION STATEMENT    To support effort To develop potential To achieve excellence Gl e n vi e w Sch o o l 1 989 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY Glenview Elementary began its existence in the fall of 1972, sharing facilities at Austin Road Elementary and at the Kelly Road Junior Secondary Annex. By the spring of 1973, relocated portables had been set up at the Cluff Road site and the staff and children made the trek to their school. In 1974, construction of the permanent school was commenced by NORCAN Construction, and was completed in February 1975 for the official opening. The school population dropped when the grade 6 and 7 classes were assigned to Heather Park Middle School. The numbers increased due to the closure of adjacent schools: Hart Highway, Wildwood, Shady Valley, and Springwood Elementaries. By September 2010, the grade 6’s and 7’s had returned to Glenview. Some of the relocated students from Shady Valley included a considerable number of Shelley First Nation Reserve students who travel up to 30 minutes by bus to Glenview School. The name of the school comes from the eponymous subdivision: Glenview Estates. The land and company, owned by Helmut Langer, was named by his lawyer whose wife was a Scot, hence the “glen”. Glenview is now the only school on the east side of the Hart Highway. Glenview Elementary BOARD ACCUSED OF BAD PLANNING Bad planning by the school board is to blame for a decision Tuesday to break up eight room Glenview Elementary and use the parts to ease crowding at two other schools, trustee Walter Shelest charged today. Shelest said the decision is unfair to the Glenview area where next year pupils must be sent by bus to Austin Road Elementary to attend shift classes. The board made the decision Tuesday because of serious crowding problems at Wildwood Elementary and North Nechako Elementary which are not included in school building programs for the coming year. Glenview, a so-called “relocatable” school, will be split in half to make fourroom additions for the over-crowded schools and a permanent 10 room school will be built to replace it. Until the new Glenview school is opened in November, the students will be sent by bus across the Hart Highway to Austin Road Elementary where they will be accommodated on a shift basis. The decision was opposed by Shelest and trustee Bob Affleck who said it seemed a little unfair that the Glenview pupils should be bumped out of their comfortable school into an over crowded one. July 3, 1974 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen ENROLLMENT YEAR 1972 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 GRADES # K-7 220 K-7 307 K-7 226 K-7 216 K-7 185 K-7 176 K-5 166 K-5 156 K-7 218 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) G l e n vi e w Mod ula r Cl as sr oom 201 2 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection S TA F F Glenview Elementary FIRST STAFF Jack Blair (principal) Norma Browne Marg Johnson Marian Pryor Sue Widdas Mary-Anne Poetsch Diane Calderbank G lenv iew St aff 1979 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection P R I N C I PALS Jack Blair Mary Ann Lyall Bob Lindsay Dave Ross Lynn Boomhower Rick Manning Jack Morrison Val Coopersmith Bruce Walkey Gail Walraven Kathie Hilder Tim Yule Div. 6 G lenv iew Cl a ss 199 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Glenview Elementary C O M M U N I T Y I N V O LV E M E N T The parent community of the school has always been a strong supporter of activities and fundraisers. Over the years, the families and businesses have been involved with playground development, family dances, fun fairs, spring arts bazaars, PAC plant sales, sports days, contests, field trips, musicals, turkey trot runs, and other activities. A major project in 2009 resulted in parents, guardians and extended families sharing their family stories and life lessons. In 2010, the Shelley Reserve Aboriginal students joined the school population, which initiated a relationship with the band and resulted in the hiring of an Aboriginal Support Worker for the school. P are n ts Bu i l d P l ay g ro u n d 198 8 S tu de n t s a t Ho m e P ar ty 1 991 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection SD 57 Education Heritage Collection F r e n c h Ca n ad ia n D a n ci n g with Luc ette Brind 19 90 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Turke y Tr ot 199 0 Sp o n so r P GI F o o d s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection S T U D E N T AC T I V I T I E S Glenview Elementary Lib ra ry Cl ub 198 3 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Col le ct ions Day B ir d & W asp N e st s 1 9 8 6 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection A lic e in t he La nd of Oz M us ica l 1 997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection GRADE 5 STUDENT JOINS IRVING GUTTMAN AND JUDITH FORST AS VANCOUVER OPERA HONORARY CHAIR By Jessica Werb ancouver Opera has appointed three honorary chairs for its 50th golden anniverV sary season, one of whom is a grade five student at Glenview Elementary School in Prince George. Ten-year-old Justin Woolfrey, who attended a recent Vancouver Opera In Schools performance of Veda Hille's Jack Pine opera, is in esteemed company. He joins international stage director Irving Guttman, artistic founder of Vancouver Opera, who mounted a famed 1963 production of Norma featuring Dame Joan Sutherland and Marilyn Horne; and internationally acclaimed coloratura mezzosoprano Judith Forst, who most recently appeared with VO last May as Herodias in Richard Strauss's Salome. "Children need a chance to learn about all kinds of things, especially the things they have not heard of—and to enjoy the good things that learning can bring," said Woolfrey in a news release. "You never know what is inside a person until they have an opportunity and this is an opportunity for me to share who I am with others, and encourage other kids to always give it your best shot, no matter what.” September 24, 2009 Courtesy of straight.com: Vancouver’s Online Source Glenview Elementary B.C. LIONS BLITZ PRINCE GEORGE SCHOOL PRINCE GEORGE—B.C. Lions players were joined today by Education Minister Shirley Bond, teachers and students at Glenview Elementary school to officially launch the Green Zone Sustainability Blitz. This tour of 50 schools throughout British Columbia will see the Lions take an environmental message to over 25,000 students. “B.C. Lions are role models in our province, and by their work in schools they are bringing the important message of sustainability to the next generation of leaders,” said Bond. “By involving students in energetic and fun activities, we know they will learn about taking personal responsibility for the health of our planet. I want to thank the B.C. Lions for partnering with us on this exciting new program for B.C. students.” Glenview Elementary students took part in a fun and informative pep rally which featured B.C. Lions players talking to the students about environmental responsibility. Students were engaged in competitive games that focused on the value of recycling, water and energy conservation. The Green Zone Sustainability Blitz is a partnership between the B.C. Lions, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Environment, Plutonic Power and Terasen Gas. The Province contributed $120,000 to support the program. Following the pep rally, the players visited a grade 5 class for a more in-depth lesson. The players invited students to join the Green Zone Challenge by signing a pledge to commit to environmentally sustainable practices. April 6, 2009 Courtesy of Ministry of Education News Release Hu uuuuuuuug g gg g g gg g eeee Snow Fort 2 011 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The COIN-spiracy at Glenview Glenview Elementary NB: The Coin-spiracy revolves around the launch and tracking of a uniquely coded kindness coin called a UNI – short for the universal nature of kindness. Each UNI Coin is launched by a school or youth group. To participate, the school or youth group commits 3 kind acts: one for self, one for the environment and one for another. Then, the coin (along with a travelling document called a "pass-port") is passed on to the recipient of the kind act who in turn joins the Coin-spiracy by committing 3 kind acts and passing on the coin. Over 250 UNI coins have been earned and presented in more than 45 countries. The students of Glenview Elementary School, grades K to 5, enthusiastically, along with the sponsorship of CANFOR, agreed to participate in this fundraiser. The Three Acts of Kindness began in January 2004. Jump Rope for Kindness was an act of kindness for themselves as it improved everyone’s cardio-vascular health. It also raised $1,500 for the local Heart and Stroke Foundation. Kindness for one’s environment involved a competition of sorts where the focus was on the improvement of school cleanliness. Along with the support of custodial staff, two classes each week won recognition for the most improved school environment. Students agreed to use anti-bacterial gels in the school in order to prevent colds and flu. The third thrust was kindness toward others and that was a dual effort. For Valentine’s Day, students made 100 Valentine cards and presented them to the non-ambulatory patients at Jubilee Lodge, Prince George Regional Hospital. Significantly, many of the residents had not received a Valentine from anyone in years. In some cases, it had been as long as six decades! The second effort of kindness toward others involved a Cakewalk fundraiser. The school parents donated 96 cakes and $100 was raised and donated to the Pediatric Ward of the hospital. This was a tribute to Pam Loveng, the sister of a student. Pam had been the recipient of a heart transplant. The UNI coin and pass-port were handed to David Wharrie who accepted them on behalf of the Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation. On June 9, 2004, a special assembly was held to celebrate Glenview’s participation in Coin-spiracy. Mr. Lyn Hall, a School Board 57 trustee, presented the pupils with a certificate of acknowledgment. Then, a representative from CANFOR bestowed the students with the Coin-spiracy Treasure Book as winners of the campaign’s “Special Acknowledgment” . The “little school that could” has made significant contributions to themselves and to their T r ust ee Ly n Ha ll P re sent ing community. Co i n - sp i r ac y Ce r ti f i c at e 2 004 Courtesy of www.investinakinderworld.com Glenview Elementary Did you Know? G LENVIEW ELEMENTARY WON THE 2006 “BEST READING PROGRAM IN BRITISH COLUMBIA” AWARD FROM THE INTERNATIONAL READING ASSOCIATION AS A CULMINATION OF EFFORTS TO IMPROVE LITERACY LEVELS. THIS NORTH AMERICAN LITERACY GROUP, WITH CHAPTERS ALL ACROSS THE CONTINENT, SENT THEIR JUDGES TO CORRELATE THE FIVE-PAGE SUBMISSION, BY TEACHER DEBBIE KOEHN, WITH ACTUAL SCHOOL PRACTICE. THE RESULTS WERE DETERMINED TO BE “A PERFECT SCORE”. STUDENTS BECAME SUCCESSFUL UNDER A PROCESS OF REGULAR READING LESSONS, A $10,000 INVESTMENT IN THE SCHOOL LIBRARY, AN EARLY LEARNER PROGRAM, A BREAKFAST READING CLUB, SCHOOL-WIDE BOOK STUDIES, AN EMPHASIS ON WRITING, DISTRICT SUPPORT IN SUPPLYING STAFF PLANNING TIME, AND PARENT INVOLVEMENT. THE PRIZES INCLUDED: A $2,500 STARBUCKS ABC CANADA LITERACY AWARD AND A $3000 LITERACY GRANT FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA. AS WELL, THE STAFF OBSERVED STUDENTS WERE BECOMING MORE CONFIDENT AND HAD THE ABILITY TO DISCERN QUALITY LITERATURE FROM MASS-MARKET PUBLICATIONS. WHO KNEW THAT READING COULD BRING SO MANY REWARDS? G LENVIEW STUDENTS FOUND SUCCESS IN THE GUINNESS BOOK OF RECORDS. GLENVIEW STUDENTS WERE PART OF THE HUNDREDS OF SCHOOLS AROUND THE WORLD PARTICIPAT- ING IN A CHALLENGE FOR THE MOST PEOPLE READING ALOUD SIMULTANEOUSLY IN MULTIPLE LOCATIONS. THE ENDEAVOR INCLUDED 223,363 PARTICIPANTS IN 23 COUNTRIES ALL READING ON DECEMBER 12, 2006. WALDEN MEDIA COORDINATED THE EFFORT AS A PROMOTION FOR THE MOVIE, CHARLOTTE’S WEB, AND THUS A PASSAGE FROM THE E. B. WHITE BOOK WAS READ BY ALL. AFTER AN AGONIZING TEN MONTHS OF WAITING TO HEAR THE RESULTS, GLENVIEW PUPILS WERE ECSTATIC TO HEAR THAT THEIR EFFORTS DID RESULT IN A OCTOBER 2007 CONFIRMATION OF A WORLD RECORD. G l e n vi e w S t u de n t s Re a di n g SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Glenview Elementary K a ndaha r Schoo l G ir ls 200 7 Courtesy of the Walraven Family S DREN. GLENVIEW STUDENTS STUDIED THE BOOK, THE LIBRARIAN OF BASRAH, A TRUE ACTUDENTS AT GLENVIEW ELEMENTARY PURCHASED SUPPLIES FOR AFGHAN SCHOOL CHIL- COUNT OF A LIBRARIAN REMOVING AND HIDING BOOKS FROM THE BASRAH MAIN LIBRARY WHEN THE BOMBING OF THE CITY JEOPARDIZED THE BUILDING. SHE AND HER ASSOCIATES WERE ABLE TO HIDE 30,000 VOLUMES SAFELY. THE GLENVIEW STUDENTS WERE SO MOVED BY THE PLIGHT OF AFGHANI CITIZENS THAT THEY DECIDED THEY HAD TO HELP THE CHILDREN. THE PRINCIPAL, GAIL WALRAVEN, MET WITH ENTHUSIASTIC STUDENTS TO PLAN A STRATEGY AND HER SON, ADRIAN, WHO WORKED AS AN OFFICER FOR THE CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AGENCY (CIDA), OVERSAW THE VENTURE. BY COLLECTING EMPTY DRINK CANS AND JUICE CONTAINERS, STUDENTS RAISED $500 FOR THEIR CAUSE. THE DONATIONS PROVIDED A NOTEBOOK AND PEN FOR EACH PUPIL AT THE MAIN SCHOOL FOR GIRLS IN KANDAHAR PLUS A ZIP BINDER WITH CALCULATOR FOR HONOUR STUDENTS. ALL ITEMS WERE TO BE PURCHASED LOCALLY IN SUPPORT OF LOCAL MERCHANTS AND TO PROMOTE THE LOCAL ECONOMY. THIS WAS ANOTHER EXAMPLE OF GLENVIEW STUDENTS “COIN-SPIRACY” PARTICIPATION. Glenview Elementary Memories One early fall morning of 1979, as the leaves gently fell on to the expansive playground of Glenview Elementary School, I noted the strange frenetic activities of a large group of neighbourhood dogs. No leash law(s) then. Upon further observation, and as the pack moved closer and closer to the side entrance of the school, I discovered the growling, yipping, yapping, snarling and biting actions and sounds of the pack were the result of a large moose carcass that had been dragged down the road from a neighboring carport. Knowing that the recess bell was soon to sound and 260+ students would emerge onto the playground, I announced an “in day,” to the groans of the staff, and contacted Wildlife Services. For approximately 25 minutes, two gentlemen tracked and netted the dogs and dragged the carcass off campus to an awaiting truck. The net was lifted and the dogs charged the men who ran to their truck and drove down Dawson Road with a team of mighty mad dogs in pursuit. Nose prints still remain on the windows of the west side of the building to this date…especially the principal's office. Mary Ann Lyall 2012, retired principal One of the saddest Christmas vacations I can remember was 1972 -1973. My grade 2/3 class was finishing off their Christmas gift project, a clay mobile and a card to be given to their parents. It was snowing heavily and so, at lunch, Danny Andrews’ father came to pick him up, insisting that the family had to leave right away as the trip to Kamloops would be long and he wanted to get as far as possible before darkness fell. Danny, of course, wanted to finish wrapping his project but Danny, and his brother Josh, departed with their parents. Rick Manning, the principal, phoned me at home to tell me that there had been a terrible accident. The whole Andrews family: dad, mom, Joshua and Danny had been killed in a car accident. It was especially difficult returning after the holidays as there was Danny’s Christmas project waiting to be gifted. His grandparents came and took his belongings and his project, and his desk was removed. That spring the school began an annual fund raising run to honour the boys (Andrews Memorial Run for muscular dystrophy research) and McDonald’s, where their mother worked, became one of the sponsors. Joey Hawryluk 2012, retired teacher C ros s C ountr y Run 1 993 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Hart Highlands Elementary 2233 Sussex Lane, Prince George 1975 to Pr esent MISSION STATEMENT To provide opportunities for students as lifelong learners to acquire academic and social skills in a Safe, Helpful, Accountable, Respectful and Positive (SHARP) manner Ha rt Hig hla nds El em ent ar y 2 012 Courtesy of Karen Simmons, retired teacher HISTORY Hart Highlands Elementary School was established in 1975 with 102 students. The inaugural classes shared the Austin Road Elementary School facility and teachers that first year. By September of 1976, there was a full staff hired for Hart Highlands with Bet Siddall as principal, but they were still without a physical school building. Shortly after the 1976 school year began, the four Hart Highlands classes were relocated to the Kelly Road Secondary School Annex, while still sharing the gym and library at Austin Road. It was the spring of 1977 when Hart Highlands officially opened its doors to staff and students, with the library opening in May. When Hart Highlands opened, most students came from houses in the neighbouring subdivision, which was largely made up of single-family homes. No students were bussed at this time. Enrollment climbed to 373 students in 1997 making it necessary to add four portables to the property. By 1998, a major renovation project included some much needed facilities for the growing population. In addition to five classrooms, there was an expanded library, modern computer lab with twenty-four Macs, and a large multipurpose room. Hart Highlands Elementary When Heather Park Middle School opened in September 2000, grade 6 and 7 students relocated to this new school. At that time, approximately 250 students were enrolled in kindergarten to grade 5. In June 2002, Hart Highway Elementary School closed and its students were relocated to Hart Highlands, bumping up the numbers to 350. Budget restraints in the district once again resulted in school closures and the middle school reverted to an elementary school. In 2010, grade 6 and 7 students returned to Hart Highlands Elementary. ENROLLME N T YEAR 1975 1978 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2009 2011 GRADES # 1-3, 6, 7 102 K-7 200 K-7 266 K-7 374 K-7 358 K-7 397 K-5 295 K-5 342 K-5 262 K-7 377 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) H a rt H ig h l an d s G r ade 2 C la ss 1 9 8 0 School Photo Album 1979-1980 Ha rt Hig hla nds G ra de 5 Cl as s 2 010 School Photo Album 2009-2010 Hart Highlands Elementary S TA F F P R I N C I PAL S Bet Siddall John Turner John Suderman Rob McIntosh Tony Cable Art Brown Rick Urquhart V I C E P R I N C I PA L S Lorraine Burns Phil Jensen Art Brown Lynda Stoppler Bryan Kineshanko Jane Anderlini (zone VP) F I R S T S TA F F Dianne Rodney Bet Siddall (principal) Jim Altomare Ina Disbrow Lynn Naef Karen Cosh Jan Lowe Bev Catling Maureen Coughlin Ha rt Hig hla nds St aff 1976 School Photo Album 1976-1977 Ha rt Hig hla nds St aff 2010 School Photo Album 2009-2010 Hart Highlands Elementary Sports ACTIVITIES Floor hockey, basketball, track and field, wrestling, volleyball, cross-country running, relays, turkey trot, sports day, milk run Special days Weird Hair Day, Twins Day, Pizza Day, Heritage Day, book fair, science fair Arts Cultural performances, choir, operettas, ventriloquist, Children’s Festival, Singfest Miscellaneous Chess club, lunch monitors, swimming program, library club, computers Family focused Christmas concerts, Family Dance, Talent Show, Open House, BBQ, Fun Fair Support of local and national charities Jump Rope for Heart, SPCA, Salvation Army, Terry Fox Run Memories Some of my best memories from Hart Highlands Elementary School are: Going to Camp McInnis with grade seven classes. We had so much fun doing hikes, kayaking, playing team games, doing skits and singing around the campfire. Coaching the grade sixes and sevens basketball, volleyball and soccer. We traveled to different schools, including Mackenzie, to play in games and tournaments. My husband and I also organized a School District No. 57 Soccer Tournament with both teams from Hart Highlands coming in first! Margaret McWalter 2012, retired teacher Cr os s C ountry Running 199 1 Courtesy of Karen Simmons, retired teacher Hart Highlands Elementary Musical Memories Some very talented teachers have been part of the school staff. In June 1977, students performed Two Gun Sal and Alice and Wonderland. In the early 1990’s, the music program was especially noteworthy. There was a primary and an intermediate choir. Several operettas were staged, such as H.M.S. Pinafore, Clowns: Under the Big Top, Tom Sawyer, Mirror, Mirror, Pirates of Penzance, and Going West. I will always remember the Operettas at Hart Highlands...both from the chorus standing on risers in the background and then finally having my own part in 'Going West' in grade 6. It always felt like the whole school was involved in some capacity and, every year, the audience was filled with enthusiastic parents who had us convinced we were incredible actors - despite the odd pitch problem in a song and a missed line here or there. Melanie Simmons 2012, former student Tom Sa wyer Pr oduc tion 199 0 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen One year I taught music in one of the old, condemned portables. I decorated the room with wallpaper, a piano, risers and plants. The sun shone in from the massive east facing window, reflecting light from the brilliantly polished floors. It became a haven. Despite the beautification project, I received notice that demolition was inevitable. The next morning, I noticed a man sitting on a chair outside the door holding a sign that said, “I protest.” My custodian had created a realistic figure from nylon stockings and placed him there the night before to protest the destruction! Happily our portable was replaced by an incredible music room in the new addition. Jan Jensen 2012, retired teacher “I Pr otest!” Courtesy of Jan Jensen, retired teacher Hart Highlands Elementary Did you Know? E RIN HEWITT WAS A BRIGHT, CHEERFUL LITTLE GIRL WHO ATTENDED HART HIGHLANDS IN KINDERGARTEN, GRADES ONE AND TWO. SHE WORKED DILIGENTLY AND ADDED SUNSHINE TO EVERYDAY LIFE. BUT ONE DAY, ERIN HAD TO GO TO B.C. CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL FOR CANCER TREATMENT. AFTER A THREE-YEAR BATTLE WITH CANCER, ERIN PASSED AWAY. SIX MONTHS BEFORE SHE DIED, HART HIGHLANDS SCHOOL HELD A SPECIAL ASSEMBLY IN HER HONOUR. AT THIS TIME, THE “ERIN HEWITT SUNSHINE AWARD” WAS UNVEILED. EACH JUNE, THIS AWARD IS GIVEN TO A STUDENT WHO CONSISTENTLY SHOWS DETERMINATION, CHEERFULNESS, COURAGE AND—MOST OF ALL—SUNSHINE. Er in Hewitt Suns hine A war d Courtesy of Karen Simmons, retired teacher A N ABORIGINAL WORKER WORKED WITH INTERMEDIATE STUDENTS ON THE SCHOOL MOTTO, CREATING THIS MURAL OF TILES IN 2007-2008. M ura l of T iles Courtesy of Karen Simmons, retired teacher W HEN ART BROWN WAS LEAVING HART HIGHLANDS IN 2005, HIS GRADE FIVE CLASS MADE THIS QUILT. MR. BROWN DONATED THE QUILT TO THE SCHOOL WHERE IT NOW HANGS IN THE MAIN HALLWAY. Q u il t M ad e b y G r ad e 5 S t u d e n t s Courtesy of Karen Simmons, retired teacher Hart Highlands Elementary Memories When John Suderman officiated at his last assembly at Hart Highlands, he wanted to thank the parents and kids for his enjoyable time at the school. His thank you was an incredible vocal rendition of the song, “Brigadoon,” very much appreciated by all attending. Gord Simmons 2012, parent of former student I remember getting very excited about coming up with a different idea each year for the Bike Parade and putting the whole project together. Dad and I would always work together on a concept and create something to attach to my bike. I was always proud, because my bike placed in the top three a few times! Then once the parade was over it was time for the competitions. I couldn’t wait to see how many ribbons I could win. It was exciting! I wanted to have as many as possible pinned to my shirt by the end of the day. Bi ke Pa ra de 1 990 Courtesy of Julie Stanley, former student Julie Stanley 2012, former student Throughout the 24 years I was at Hart Highlands, I was privileged to work with hundreds of very capable, responsible, committed students. The Library Club students absorbed most of the daily circulation tasks. It gave them a sense of purpose and place within the school and they learned many skills which furthered their knowledge and understanding of the inner workings of a library. Many students later went on to work part-time at the Public Library and a few even became librarians in their adult lives. Indeed, this relationship was a win-win for all of us. Debbie Hartley 2012, retired teacher Hart Highlands Elementary It was May, 1976. I had just completed my final University of Victoria practicum at Highglen Elementary and was ready to return to Victoria for the summer. Before leaving, I was eager to find Hart Highlands Elementary where I had been hired to teach grade one beginning the first of September. As I drove around the neighbourhood, I asked several people where the school was. They all had the same vague answer. With a wave of a hand, it was generally, "Just over there somewhere." No wonder - the school had not yet been built! Eventually, I was directed to Sussex Lane and there it was - a gravel pit with several stakes in the ground. Needless to say, we began the school year on shift at Austin Road Elementary. Ina (Disbrow) Anderson 2012, retired teacher In 1998-1999, I visited Springwood Elementary where I discovered the wonderful glass murals that Ian King's classes had created over the years. I was so impressed that I decided to have my grade 6/7 class make one too. All the students in my class drew pictures of outdoor activities at the school, and as a group we selected a nice variety to use. With Ian's help, and that of a couple of "moms", we got started. About eight students worked on the mural at a time during art classes and spare time. It took us a couple of months to complete and, during that time, everyone became very proud of what we were accomplishing. I never got tired of seeing it and feel it was a wonderful welcome to visitors to Hart Highlands. Linda Wilbur 2012, retired teacher Mosa ic 2 012 Courtesy of Karen Simmons, retired teacher Harwin Elementary 1955 to Pr esent 1193 Harper Street, Prince George MISSION STATEMENT To provide individual opportunities for all school community members to learn and grow together in a safe and cooperative environment by acquiring the knowledge, skills and attitudes for life long success and happiness. HISTORY The original eight classroom $114,000 school opened in 1955 as South Central Elementary with a population of 286 students. John Cooke was the first principal. After an addition to the building in 1959, the school was renamed Harwin Elementary. Ha rwi n El ement a ry 20 09 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The enrollment climbed to over 600 students in the 1960’s and housed many of the district’s special needs programs in the 1970’s and 1980’s at the Aurora site, a separate building on the Harwin grounds. The main building was also home over the years to the northern component of Simon Fraser University, the District E.S.L. Coordinator, the regional headquarters for SET-BC, a Duchess Park Storefront Program and a Y Day Care Facility. Harwin School Goals 2008 For all students to achieve a high standard of reading fluency and comprehension For all students to demonstrate a high moral standard of behaviour For all students to experience success in mathematics Harwin Elementary ENROLLME N T YEAR 1955 1957 1959 1961 1963 1965 1967 1969 1971 1973 1975 1977 1979 1981 1983 1985 1987 1989 1991 1993 1995 1997 1999 2001 2003 2005 2008 2009 GRADES # 1-6 286 1-6 343 1-6 551 1-6 620 1-7 610 1-7 687 1-7 682 1-7 637 1-7 591 K-7 465 K-7 416 K-7 370 K-7 299 K-7 311 K-7 277 K-7 253 K-7 263 K-7 199 K-7 197 K-7 194 K-7 218 K-7 176 K-7 157 K-7 166 K-7 257 K-7 217 K-7 186 K-7 187 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Gr ad e 5 C l ass 19 61, C. B e ll , T e a ch e r SD 57 Education Heritage Collection P R I N C I PA L S 1955-2 0 1 0 John Cooke Hector Sutherland Ralph Gardner Bob Moss George Petrescu Tom Pidcock Chris Boyle Bet Siddall Wayne Geisbrecht Dave Friesen Gerry Sheanh & Anjula Corbin Bruce Ballantyne Brian Chappell V I C E - P R I N C I PA L S 1959-2010 Bill Smeaton Dave Vawter Charlie Bruce Jennifer Johnston Gail Walraven Cindy Heitman Kelly Johansen Kathy Richardson Harwin Elementary MODERN HISTORY Harwin is designated as an inner city community school and thus receives additional funding for a school meals program, Community School Coordinator and Aboriginal Education Workers. Harwin had a 1.2 million dollar green renovation in 2000 which included a refit of the heating and ventilation system, the remodeling of the library and office area, the refurbishing of washrooms, new flooring and an upgrade to the exterior. All students from Seymour Elementary school and some students from KGV school were transferred to Harwin when those schools closed in 2002. Recent Special Programs at Harwin Effective Behaviour Support Program (EBS) EBS is a positive, proactive approach to school wide discipline. It integrates behaviour support and academic programming. A major component of the program is the direct instruction of social skills as part of the classroom curriculum. The program was K id s D o n at e G r o ce r i e s t o S t. V i n ce n t d e Pa u l 2 0 0 2 initiated by Principal Bruce Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Ballantyne in the late 1990ʼs and is still in place. Students become “part of the pride” if they are respectful, cooperative, kind and safe. Harwin StrongStart Centre This program offers free, play based early learning experiences for pre school-age children attending with their parents or caregivers. Licensed early childhood educators lead activities at the centres which are designed to develop social, language and motor skills. In January 2009, Harwin joined Carney Hill, Spruceland, Peden Hill and Ron Brent schools to offer this ministry sponsored program. Harwin Elementary Did you Know? H I ARWIN SCHOOL GETS ITS NAME FROM ITS LOCATION BETWEEN HARPER AND IRWIN STREETS. N FEBRUARY 1960, HARWIN SCHOOL TOOK TWO BOWL- ING TEAM HONORS HOME WITH A 960 GAME AND A 2533 THREE GAME SERIES. A SHIELD FOR THE BEST CHORAL SPEECH HEARD DURING THE 1961 10TH ANNUAL DRAMA FESTIVAL WENT TO GRADE 1 STU- DENTS AT HARWIN SCHOOL. S INCE 2005, HARWIN HAS COMMITTED RE- SOURCES TO A FULL-TIME KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM AS PART OF THE DISTRICT INNER CITY PRIMARY PROJ- ECT. I N 2007, PRINCE GEORGE ACTIVATORS SOCIETY, A HALFWAY HOUSE FOR FED- ERAL PAROLEES, SUPPLIED A GIANT POT OF SOUP EVERY 3 WEEKS FOR THE LUNCH PROGRAM AT HAR- Pr i n ce Ge o rg e Co u ga rs R e ad t o St u de n t s 200 9 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen WIN. F OR SAFETY REASONS, OVER 500 BEETLE IN- FESTED PINE TREES WERE REMOVED FROM THE SCHOOL GROUNDS AT HARWIN. WHAT A WASTE OF EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES! Heather Park Middle 2000-2010 7151 Heather Park Road, Prince George “Empowering students for success” Mission Statement To prepare each student with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to meet current and future challenges in an academically-engaging, supportive and safe environment. Heather Park Middle School 2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History Building of the wood structure began in 1999 on Heather Park Road. The school was completed in August 2000. Heather Park Middle School opened in September 2000 as the first middle school in School District No. 57. Enrollment was over-capacity with 778 grade 6-8 students from the Hart area, including grade 6 and 7 French Immersion students. For three years enrollment remained high. Then there was a slow decline and in June 2010, Heather Park Middle School was closed and the building became a K-7 school. September 7, 2000 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Heather Park Middle The middle school was designed to meet the educational interests and needs of early adolescents. Students were organized into groups within the building. Each “pod” had approximately 4 classes. The 110-120 students shared four classroom teachers. In this pod system, Heather Park Middle School was like a group of smaller schools. One teacher provided instruction in the core subjects. All students had the opportunity to participate in Explorations such as arts, home economics, P.E., technology education and information technology. These classes allowed students to try out new ideas and new things, perhaps discovering new talents. ENROLLMENT YEAR 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 GRADE # 6-8 778 6-8 762 6-8 783 6-8 733 6-8 678 6-8 730 6-8 686 6-8 660 6-8 636 6-8 626 Grade 8 Div. 22 class photo 2003-2004 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Grade 7 Div. 43 class photo 2009-2010 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection PRINCIPALS Brian Pepper Lee Karpenko VICE PRINCIPALS Robin Dielissen Sherry Thibault Cindy Heitman Sid Jawanda Kelly Johansen Heather Park Middle FIRST STAFF Ames, Lillian Attree, Ingrid Baldridge, Tracey Barton, Betty Anne Beckett, Deb Bennett, Connie Brandes, Cathy Bryce, Laurie Close, Shelley Coltman, Meleeta Coupe, Paul Creak, Bonny Davison, Lisa DeBruin, Chris Dielissen, Robin Dyck, Kelsey Egglestone, Sharon Findlay, Alison Foulds, Bonnie-Jean Frohlich, Susan Furlan, Christina Gillis, Sophie Goodson, Trish Hall, Cliff Harris, Bonnie Hawley, Brenda Heitman, Cindy Hood, Deanna Jewell, Shelley Jones, Bonita Langen, Lori Laupitz, Catherine Lord, Nancy Maki, Wendy McGraw, Linda McWhinnie, Donna Missellbrook, Phil Mocilac, Nev Monkley, Roberta Morgan, Linda Moulder, Kristine Niven, Lorna Nolan, John Olexyn, Jason Pepper, Brian Perrin, Joann Pillipow, Rennae Pineault, Richard Pratt, Heather Reid, Dave Roy, Gordon Sargeant, Philadel Sawatsky, Kathy Schreiner, Bev Shipley, Michelle Smith, Anne Stauble, Laura Strasdin, Debbie Tandy, Heather Thibault, Sherry Trifunovich-Allen, Nadine Wall, Eileen Weisgarber, Maria Wenkoff, Debbie Wilson, Bonnie Wright, Val Staff 2000-2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Staff 2008-2009 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Heather Park Middle SPORTS There were numerous opportunities for students to participate in sports activities. These included basketball, volleyball, track and field, badminton and rugby. The school’s teams were called the Heather Park Highlanders. Badminton Team 2001-2002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The students also had opportunities to participate in special events such as Skate for Literacy, the Terry Fox Run, relays at Massey/Masich Place, grade 8 ski trips, mountain bike racing, and curling. Basketball game 2003 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Curling 2004 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Heather Park Middle ACTIVITIES ABORIGINAL AWARENESS WEEK During Aboriginal Awareness Week, students had the opportunity to participate in bannock making, storytelling, and traditional dances. Many guests from local aboriginal communities volunteered their time to work with students in decreasing racism and creating pride amongst aboriginal students. By listening to some tales, legends and experiences of storytellers, students experienced some aboriginal culture. Some of the presenters were dressed in full regalia and had various items on display. Rainbow Dancers January 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection LEADERSHIP TEAMS Leadership Teams were an important part of the middle school environment. They fostered a sense of belonging and group connectedness. If students wished to join, they needed to apply for the team. Some of the 17 leadership teams included Athletic Squad, Anti-Bullying, Video, Recycling, Special Events Team, Peer Tutors and Environmental Team. These teams were important for building self-esteem and developing skills in decision making. Pod Blasts foster school spirit Fall 2003 Special Events Team 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Heather Park Middle February & March 2001 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen FINE ARTS In April 2003, Heather Park Middle School drama students presented “Return of the Glass Slipper”. Over 1100 students, parents and community members attended the three matinee and two evening performances. This was a memorable event for Heather Park. In later years, other musical productions included “Wagon Wheels West”, “Rock, The History of Rock ‘n’ Roll” in 2004 and “Saturday Knight Fever” in 2006. At the Music Festival in spring 2002, the band won a silver medal. In 2003, they made tours to Heather Park’s elementary feeder schools. Heather Park Middle School Band plays at Fort George Park June 12, 2004 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Heather Park Middle Did You Know? H eather Park Middle School and Taichung Yu-Ying Junior High School established a Sister School Partnership in January 2003. The purpose was to develop activities that promote cultural awareness, language and education opportunities in both Canada and Taiwan, for students, teachers and administrators. S taff member Heather Tandy’s daughter, Megan, participated in the Winter Olympics in Vancouver in 2010. She represented Canada as a biathlete and was the top Canadian woman. She was also the first Canadian woman to ever qualify for an Olympic Pursuit. The Pursuit is a race that is based on your Sprint results and you have to finish in the top 60 in the Sprint to qualify for the Pursuit. Megan finished in the top 40 in the Sprint and also achieved a top 40 result in the Pursuit. Just prior to the 2010 Olympics, Heather Park had a red and white day and students signed giant Pacific Sport banners that Mrs. Tandy took down to Vancouver and used them to cheer Megan on. I n 2001, student Amanda Ribeiro, along with her partner Jeff Dinelle, won the gold medal in the juvenile pairs division at the Bank of Montreal Canadian Junior Figure Skating Championship in Kitchener, Ontario. She was representing Prince George’s Spruce City Figure Skating Club and this honour was the first in the club’s history. The pair returned to the 2002 Junior National in St. John’s, Newfoundland in the pre-novice category. Amanda Ribeiro & Jeff Dinelle January 14, 2001 Courtesy of the Prince George Free Press S H Megan Tandy February 10, 2006 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen tudent Katie Van Buuren and her partner Jason Goldsmith earned 5th place in the novice category at the 2001 Canadian Junior Figure Skating Championship. eather Park’s first principal, Brian Pepper, went on to become the superintendent of SD#57 (Prince George) from 2006-2015. Heather Park Middle G rade 7 and 8 students Brock Harpur, Sam Wesenberg, Devan Franz, Anne McGladdery, Sarra McMillan, Trina Pugh and Barbara Thompson qualified to attend the 2001 Provincial Debating Championship where their various teams placed between 12th and 18th. Mrs. Tandy and Mme Lord were the coaches. S I tudent Michael Duck, a Caledonia Nordic Ski Club member, won the overall BC Cup series title for 13 and 14 -year old boys in 2001. n December 2001, student Brittany Dumoulin played Charlie Bucket in Price George Theatre Workshop’s production of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”. Brittany Dumoulin & David Quast as Willy Wonka December 9, 2001 Courtesy of the Prince George Free Press S I tudent Dustin Lyne won a gold medal in his weight class at the Vancouver Island Judo Tournament in Victoria in 2002. n May 2001, about 180 grade 6 and 7 students built self-sustaining habitats in the school’s gymnasium with help from people at Vancouver’s HR MacMillan Space Centre. HR MacMillan Space Centre, Marsville, at Heather Park May 13, 2001 Courstesy of the Prince George Free Press Heather Park Middle Memories Being on the first staff of Heather Park certainly was interesting. Because we had to create a completely new library, Maria Weisgarber and I had to spend many days at the District Resource Centre (now the District Learning Commons) checking curriculum, making selections and being overwhelmed with how much we had to order at one go. The very first day at the DRC we just ordered and ordered and ordered until we thought we had overdone it. We had the office tally up all that we had done and discovered that we had spent a “whopping $5000” and only had $75,000 left to go - we couldn’t believe it. We had a good laugh as we had laboured over whether or not we should buy a book on the bog people found in Europe. We were so concerned our budget couldn’t handle it. In the end “bog” was our password on our library computer as it brought back so many fond memories of those days at the DRC. When all those books arrived in the library it was pure delight to see all the great materials we had bought. Another outstanding memory was the collaboration between Maria, the computer teacher, Brenda Hawley, and myself, and all the staff. We called our planning sessions for the classes the “full meal deal” because we would all be there to make sure it was a positive experience for everyone, especially all the students. If I could have chosen how to end my career I would have definitely chosen to end it at Heather Park. Working in that library with those ladies and that staff was the ideal library setup that we all read about in our library education classes. It was wonderful!! We were called the “dream team”. Bonny Creak 2016, retired teacher Bonny Creak & Maria Weisgarber in library 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Heather Park Middle Bonny Creak and I were the two teacher-librarians hired to work at Heather Park Middle School when it opened in 2000. We toured the library site while it was under construction and, amid the dust and building debris, we tried to visualize the layout of the room and make a plan for shelving and furniture. When we looked at the building blueprints, we noticed that there was no sink in the library office. We asked about having one put in but were told it wasn’t going to happen. We were given $80,000 to buy books, which seemed like a lot, but when the books arrived there were still many empty shelves. In the early years we relied heavily on the student book collection at the District Resource Centre (now the District Learning Commons) to boost our collection in key areas when classes did projects and research. When the DRC eliminated their student book collection, many of those resources came to the middle school because we were using them so heavily. Bonny and I also offered unit introductions such as “Survivor” and “Mysteries”, coordinated Letters from the Front for Remembrance Day and had special holiday programs like a Spooky Storytime for Halloween and Reindeer Games for Christmas. The two holiday programs have become Heather Park traditions and continue on at the elementary school. We had such fun! Maria Weisgarber 2016, teacher-librarian What I remember about Heather Park Middle School is that it was both the most challenging and the most fun ten years of my career. It was great to be in on early discussions of contentious issues such as whether or not teachers could take coffee mugs into class and whether students could chew gum. Coming in on weekends and signing up for a time slot to use the photocopy machine because we didn’t have textbooks or having to send students to the library to sharpen pencils were just some of the challenges of being part of a new school start up. Though I worked harder than ever, I also had the most fun ever. Nowhere else would you come in from recess to find the principal, Brian Pepper, in a clown costume lying on the table at the front of the classroom. The vice principal, Sherry Thibault, appeared shortly after with hot chocolate and cookies. While expectations of teachers were high, appreciation was also just as high, making Heather Park Middle School a wonderful place to spend my last 10 years as a teacher. Philadel Sargeant 2016, retired teacher When the school opened in September 2010, there were no usable blackboards. Also, there were no photocopiers and no overhead projectors. So, for the first two weeks of school, everything had to be done verbally. Heather Tandy 2016, teacher Heritage Elementary 257 Anderson Street, Prince George 1976 to Present Mission Statement To promote knowledge, physical development and positive attitudes so that students will develop into life long learners. Heritage Elementary 2002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History Heritage Elementary opened as a K-7 school on June 9, 1977 after being on shift since September 1976 with Highglen Elementary. There were eleven classrooms, a library, a gymnasium, two seminar rooms, a multipurpose room, a kiln room and a concession. By 1990, there were also four portables and, in 1994, a six-room addition was completed. In 2003, students from Meadow Elementary and Highland Elementary amalgamated with Heritage when those schools closed. At the same time, those students not enrolled in the Montessori program at Highglen Elementary were also moved to Heritage. The student population at Heritage increased from 259 to 418. The school shares grounds with D.P. Todd Secondary. There is also Moran Park, a city park, at the back of Heritage Elementary that is used as an extension of the school’s playground. Heritage Elementary enrollment y ear grade # 1976 K-7 253 1977 K-7 300 1979 K-7 356 1984 K-7 411 1989 K-7 384 1994 K-7 357 1999 K-7 306 2002 K-7 259 2007 K-7 426 2012 K-7 412 Larry Mikulasik’s Class 1977-1978 Courtesy of Larry Mikulasik, retired teacher Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Early Staff Barb Osten Lori Rush Cheryl (Baylis) Sparks Brian Shields Tony Cue Susan Svendson Larry Mikulasik Jennifer Johnson Dolores Birnie Jan Saltman Vivian King Staff 1977-1978 Don Basserman, principal Courtesy of Larry Mikulasik, retired teacher Principals Don Basserman Bryan Kineshanko John Suderman John Turner Geoff Eacott Rob Griffiths Clint Buhr Carol Brain Chris Dugdale Anne Smith Vice Principals Bryan Kineshanko Barb Osten Bob Strain Jack Morrison Diane Kikkert Val Coopersmith Al Olson Carol Brain Leigh Erwin (shared) Karin Paterson Kathy Sawatsky Kevin Baldridge Norm Kidwell Linda McGraw Heritage Elementary Sports In 1995, 75 Heritage students raised $2036.19 for the Heart and Stroke Foundation at their second annual Jump Rope for Heart Skip-a-Thon. In 2011, on the 29th anniversary of the Jump Rope for Heart event having taken place in Canadian schools, Heritage raised $6967.22. In 2000, 27 students raised $1626.88 for the Heart and Stroke Foundation during their Hoops for Heart event. In 2002, the school’s Hoops for Heart event raised $1458. Hoops for Hearts 2002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Heritage Elementary T-Shirts SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Heritage Elementary regularly participated in cross-country running events at locations such as Peden Hill, Southridge, Fort George Park and Rainbow Park. Students also attended the district relays at Massey/Masich Stadium. Throughout the years, the school has had both girls’ and boys’ volleyball and basketball teams. Boys’ Relay Team 1994-1995 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Heritage Elementary Did You Know? D on Basserman, the first principal at Heritage, later became the Professional Development Coordinator for School District 57 and also a Prince George city councillor. John McLay, a teacher at Heritage, later became one of the school district’s assistant superintendents. F or a number of years, Sharon Egglestone and Jill Zielke directed two choirs and they performed at various events such as the Remembrance Day assembly, Christmas concerts, the Spring Talent Show and School District #57’s Singfest. Christmas Concert Program 1990’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I n1995, the school presented the operetta Jungle Book. Jill Zielke, Sharon Egglestone and Marg Wilson were the driving forces behind its success. Parents met at the school to sew the many animal costumes required. Other musicals included Treasure Island and Monster Madness that had Dracula, Happy Medium, Vampira, Wolfman, Igor and Dr. Frankenstein as its main characters. Jungle Book Operetta 1995 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Heritage Elementary F or a number of years, Heritage held a talent show. In 1995, Ashley Paige performed a ballet sequence from The Nutcracker. As well, two girls performed “mind reading” on volunteers from the audience. In 1997, eighteen students performed on the ukulele, piano, clarinet or recorder while others danced or sang. One year, teacher Larry Mikulasik’s clothes were featured. He was seated in the gym watching the show when the master of ceremonies announced that there was going to be a special modeling display. Up came four of Mr. Mikulasik’s students wearing his clothes. The students had asked his wife for the clothes the day before and she had pled ignorance that morning when he asked where his favourite pants and shirt were. I n 1994/95, Heritage Elementary participated in a fund-raising campaign called Dimes for Disaster. The school raised $970 for the people of Kobe, Japan where there had been an earthquake. The school received a certificate of appreciation from the Red Cross. H eritage Elementary produced its first yearbook in 1994/95. Helen Kowalenko was the teacher sponsor and a poem was written in her honour. Poem Dedicated to Mrs. Kowalenko 1995 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I n 1996, 16 students calling themselves the Terrific Trimmers raised $3561.61 for Camp Goodtimes by clipping UPC symbols off of Dairyland labels. Camp Goodtimes was run by the Canadian Cancer Society as a recreation area for cancer patients and their families. Terrific Trimmers with UPC Symbols 1996 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Heritage Elementary K ids’ Council was organized for many years by teacher Marg Wilson and supported by many other staff members. The council consisted of members from each classroom who brought forward topics that then provided opportunities for developing student leadership skills. The council organized school events such as dances and other fundraisers, supported organizations like the World Wildlife Federation, sponsored foster children and awarded bursaries to former students. Bursary Recipients 1996-2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Heritage Kids’ Council 1995-1996 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Foster Child Gharib & his Mother 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Acknowledgement from WWF 1996 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection O ne foster child was Gharib Saber Gharib from Cairo, Egypt and the school sponsored him from 1991 until he turned 16 in 2002. The school received photos and short letters from Gharib each year. In 2003, the school began sponsoring another foster child, Maria-Abigail Nuezca, a four-year-old girl living in the Phillipines. Heritage Elementary A T school song was written in 1996 that was sung to the tune of This Land is Your Land. he school regularly participated in the school district’s Science Fair. In April 2000, Eric Saunders was selected to participate with his project, entitled Hot Paws, where he had studied the warmth of various gloves and mittens. Heritage Elementary School Song 1996 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Hot Paws Science Fair Project 2000 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen April 4, 2000 F or a number of years, Heritage Elementary students collected Campbell Soup labels and sent them to Olivia O’Brien’s Foundation of Hope. Olivia was born with cerebral palsy and the labels were used to purchase computer programs and other teaching tools for her. Heritage Students with Olivia O’Brien 2002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Heritage Elementary O n Monday, November 18, 1996, Diane Rodney’s class had a surprise birthday party for her. Four students, Jenny Sharp, Gillian Knox, Aleesha Gillette and Samantha Katzberg spent a month planning it. Originally Jenny had difficulty getting each student to contribute one dollar. They laughed and said that they thought she was trying to steal their money. However, after she talked to them during their music class with a different teacher, it became much easier to collect the money. Once they had the money, the four organizers went scouting for ideas. The class voted on the different suggestions and then the organizers did the shopping. Mrs. Sharp, Jenny’s mother, did all the driving, baked two horse cakes and also made a monetary donation. Mrs. Gillette arranged to let the organizers into the school on the night before the party in order to put up the decorations in the multipurpose room. The party was a success and Miss Rodney was definitely surprised. Diane Rodney & her Horses SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Poem for Diane Rodney 1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Div. 9 Poems 1995 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Memories Heritage Elementary My first year at Heritage Elementary, in 1976-77, was a year of being on shift with Highglen Elementary. Highglen students started at 8:00 and were finished by 12:30. We started at 1:00 and, with a short break, were done by 5:30. We were on shift until mid-June when we marched to our new school. In September 1997 our brand new school was immediately overcrowded. My principal asked me if I would be willing to go on a separate schedule with my students. This meant that I would share a large classroom with another class but I would start at 11:00. We would be in the classroom from 11:00 to 1:00. The other class had activities in the library and would have lunch. At 1:00 we would go into the library, where I would give two lessons and then it was time for lunch. At 3:00, I would be back in the main classroom. This went on for about three weeks until a portable showed up. Over the next fifteen years I spent at least ten years in portables. Many teachers have their favourite school clothes. You don’t realize how many years you have worn your favourite clothes until you look back at the class photos and there is the same sweater that you have worn five of the last ten years. On my fiftieth birthday, I was presented with sweaters. My fellow staff members had gone to Value Village and got sweaters for me. Some of them were really good so then I started wearing them to school. Larry Mikulasik Outside Portable Crazy Hair Day January 1992 Courtesy of Larry Mikulasik, retired teacher P.G. Wheelchair Basketball Team Larry Mikulasik in Sweater 1995 Courtesy of Larry Mikulasik, retired teacher Each school has its traditions and at Heritage we established two. One was the Paper Bag Awards that were based on something a staff member did that was a mistake, an accident, or because of a person’s idiosyncrasy. For example, there was a staff member who would peel off his crusts and Heritage Elementary throw them into the garbage can. In his paper bag he received bread crusts. There was a teacher that split her pants on the first day of school and had to go home. This individual got a needle and thread. One year I received an empty birthday cake box because I had jumped on a box that still had a birthday cake in it. It had been right beside the garbage can so how was I supposed to know? One day a teacher forgot about her boiling eggs in the kitchen. The eggs exploded and there were eggshells throughout the kitchen. I was picking up the shells and putting them into a paper bag within minutes. This tradition died after a staff member complained that we were making fun of him but I always believed that we made fun of the incident but not the individual. The second tradition, that still continues, was the staff Christmas dinner that we held at the school on the last Wednesday before Christmas. I would usually do the turkey because I lived close by and could check on it during the noon hour. Every single dinner we had was amazing and every year I would eat too much. Leftovers were kept at school and they were our lunch for the next two days. After dinner we had a gift exchange. Even this simple tradition would sometimes go awry. One year we had a new staff member and he thought that the gift exchange meant that you were to bring a gag gift. When his gift was chosen he stopped the individual and said, “That is mine but I don’t want anyone to take it.” We were all curious and we had him open it. We broke into peals of laughter. He had bought body paints. We laughed even louder when a female staff member jumped up and grabbed them. Heritage was a great school and that is why I was there for thirty years. Larry Mikulasik 2013, retired teacher I have many fond memories of the “above and beyond” efforts that both teachers and students would willingly make to assist in the many musical performances we attempted at Heritage. One of my fondest, but most embarrassing, moments was when we were working on a “Pirate” musical and the opening number included pirates seated in a sea shanty pub singing their pirate song while drinking their favourite beverage. I wanted it to look as authentic as possible so I brought in empty beer and wine bottles for them to hold, swing in the air and pound on the tables at appropriate times. After several practices, Marg Wilson, grade 7 teacher, quietly approached me to ask if I was worried about the use of alcoholic containers in an elementary school environment. In all my enthusiasm I had forgotten to reflect on how this would look to the parent audience. Marg was willing to go to A & W to borrow their glass mugs to use as realistic imitations of the intended props. Thank heavens Marg was “on her game” and stopped me from making a very serious mistake! Jill Zielke 2013, teacher Highglen Elementary - Montessori School 290 Voyageur Drive, Prince George 1970 to Pr esent “Let Our Light Shine, Both Staff and Students!” MISSION STATEMENT At Highglen Montessori we will: • Empower students, families and staff. • Follow the core principles of a Montessori philosophy. • Harmonize the best of what the Montessori and B.C. Public Schools' curriculum have to offer. • Create a school culture where everyone feels connected, cared for, respected, safe and happy. • Ensure that students and staff will be successful within the broader educational community. • Help students and staff to be self-directed, self-monitoring risk takers. Hi g hgl en M ont ess ori 2012 Courtesy of Dave Leman, parent HISTORY In 1970, the school was built as a square concrete block building. It was an open-area structure built to facilitate the flexible team-teaching movement of the late 1960's. It was a building with no hallways or walls separating the teaching areas and the library area. Moveable "walls" were provided by portable blackboards with tack board display areas on the back. The library was in the central area, surrounded by teaching areas which were furnished with student desks and removable tubs to facilitate the movement of students to different areas. Two seminar rooms were provided, one for the provision of a more secluded area for small groups and the other for the learning assistance teacher. Highglen Elementary - Montessori School A gymnasium was added in 1972, complete with equipment storage and showers. In 1975, the expanding enrollment prompted another 687 sq.m. addition. This addition resulted in two-class "pods" i.e. teaching areas. Each group of four teaching areas, now with partial walls, was provided with an uncarpeted "wet area", sinks and storage space as well as outdoor access. The addition also included two completely closed rooms, with hallways on both sides; one was soundproofed for music and the other had a lino floor for art, but both were called into service as regular classrooms. Team Tea ching P la nning Sess ion 19 73 In 1976-1977, the school was on shift with Heritage Elementary School while their building was under construction. The two seminar rooms were joined to make room for a Heritage kindergarten class. In 19781979, Highglen hosted two classes from Meadow Elementary School. In the late 1970's and early 1980's, teacher and student needs for more well-defined space gave rise to minor renovations for more partial walls, then complete walls, and finally... doors. The library was left open to maximize the space and to facilitate ease of access. In 1985, the shrinking neighbourhood school population offered physical space for the establishment of a "Choice School", turning Highglen into a dual-track school with a Montessori component. The Montessori Alternative Program in Prince George originated as a small private kindergarten established by Vickie Williams. The original Montessori component at Highglen was a primary program of 56 students with an essential "grass roots" parent support group. SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The neighbourhood student numbers continued to decline while the Montessori program expanded until, in 2004, the school became a totally Montessori school, dedicated to the Montessori philosophy and program. At this time, two Montessori classes that had been housed at Seymour Elementary were also relocated to Highglen. Most of the neighbourhood students moved from Highglen to attend Heritage Elementary. Open A rea Lib ra ry 199 8 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Highglen Elementary - Montessori School N E I G H B O U RH O O D ENROLLMENT YEAR 1970 1975 1980 1985 1986 1987 1988 1990 1995 2000 2003 GRADES # 1-7 203 K-7 418 K-7 308 K-3 56 K-7 198 K-7 195 K-7 182 K-7 179 K-7 187 K-7 105 K-7 85 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) MONTESSORI ENROLLMENT YEAR 1985 1986 1987 1988 1990 1995 2000 2003 2004 2005 2004 2005 GRADES # K-7 56 K-4 83 K-5 104 K-7 125 K-7 181 K-7 181 K-7 155 K-7 238 K-7 273 K-7 270 K-7 247 K-7 250 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Hi g hgl en E lem ent ar y Ki nd erg ar t en Cl as s 1 992 Ma rg ar e t (M ag g i e ) Sp i c e r, t e a ch e r SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Not i ce Ma y 198 5 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Highglen Elementary - Montessori School S TA FF PRINCI PA L S Alice Box Bet Siddall Bill Mains Don Reimer Phil Jensen Rob Griffiths Kerry Bergeron Rick Urquhart Tom Paterson Karin Paterson VIC E P R I N C I PA L S Art Brown Lynn Boomhower Teresa Saunders Kerry Bergeron John Mackie Rick Urquhart (zone VP) Kirk Czechmeister (zone VP) F I R S T S TA F F Dick Rosebrough Rick Byron Wendy Dawson Anne Brown Marilyn Burkitt Christine Grieve El Carr Heather Hudson Alice Box (principal) Hi g hgl en St a ff 197 4 Courtesy of Wilma Hartnagel, retired teacher M o n t e ss o ri S ta f f 20 11 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Highglen Elementary - Montessori School ACTIVITIES Non-competitive sports are part of the Montessori philosophy. Participation in charitable fund-raising events, such as The Terry Fox Run, and cross-country running at Rainbow Park are encouraged. Hi g hgl en C hoi r 1 985 Lo go 1970 ’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen W a ll M u ra l P a i n ti n g 1 980’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection R e ad i n g B u dd ie s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection PRIMARY/INTERMEDIATE DANCES & FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT Next Wednesday, May 23rd, Good Vibrations DJ Service will be at our school to help our Leadership group with dances during the day (primary: 11:45 - 12:25 and intermediate: 12:30 - 1:25). Admission will be a donation for the SPCA (dog/cat food, treats, toys, coins). In the evening on the same day, Good Vibrations will have their big screen and theatre sound for a Family Movie Night beginning at 6:30 pm with doors opening at 6:15 pm. Admission will be $10 per family with proceeds going to our Uganda Water Well project and Foster Child, Karina. Students must be accompanied by a parent to attend. Families may bring blankets, pillows and come in their pj's. A concession selling popcorn and bottled water will be available. Watch for a flyer coming home on Friday with a return form so we will know how many families might attend and purchase popcorn/water. May 2012 Courtesy of Highglen School Website Highglen Elementary - Montessori School School Revue 2 001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Sing Al ong Night 20 00 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection R i cha rd T hom pson, st or yt el l er 19 88 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection St ude n t Mov i e M ake r 19 73 Yel low Bric k R oa db lo ck 198 0’s Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Highglen Elementary - Montessori School Did you Know? R OSE THOMAS, A CARRIER LANGUAGE TEACHING ASSISTANT, VISITED HIGHGLEN IN 2000, SHARING NATIVE SONGS, WORDS, AND CHANTS WITH THE STUDENTS, AS WELL AS MAKING DREAM CATCHERS, POUCHES AND BEAD NECKLACES. M W ISS COUSINS' AND MRS. ROWE'S STUDENTS HATCHED MONARCH BUTTERFLIES WHICH THEY RELEASED INTO RAINBOW PARK IN JUNE 2000. HEN HIGHGLEN WAS BUILT, THERE WERE NO FUNDS FOR A SIGN IDENTIFYING THE SCHOOL AND IT TOOK EIGHT YEARS TO FINALLY GET ONE. IN MAY 1979, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT OVERTURES HAD BEEN MADE TO SELL THE SCHOOL TO THE ROMAN CATHOLIC EPISCOPAL CORPORATION, AS SCHOOL POPULATIONS IN THE BOWL AREA WERE FALLING. A GROUP OF PARENTS IN THE AREA BE- CAME INCENSED AT THE PROSPECTIVE LOSS AND, AT THEIR OWN COST, ORDERED THE PAINTING OF A SIGN WITH THE SCHOOL NAME. THEY CAME WITH THE SIGN AND A LADDER, IN THE DEAD OF NIGHT, AND MOUNTED IT ON THE SCHOOL. SUBSEQUENTLY, THE OFFER TO BUY THE SCHOOL WAS REJECTED, MUCH TO EVERYONE'S RELIEF. S chool Sig n 19 79 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection A NUMBER OF MONTESSORI CLASSES HAVE DEVELOPED ONGOING RELATIONSHIPS WITH SENIORS IN LONG TERM CARE FACILITIES SUCH AS SIMON FRASER LODGE. AS STUDENTS ARE IN THE SAME CLASS FOR THREE YEARS, THEY VISIT WITH THEIR "BUDDIES" OVER A LONG PERIOD OF TIME. Si m on Fr as e r L od g e Budd y Pr og ra m 1 998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Highglen Elementary - Montessori School H IGHGLEN WAS THE ONLY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN PRINCE GEORGE THAT APPLIED TO SO- LARBC IN 2011, AND WAS SELECTED TO HAVE SOLAR PANELS INSTALLED TO SUPPLEMENT ELECTRICAL NEEDS. A TOTAL OF 51 APPLICATIONS WERE RECEIVED WITH AMAZING IDEAS AND LOTS OF EXAMPLES OF GREEN PROJECTS IN SCHOOLS. AN EVALUATION COMMITTEE, WITH REP- RESENTATIVES FROM THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, MINISTRY OF ENERGY, MINES AND PETROLEUM RESOURCES AND SOLARBC, SELECTED THE SCHOOLS AND EACH SCHOOL RECEIVED $20,000 TOWARD A PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM. M ONTESSORI STUDENTS USE A WIDE VARIETY OF COSTLY SELF-COR- RECTING, MULTI-SENSORY, HANDS-ON MATERIALS FOR INDIVIDUAL WORK, SUCH AS GEOMETRIC SHAPES, PUZZLE MAPS AND BOTANY CARDS. THE So la r K ids 201 1 Courtesy of Dave Leman, parent MONTESSORI EDUCATION SOCIETY, A REGISTERED PRINCE GEORGE CHARITY, IS ESSENTIAL FOR RAISING EXTRA FUNDS FOR THESE MATERIALS, AS WELL AS FUNDING CONTINUING EDUCATION FOR THE TEACHERS. FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS, A SMALL GROUP OF AIM-HI VOLUNTEERS WORKED IN THE LIBRARY STRINGING TOGETHER THE "GOLDEN BEADS" USED AS A FOUNDATION FOR NUMBER SYSTEM CONCEPTS. ALTHOUGH HIGHGLEN IS A PUBLIC CHOICE SCHOOL, PARENTAL SUPPORT IS ES- SENTIAL FOR BOTH FUNDRAISING AND TRANSPORTATION. O NE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MONTESSORI AND TRADITIONAL SCHOOLS IS THE AB- SENCE OF BELLS, AS THEY BELIEVE IT INTERRUPTS THE CONCENTRATION OF STUDENTS IMMERSED IN THEIR WORK. ANOTHER IMPORTANT DIFFERENCE IS THE CREATION OF MULTI-AGED CLASSES THAT HAVE THE SAME TEACHER OVER A THREE YEAR PERIOD. U sing M athem atic s Ma n i p ul at i ve s 200 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection EACH YEAR, 1/3 OF THE CHILDREN MOVE ON IN THIS WAY, THE YOUNGER CHILDREN ARE MENTORED BY THE OLDER CHILDREN IN THE CLASS. THE ROLE OF THE TEACHER IS AS A FACILITATOR RATHER THAN AN INSTRUCTOR. STUDENTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO BE SELFDIRECTED AND BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN LEARNING. AND 1/3 NEW STUDENTS COME INTO THE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT. Highglen Elementary - Montessori School Memories I was the first teacher-librarian, hired in May 1970 before the staff was chosen. The district sent me down to Vancouver to buy books and I worked under Helen King at Highland Elementary to do my cataloguing. The library was in a portable while the school was being built and my office was the washroom. I was very surprised to find that the principal of the school was a woman, Alice Box, and I shared the grade four class with her. Alice was busy ordering supplies, even book shelves, for this new style open area school. The library was to be in the middle, the shelves being the "walls", with school offices set just "outside" the "bottom" of the circle. I remember a long discussion regarding female teachers wearing pants to school for comfort on supervision in cold weather. The outcome was that pants were okay if they were part of a formal pantsuit. Hi g hgl en Li b ra ry 19 70’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Anne (Brown) Lyle 2012, retired teacher I was team teaching with Rick Byron on the first staff of Highglen and was really committed to using the outdoors for science, collecting and identifying specimens. We used the woods that completely surrounded the new school as an extended classroom; we had the students trying to build bird nests and live-trapping squirrels for observation, being careful not to harm them and releasing them again into the woods. This led to a trauma for the students when workers came to cut down the trees. "Our squirrels live in those trees!" In better weather, we took other subjects outdoors as the close quarters inside the school sometimes had an extremely high noise level. We also incorporated hiking and snowshoeing into our environmental program. Dick Rosebrough 2012, retired teacher Highglen Elementary - Montessori School I came on staff in 1973 when the first kindergarten was started. It was housed in a portable after the school was built. I also made full use of the outdoors and the community with a field trip once a week. We made trips to Rainbow Park, 5th and Ospika Fire Hall, a hairdresser, Gurugobind Singh Temple, and Shoppers Food Mart to shop for "healthy snacks" for the class. The parents were very involved, with an open door policy in the kindergarten room and were extremely valuable on the field trips. Some of them even brought small groups into their homes for cooking experiences and some gave the children space in their garden to plant seeds and observe them growing. K i n de r g ar te n T ri p 19 70’ s Courtesy of Wilma Hartnagel, retired teacher There was originally a skating rink on the grounds and, through donations, the school was able to provide skates for every child for a weekly session. In later years, when a schoolyard rink was no longer provided, we went to the Kin Centre. Ch r is t ma s Co n c e rt 1 9 7 0 ’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The kindergarten children were always the hit of the Christmas concerts as they enacted the Nativity story. I wrote a new script every year and always included a real baby (often a sibling of one of the students). One of the parents built a special manger to hold the infant and it was used for many years. Wilma Hartnagel 2012, retired teacher Highglen Elementary - Montessori School The year was 1972. I arrived at the school to find a very open structure, very few walls at all. It was a bit of a shock, actually. The teachers tried to define their space by using shelves, mostly, or other structures that would serve like a wall. We were all in visible contact with one another: no hiding behind closed doors here! At that time there was no gymnasium, so each class took turns using the “open space”, which in most schools would constitute a hallway, to conduct some type of gym class. It was amazing how quiet these gym classes were. And, of course, many physical education classes were held outside when the weather was good. I also remember using this “open space” for creative drama, small student presentations and concerts for parents. I taught at Highglen from 1972-1976 and during that time there were several structural changes to the building. A gymnasium was built, much to the delight of all: staff, students and parents alike. Half walls were built where a normal hallway would be and counters and sinks were installed on the “hallway” side, which greatly enhanced art and science projects. This space was shared by four classes. It still had a very open feeling and visibility to all teaching areas was clear and unobstructed. Small alcoves were erected in each teaching space which helped with small group instruction. Right from the beginning our school used USSR (Uninterrupted, Sustained, Silent, Reading). USSR occurred each and every day right after the lunch break. It was a quiet, enjoyable time where everyone found something enjoyable to read and read to their hearts’ content. Many good reading habits were formed during that time. In 1973, I remember having a fantastic student teacher from the Simon Fraser University Program. Near the end of her time with me, she was basically in control of the class. Alice Box took on supervising my student while I attended a self-directed professional development program where I visited a number of open-area schools in the Vancouver area. It was a very exciting time to learn about team teaching, how to improve my skills and make better use of our open space. At the end of that year, I was very inspired to try some new techniques. Lorraine Burns 2012, retired teacher Juni or St or yt el ler 19 73 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Highglen Elementary - Montessori School I came to Highglen from the open-area wing of McLeod Elementary in Vanderhoof, initially as an intermediate teacher and later as teacher-librarian from 1976 to 1997. I remember the gradual closing in of the teaching spaces but resisted the suggestion that the library needed walls. I found the easy access to the library to be a positive influence on children's attitudes...no need to worry about interrupting classes, as they could still come in to work independently. The "hallway" down both sides enlarged the available space for display and access to shelves so the library could truly be the "heart of the school". Originally, the learning assistance component was very strong, with specialist teachers and many resources for the children having difficulties. Then gradually the space was reduced to small rooms and a great deal of pressure was put on classroom teachers to meet those students’ needs, with educational plans prepared by the learning assistance teachers. The coming of computers was an exciting development both for the students and the teachers, with Don Reimer and Rob Griffiths leading the "apple" brigade. The original computers for student use were Apple because of the greater availability of programs. Computers required a lot of supervision and troubleshooting on the part of the teachers. The seminar room was put into service for this purpose... computers were not nearly so "user friendly" in the early days and some teachers were overwhelmed by them. The dual-track development required quite a lot of diplomacy by the administration because the Montessori approach didn't support competition and the character of sporting activities took on a more cooperative manner. The subject of Christmas concerts also caused some dissension as some felt practice for these interfered with the established learning atmosphere. Mura l s 20 01 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection We had a number of frequent visitors such as Barb Dean, from the Public Library, Richard Thompson, storyteller, and Jan Gray, who came in over the years to offer art enrichment for small groups. Jan had a small group create a giant white bear, made with wire mesh and a supply of defective medical cast material, that stood by the front office for years... often sporting special clothing for the holidays. When it was finally time for it to go, they had to dismantle it as it was too big and too heavy to carry out the door. Also, the school’s concrete walls have offered an ever-changing canvas for student art over the years. Clare Willis 2012, retired teacher Hixon - Canyon Creek Elementary 378 Lockyer Road, Hixon LOCATION 1922 to Pr esent Hixon is an unincorporated community in the Fraser Fort George Regional District on the east bank of the Fraser River on Highway 97, midway between Prince George and Quesnel. It was named after a 19th century gold prospector, Joseph Foster Hixon. Hi xon Ele ment a ry 20 11 School Website 2012 HISTORY The original Canyon Creek Elementary School was a log building, which opened in 1922 on land donated by Mr. and Mrs. Colgrove. The first teacher was Mr. Alexander Greig. This building was later purchased by a member of the community and in 1999 was moved to the left side of the highway where it still stands today. The log building was used until two portables and a teacherage replaced it in 1955. These buildings were situated at the north end of the present school property. In 1958, four classrooms and a gymnasium were built on the school site. In 1960, two additional classrooms were added, and two more classrooms were added the following year. The school was renamed Hixon Superior School when the enrollment was grades 1–10. It became Hixon Elementary when the enrollment was grades 1–7. The teacherage was finally torn down in the late 1980’s. Can yon Cr eek Sc hool 200 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Hixon - Canyon Creek Elementary ENROLLME N T YEAR 1945 1950 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 GRADES # 1-8 10 1-9 27 1-9 111 1-10 169 1-7 188 1-7 156 K-7 139 K-7 91 K-7 85 K-7 54 K-7 61 K-7 47 K-7 43 K-7 32 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) In 2011, the school enrolled only two classes and most students were bussed to the school. Fourth generation families are now attending the school. Ca ny on Cr eek Schoo l C la ss 19 38 The Exploration Place 2003.30.15 Hi xo n El e me n ta ry Sc h o o l G ra de 1 , 2 , 3 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Hixon - Canyon Creek Elementary PR I N C I PA LS 1965-2011 Lyle Fleming Colin Scott Jack Blair Clint Buhr Dave Friesen Lee Bleecker Janice Wharrie Art Brown Bruce Wiebe Chris Dugdale Carmen Eberle Deanna Hood Kathy Sawatsky Hixon Staff 1 997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection EA R LY S TA F F 1920’s - 1940’s Alexander Greig James E. Nimmo Ada Ashby Muriel Summers Miss S. P. Blain Mrs. Edith Hall Mrs. Vivian Kahldestad Mrs. Elna Cruise Mrs. B.L. Macmillan Miss Frances M. Steer Hi xo n S ta f f 20 11 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Hixon - Canyon Creek Elementary S P O RTS Many rural schools had to travel to other rural schools to take part in team sports. Teams were often billeted and many hours were spent riding busses. Sports days were often held in a central location and again involved bussing and careful planning. CINEMA SCHOOL WINS SPORTS EVENTS AT CANYON CREEK FRIDAY aking part were pupils from T Cinema, Abhou, Strathnaver and Canyon Creek, Div. 1 and 2. The day of sports got underway at 11 a.m. and almost 100 school children, 50 pre-school children and about 140 adults attended. The main events were high and broad jump, racing, relay race, novelty race and a softball game. In the scoring, Cinema came first with an average of nine points per pupil. Other results were Canyon Creek, Div. 1, 6.4 points; Canyon Creek, Div. 2, 5.6 points; Strathnaver, 2.9 points; and Abhou, fifth place. Canyon Creek won the softball game over a team made up of the other schools. For first place, Cinema was awarded the David MacLean Trophy, and for second place, Canyon Creek Div. l received the School District Cup. Keen competition, good sportsmanship and great interest were shown at all times. June 8, 1953 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Hixon Hawk s a t M cBr ide Tour nam ent 19 97 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Hixon & Woo dpec ker Sports Day 1 940’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Hixon - Canyon Creek Elementary C H R I S T M A S C O N C E RT P R O G R A M S Christmas concerts are the highlight of the year in most rural communities. Parents, teachers and students work very hard during the month of December to bring together a program of singing, drama and entertainment. CHILDREN DO WELL AT YULE CONCERTS hildren of Strathnaver, WoodC pecker and Canyon Creek schools entertained many friends and relatives at Christmas concerts last week. Their presentations were well received and the pupils received high praise as did their teachers, Miss L. Roddis of Strathnaver, Miss M. Collinson of Woodpecker and Mrs. M.M. Cook of Canyon Creek, and Miss K. Collins, Prince George helping teacher. Following the programs, Santa Claus appeared and distributed presents and candy to the children. The evenings were spent in playing games and dancing. December 27, 1945 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Hix on C hri Con stm cer as t Pr SD 5 o 7 Ed gr a ucatio m 1 nH eritag e Co 9 85 llectio n CHRISTMAS SOCIAL HELD AT SCHOOL More than one hundred children in the districts of Woodpecker and Hixon were assured of the merriest Christmas in their young and eager careers following a highly successful novelty dance, pie social and fish pond Saturday evening. The event, staged in Canyon Creek School, was well patronized and realized a net profit of $242.95 for the Christmas tree fund. December 17, 1951 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Hixon - Canyon Creek Elementary The Prince George Citizen had a “WOODPECKER-HIXON” column in the 1950’s, which reported on social events and school functions in the Hixon, Woodpecker, Strathnaver areas. As in most rural communities, the three schools hosted many social gatherings. The local Parent Teachers’ Associations were very active and were constantly raising funds to support student activities. Mrs. Velma Kennedy of Vancouver arrived on Monday at Canyon Creek to take over the duties of teacher at the new Canyon Creek School. School opened on Tuesday morning. Mrs. Kennedy is residing in the teacherage which was recently renovated by the School Board of District 57. November 1, 1951 At a meeting of Canyon Creek PTA on Friday, a committee had plans to hold a shoot and waffle dinner at the school on Sunday, Nov. 2, approved. Following the meeting, bridge was played when the ladies’ high was Mrs. Robertson and mens’ high J. P. Larsen. Mrs. E. Kennedy was the PTA delegate to the Prince George convention. October 30, 1952 Canyon Creek PTA met at Canyon Creek School on Friday when R. G. Williston was the guest speaker. It was decided to hold a pie social in the Canyon Creek School Saturday night to raise funds for the Christmas concert. A number of new members were welcomed. The next meeting is to be held on Dec. 14. December 6, 1951 Monthly meeting of Canyon Creek PTA was held at the new Canyon Creek school on Friday. One hundred dollars was voted the school board for final piano payments. Plans are under way for a school track meet and general community picnic June 21. June 12, 1952 Lac des Bois, École 2010 to Present 4131 Rainbow Drive, Prince George “Un pour tous, tous pour un” Lac des Bois 2017 Courtesy of Tiiu Noukas, retired teacher École Lac des Bois is a K-7 French Immersion school that opened its doors in September 2010 moving into the premises of the former Lakewood Junior Secondary School. Hence the school is very spacious and students enjoy the benefits of a new computer lab, a large well-equipped gym, an art and science room, a commodious and well-stocked library, and an outdoor track. There are many learning opportunities at Lac des Bois. Courtesy of SD 57 website History November 23, 2010 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen The year 2010 was one of great upheaval in SD 57. Ten schools closed. Some of the buildings were re-configured to a different grade population or to a charter status. Lakewood Junior Secondary closed but the building was converted to Lac des Bois, an elementary French Immersion school. It has been successful as the school population doubled within the first six years. Lac des Bois, École French Immersion The French Immersion program is designed for students whose first language is not French. Immersion refers to using French as a language of instruction and communication in the school setting. French Immersion is structured so that children learn both French and English skills, and follow the same curriculum as all students in the province of British Columbia. French Immersion students from Kindergarten to grade 3 receive all their instruction in the French language. In grades 4-7 students receive up to 80% of their educational program in French. For secondary grades, the students transfer to Duchess Park Secondary School. Courtesy of SD 57 website ENROLLMENT YEAR 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 GRADE # K-7 225 K-7 300 K-7 330 K-7 388 K-7 428 K-7 456 K-7 450 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) PRINCIPALS LES DIRECTRICES Madeleine Crandell Anne Smith EARLY STAFF LES PREMIERS PERSONNELS Yvon Allen Collette Beaulieu Sandra Butler Robert Doyon Marc Lacaille Tina LaPalme Corinne Larue-Madill Lisa Maloney Lynn MacNeil Luce Paré Normand Payette David Schulte Sylvie St. Pierre Elena Thomas Martine Thompson Cliff Waldie Lac des Bois, École Grade 6 students at Lac des Bois work on a drama exercise in class April 27, 2012 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Kathleen Hirtz knows how much being fully immersed in French helped pick up her high school grades from one year to the next. Six summer weeks in Quebec City, in which she heard and spoke nothing but Canada’s other official language, basically meant the difference between her passing and failing grade 12 French. Now, as a parent, Hirtz wants that French immersion opportunity available to her 11-year-old son Benjamin. Hirtz is among a group of parents who plan to take advantage of School District 57’s late French immersion choice program for grade 6 students, set to begin this fall at École Lac des Bois. “I really like the idea of my kids having a good solid base in English, and then if they’re showing promising academics, if they’re interested, they could go into French immersion,” Hirtz said. “I’ve always had French and I’ve used my French. I just find it very valuable to have a second language. “Ben was a little bit hesitant because he’d be leaving his friends, but he’d like to learn French and the school has a lot to offer. One of the things the late French immersion allows is you can find out if your child is going to struggle in school, and, if so, you wouldn’t put them in the program to begin with. But if your child excels, this is another opportunity they have.” … Parents are not required to speak French and there are no French prerequisites for the students. “I want to give the opportunity for students who did not do the early French immersion in kindergarten/grade 1 because their parents weren’t sure if that’s what they wanted for their children,” said École Lac des Bois principal Madeleine Crandell. “This is an opportunity, an enrichment for students to enter in grade 6. “You don’t have to be an A-student. The child needs to want to be in the program and wants the challenge of learning a new language, late immersion is for them. If they are thinking ahead of their careers, it does open up a lot of opportunities.” Ten-year-old Madeleine Logan’s parents, Bill and Pam, are both teachers who speak French and she wants to know what they’re saying about her when they’re trying to hide things from her at the dinner table. “I want to be bilingual and if I want to move to Ottawa or Montreal that would be a Lac des Bois, École good thing because I could understand people,” said Madeleine, an aspiring doctor. “I feel pretty good about it. I think I would catch on eventually. I have friends that live down the road from me who go to French immersion at École Lac des Bois and that’s where I would go. I’m hoping it will happen.” The family lived for 14 years in Valemount, which does not offer French immersion, and the chance of enrolling their daughter in late immersion was the primary reason they moved to Prince George this school year. Early immersion programs are already in place for at College Heights, Heather Park and École Lac des Bois elementary schools. Some English will be used in the late immersion classroom in the first two or three weeks, and after the first month or two, most grade 6 students will be studying all core subjects in French. By the end of their Grade 6 school year, students should be able to freely converse in French. After grade 7, they should have the ability to read and write in French at their current grade level. Late immersion was tried for a couple years in the 1980s at Lakewood Elementary School and it was unsuccessful. Crandell said it failed because the grade 6 immersion class was the only class in that school in which French was spoken. École Lac des Bois is a single-track immersion school, so all 300 students and the staff speak French. “It’s a great opportunity for students in Prince George and I’m just hoping we’ll get enough students,” said Crandell. April 27, 2012 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen ACTIVITIES Grade 6 and 7 Band Primary Choir Senior Choir Guitar Club After-school Pottery Club Daily lunch hour intramurals Leadership Team Christmas Nights of Music (choirs) Bears Den Aboriginal Club Sports Teams Quizme Pink Shirt Day Legomania Library Club HOUSE TEAMS The school houses collect points for citizenship, activities and sports. Les Flames Les Oilers Les Canadiens Les Maple Leafs Les Canucks Les Jets Lac des Bois, École Created By Kids, an art card fundraiser, was a project involving original student art organized by the Parent Advisory Council to raise money for a playground project. In February the school celebrates Carnaval de Lac des Bois. It is a week full of outside activities and the traditional crème glacée and sirop d’érable, at times without the requisite snow. Franco Fun included a school concert by an artist appearing at Prince George’s Cold Snap. The École Lac des Bois Red Cedar Team (Aliah, Pareesa, Avery) came first in the Battle of the Books at the 2017 competition. This is the first time the school has won. Both school bands, with Mme Phillips, participated in “Fanfare” at Vanier Hall in April 2017. The grade 6 band performed in the morning and the grade 7 band in the afternoon. Both presentations were analyzed by an adjudicator. Bands from all over SD 57, including secondary schools, took part. On February 22, 2017, aurthor Ted Staunton, entertained grade 5/6 students with his experience writing one title in the “7 Series”, the “7 sequels” and the “7 Prequels”. Teachers had been reading his book “Accord de puissance” to the students in preparation of his visit. He also wrote “Bounce” just published by Scholastic. Battle of the Books April 4, 2017 Courtesy of Tiiu Noukas, retired teacher Making gingerbread houses 2016 Courtesy of SD 57 website Lac des Bois, École Avery Parker and Madison Florell, grade 4 students at École Lac des Bois, check out Zig Zag, the hummingbird mascot from the 2013 Sherbrooke Canada Summer Games. The contest to come up with a mascot for the 2015 Canada Winter Games was launched today. January 16, 2014 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen With more than $21,000 raised for the Heart & Stroke Foundation’s Jump Rope for Heart, École Lac Des Bois of Prince George placed second in elementary school standings in the province for their fundraising efforts. Last year (2015) they raised more than $16,000 and staff was hoping to beat that amount this year. “We started Jump Rope for Heart in 2011, I think, and since then the kids have been super motivated and we’ve had a great team from École Heritage coming in and demonstrating and the kids were super engaged,” said Corinne Larue-Madill, vice principal of Lac Des Bois. “They worked really hard together.” Even the kindergarten students learned how to jump rope so they could participate, she added. “The students took on the responsibility and knew they could make a difference and they just went for it,” added Larue-Madill. Ruby McDonald practices skipping for Jump Rope for Heart at her school Lac des Bois. The school is ranked fourth in the province for fundraising efforts during this campaign. May16, 2016 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Lac des Bois, École Grade 6/7 students from Madame Sylvie’s class at École Lac des Bois elementary school delivered food to the Salvation Army. November 1, 2010 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Memories The spring of 2010 was when it all began. I was asked if I was interested in opening and being the principal of a single track French Immersion school at the former Lakewood Junior Secondary. That was a challenge I couldn’t refuse. I had the opportunity of naming the new school École Lac des Bois. I was able to choose a school motto “Un pour tous, tous pour un”. I asked Marc Lacaille, artist in town and new teacher, to design our school logo with trees/lakes and a bear and he did a great job. I knew there were too many blues as school colours so we went green for our school shirts to represent the Lakewood area. All students and staff were given a t-shirt when the school opened in 2010. I spent the summer at the school making sure things were done to my liking. I remember the school district wanting to build only two kindergarten classrooms and I wanted three. I said “build it and they will come”. The entire foods wing became a kindergarten haven with three classrooms full of eager 5 years old wanting to learn French. When I retired in 2015 we had 4 1/2 kindergarten classrooms. We opened with new bathrooms because there was no way primary students could reach junior high standards. The gym and library were so big and we got to keep the Art room upstairs with many windows. We converted the student lounge into a music room. We were able to keep all the band equipment and started our very own grade 6/7 band. We started with all divisions downstairs and eventually we had to move the intermediates upstairs as the student numbers grew. The highlight was when we opened the school up for a day at the end of August so that students and parents could have a walkabout and see their new school before opening day in September. The staff were wearing the new t-shirts and everyone was happy and excited. Madeleine Crandell 2017, retired principal Lac des Bois, École Students in the Learning Commons 2016 Courtesy of SD 57 website Here’s the truth about what setting up the new Lac des Bois library REALLY really involved and it sometimes was overwhelming. In the summer of 2010, my new assignment saw me cleaning, sorting and discarding. It appeared that the staff from the ‘donating’ schools and from Lakewood Junior did not have time to weed. The teacherlibrarian at Lakewood Junior told me they ran out of time and couldn’t finish before the end of the (2010) school year when Lakewood Junior Secondary was closing. EVERYTHING was sent from Spruceland’s French Immersion program, which was terminated. The Austin Road collection was going to the newly configured Heather Park except for items that were duplicates. As the leaving teacher-librarian, I brought those resources to Lac des Bois. I also received ALL resources from the closing Shady Valley and Salmon Valley schools. The library was full of ‘stuff ’ from the Lakewood Junior Library: books, wall maps, at least ten overhead projectors and other outdated equipment, including the furniture which was of a size suitable for junior high students. I started cleaning and organizing in the middle of August (unpaid, of course). A teacher-librarian friend came to help me and the District Resource Centre (now the District Learning Commons) sent two people to assist. Some of these resources were outdated and not usable and so they were discarded, including several sets of very old encyclopedias. Other items were outdated but still useable. The sorting decisions and placement took considerable time. Then we had to ensure that the ‘new’ collection was labelled with the school name and that all the shelving was organized, including making room for a story-reading area. The principal, Madeleine Crandell, was extremely supportive of the library and, yes, provided a generous budget for resources as well as a French-speaking library clerk. I ordered student and professional resources. I think it took about a month before the library was open. I was there two years and did not receive new furniture or shelving. However, the furniture and shelving for the “Learning Commons” have since been replaced. Lynn MacNeil 2017, retired teacher-librarian Malaspina Elementary 7900 Malaspina Avenue, Prince George “Home of the Mountain Lions” 1978 to Pr esent MISSION STATEMENT We will promote the intellectual, physical, emotional and social growth of each student within a safe, healthy, respectful, and caring community. Ma l as p i n a El e m e n t ar y 1988 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY As Malaspina School was still under construction in September 1978, students were bussed to four different schools: College Heights, Van Bien, Gladstone and Seymour Elementary. They lined up each day at 8:00 a.m. at the construction site waiting for the appropriate bus. In October 1979, the building was completed and over 250 students returned to their permanent home. At that time, the College Heights area was expanding rapidly and the school population quickly topped 400. In 1980, an addition was added including the expansion of the gymnasium. In the late 1980’s, the school’s fourteen classrooms were supplemented by five portables. Since then, the school enrollment has gradually been declining. Wait ing for t he Scho ol B us 1 978 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Malaspina Elementary Malaspina offers kindergarten to grade 7 and serves an urban residential neighbourhood consisting of mostly single-family dwellings or duplexes. It has a large playing field, a well developed adventure playground and two large hard surfaced play areas. With the closure of Gladstone Elementary in June 2002, the reconfiguration of school boundaries in the College Heights area increased Malaspina’s enrollment to 325 students. The school and street were named after Malaspina College in Nanaimo, which has now become Vancouver Island University. ENROLLME N T YEAR 1978 1981 1984 1987 1990 1993 1996 2000 2003 2006 2009 2012 GRADES # K-7 259 K-7 394 K-7 443 K-7 444 K-7 427 K-7 414 K-7 386 K-7 255 K-7 286 K-7 268 K-7 267 K-7 259 Gr ad e 4/5 Cl a ss 1999 M i ss Ma rp l e s , t e a ch e r SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) M al as p i n a Sta f f 20 01 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Malaspina Elementary PR I N C I PA LS Phil Redmond Don Basserman Norm Arnold Ray Giffin Rick Manning Bruce Wiebe Nevio Rossi Anjula Corbin V I C E P R I N C I PAL S Tony Cable Maurice Vignal Bob Strain Teresa Saunders Al Hiebert Barb Osten Nevio Rossi Mike Moore Rob Larson (zone VP) M al as p i n a S ta f f 19 79 Courtesy of Marguerite MacKenzie, retired teacher F I R S T S TA F F Colleen (Swift) Crossfield Sheila (Marshall) Neufeld Dennis McGill Rick DeBelser Krystyna Duncan Sandy (Lloyd) Cluff Mary-Anne Poetsch Marguerite MacKenzie Shirley Richter Maureen Rochlitz (secretary) Phil Redmond (principal) Sherry Pooley Nancy (Slater) Armstrong Denise Webb Malaspina Elementary S P O RTS Or i gi na l Logo 19 79-2 000 S eni or B oys Ba sket b al l 199 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Rel ay Rac es 2009 Malaspina Yearbook 2009 G ir ls Vol ley b al l 2009 Malaspina Yearbook 2009 School Newsletter June 22, 2001 Malaspina Elementary FI N E A RT S A C T I V I T I E S C h ri s tm a s C o n ce r t 200 3 Courtesy of Sandra Hay, retired teacher Pi e d P i p e r D ram a Cl ub P e rf or ma n ce 199 5 Courtesy of Sandra Hay, retired teacher A n Ev e n in g o f T w o P la ys 1 9 9 0 ’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection A Te ddy B e a r C h ri s t ma s 1 997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection An nual Ar t Show 1 996 Courtesy of Sandra Hay, retired teacher Malaspina Elementary F I E L D TR I P S Fl yi ng “ U” G rad e 7 F i eld T ri p 20 01 Courtesy of Sandra Hay, retired teacher Winter Fun Snows hoeing 199 7 Courtesy of Sandra Hay, retired teacher Sal m on R elea se 2009 Malaspina Yearbook 2009 School Newsletter May 25, 2001 Malaspina Elementary Memories In 1990, the principal, Ray Giffin, went off on his yearly hunting trip in early October. The staff decided to put one over on Ray and turned his office into “Giffin’s Wildlife Sanctuary – We Give a Shoot.” Ray drove into an empty parking lot as all the teachers had parked elsewhere. He discovered a target painted on his office window with a moose in the middle; his office filled with stuffed animals; his office chair, that he greatly coveted, replaced by an ugly beat-up chair; and a note on his door from every teacher as to why he/she was not at school. Some of the notes read: BN called in as her kids are being sick all over the place; IA is not here, experiencing false labour pains; DM has gone away and not returned; WM had too many weeds in her garden. Ray took it all in good stride, including phoning Phil Redmond, the superintendent of schools, and asking him for 14 subs for the day! It was quite awhile before Ray had the window washed and even longer before he got his chair back. He remained well respected and it was a “bring the staff together” type of experience. Diane Sullivan 2012, retired teacher Not i c e, Sept emb er 13, 197 8 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Six-year-old Tracey arrived at the office door. Malaspina’s principal, Phil Redmond, asked her what she wanted. “The Lady Rabbit”, she replied. Phil couldn’t think of any classroom containing a furry bunny so he and Tracey started touring the school. As they were coming up to the end of a fruitless search, Phil suddenly realized that it was Speech Pathologist Anne Rabbitte’s day at Malaspina. Anne was the Lady Rabbitte! Shirley Richter 2008, retired teacher Malaspina Elementary One of the great things about Malaspina School has been the staff. We’ve had many changes over the years but, for the most part, the teachers, principals, and everyone else have been a friendly and, often, fun loving crew. Practical jokes started in the beginning years when the first principal (who later on became a superintendent) and his vice principal hauled a teacher’s bike up onto the roof and laid it across the skylight. When the teacher in question started looking for her bike, one of them just pointed towards the ceiling. The exclamation from the teacher was not to be heard by the children. The same principal and another vice principal had a good laugh at a teacher’s expense. She had left an explicit note asking that her announcement for intermediate choir be read exactly as written. The two administrators saw fit to add that all primary children were invited to the choir practice. Just as they expected, the teacher came charging down the hall to the office in a fury. They were laughing so hard they found it hard to tell her that the last part of the announcement had gone only to her room and not to the entire school. Another well-liked principal, who was an avid outdoorsman and hunter, came in after an absence to find his office literally “stuffed” with plush toys. That same principal came in another time to find his office door pasted with notes as to why the staff was away and not a teacher in sight. They were all hiding in the portable. The staff did relent, however, and showed up as the children arrived for class. A different principal found his office full of balloons on a milestone birthday. Another time, a prized office chair went missing from the principal’s office and showed up in a teacher’s classroom. When asked, long time staff have good memories of the laughs, but not always of the details of the many pranks that were played. There was never any malice to the jokes and the recipients were intended to know that they were only being picked on because they were good sports. Barb Nash 2012, retired teacher M a la spina St aff 2 011 Courtesy of Barb Nash, retired teacher McBride Centennial Elementary 1000 Third Avenue, McBride 1913 to Present “Work hard—show respect—make friends” Mission Statement Striving for quality as we learn and grow together—School, Family and Community McBride Centennial Elementary 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History McBride is located in the Robson Valley, 209 km east of Prince George. In 1913, a one-room school was situated in the middle of First Avenue near McBride’s train station. It was moved in 1914 to the present school lot. A larger school was built by Wade & Taggart on the east side of Main, between Third and Fourth Avenues, that was used until 1917. The building became too small when more settlers arrived and, from 1917-1947, a school named Fraser School was located between Third and Fourth Avenues. Second McBride School 1914 Valley Museum and Archives 2003.26.71 McBride Centennial Elementary Prince George Firm Secures Contract For New McBride School The local contracting firm of Bronger & Flynn have secured the contract for constructing the new school building to be erected by the provincial government in McBride. The firm expects to commence work shortly and will hurry the work completion as soon as possible. The building being used at present in McBride has been found inadequate and more commodious quarters are required to accommodate the increasing number of children. October 20, 1916 Courtesy of The Prince George Star Fraser School 1930 Ray Sansom collection reprinted in The Robson Valley Story, 2008 Fraser School students about 1937 Valley Museum and Archives 2003.4.3 McBride Centennial Elementary Ask Aid to Redesign and Enlarge McBride School A resolution asking the Provincial Department of Education to assist the McBride school board in redesigning the present school building adding two rooms and obtaining the services of an architect, has been forwarded to Victoria by the school trustees. This action was taken at a meeting of the McBride and District, Board of Trade, when H.D. Stafford, school Inspector, roundly criticised the school building and declared it inadequate. However, Mr. Stafford said he did not favor asking for a new school at this time. The resolution was drafted after the Board of Trade asked trustees to do so and members resolved to support it. NEVER SUITABLE In bringing the building under fire, Mr. Stafford said it was built in 1917 and would have been suitable for Vancouver Island, but had proved unsatisfactory here. Proper heating of the building never was possible and many days of school had been lost to pupils as it was closed on very cold days. Fuel expenditure has been high and no satisfactory results have been obtained. Mr. Stafford described it as the dirtiest school in the district, and said it has been getting worse in recent years. As citizens they would fail in their duty by allowing such conditions to continue, he maintained. The teachers were doing the best they could. The inspector advised the community to continue to try to get the best teachers available. Two rooms were needed and Mr. Stafford anticipated another teacher would be required next term. He thought the present building could be redesigned and two rooms added. May 27, 1943 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen In March 1945, there were plans to build a new elementary school but the ratepayers rejected the proposal. They were told it would more than double school taxation and, apparently, school conditions had improved since 1943. But then, in July, it was discussed again and approved. Unfortunately, in September, more problems occurred as the following article outlines. McBride Facing Trying Problem in School Project McBride School District is faced with the problem of having a contractor proceed with the construction of a school, for which bonds have not been issued, or postponing the construction if arrangements can be made with the contractor who alleges considerable loss by delay. Ratepayers meeting Thursday were informed trustees had wired a contractor at McBride Centennial Elementary Kimberly to come at once to start work, and a reply was read asking that the contract be ready for his signature on his arrival and that a payment of $8000 be available for early payment. It was learned that arrangements had not been completed to sell bonds and that no money was yet available. The price the bonds might bring also was not known. After some discussion, J.T. Oakley moved seconded by T. Clay, that construction of the new school be held over till spring to permit time for financing. Trustees A.A. Monroe and P.E. Lonsdale went to Prince George on Saturday seeking legal and financial advice on the entire matter. Ratepayers on Thursday decided against purchasing two lots on Main Street for the school site concluding there was sufficient room on present school property to build the new structure facing Third Avenue. September 13, 1945 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen In 1946, a new Education Act dissolved individual school boards and the rural schools were taken over by larger school districts. The area from Dome Creek to the Alberta border and south to Valemount became School District #58 (McBride). There were 17 schools in this new school district and, within the year, many were slated to be closed. School District #58 was amalgamated with School District #57 (Prince George) in 1970. McBride Electing Trustees for New School District Roy Stibbs, school inspector, is expected here Monday from Prince George to conduct a meeting of taxpayers of McBride school about 4:30 p.m. to elect trustees for the new rural school district created under latest legislation. The new district will extend from Bend to Red Pass. April 25, 1946 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Then, in 1947, the Fraser School burned down. Kay Godfrey was working at the Red Cross Hospital at the time and she described what happened: “I remember the morning the old Fraser School burned down. I was laundress then and was upstairs at the window where my mangle was, when I noticed what I took to be steam rising from the roof. As I kept on staring I realized it was on fire. My children were in school, so I leaped from the chair, ran downstairs, and without asking for permission, said, “I’m going to the Fraser School,” and dashed out the door. On arrival at the school I looked for my children (it was 8:30 a.m.). I couldn’t find my McBride Centennial Elementary daughter, and immediately panicked when I discovered they had been going into the school to bring things out. After searching in the crowd I dashed up town, and still couldn’t find her so I dashed back to the school. Someone told me that everyone was out of the now merrily burning building and that my daughter was down at the rink getting water hoses. I decided to go back to work, and when I got there I was met by the news that I left the mangle on the shoe against the roller. It was singeing before someone noticed it and turned it off. It was lucky for me that it didn’t start a fire.” Marilyn Wheeler. The Robson Valley Story, 2008. After the Fraser School burned down, the elementary students moved into a newly constructed school on Third Avenue that was initially intended for the older students. It had a partition between the two lower rooms that could be removed for dances and events. In the mid-1960s there was a rapid increase in the school’s population and two large additions were made to the four-room building that added five classrooms, offices and a gymnasium. In 1966, the school’s name was changed to McBride Centennial Elementary in honour of Canada’s upcoming 100th birthday. An addition was made to the Centennial School that experienced foundation problems the following winter. McBride School 1948 Marilyn Wheeler. The Robson Valley Story, 2008. In 2000, McBride Centennial was deemed unsafe, having failed the structural tests for earthquake safety. A new school was built on the west side of the same property as the previous four schools. It opened in January 2001 and had an official ceremony on May 23, 2001 with Bill Christie, Chair of the Board of School Trustees and Phil Redmond, Superintendent of Schools, in attendance. McBride Centennial 1973 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection McBride Centennial Elementary ENROLLMENT YEAR GRADE # 1913 1-10 36 1918 1-10 21 1919-1944 No data 1945 1-11 89 1950 1-12 218 1958 1-12 347 1962 1-12 318 1963 1-7 214 1969 K-7 309 1980 K-7 208 1990 K-7 177 2000 K-7 183 2006 K-7 119 2014 K-7 87 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) McBride Elementary and High School staff 1959 Valley Museum and Archives 2003.7.4 Grade one class 1953-1954 The Exploration Place 2004.2.677 EARLY STAFF 1915-1930 Miss M.A. Baker W.J. Barclay Joseph C. Brannick Miss M.A. Clarke Miss E.G. Dadson Miss M.V. Deane Miss Lillian Fraser H.H. Hall Miss Muriel Harrop Miss M. Henderson Miss G. Klein O.R.H. McGary Dunbar H. McLean Chester W. McNeill Miss Jessie D. Moffat Agnus Cameron Morrow Miss R.M. Murray Miss S.E. (Nellie) Oliver Mrs. Earl Pettipiece J.C. Slater Frederick John Smith LeRoy B. Stibbs Melvin Taylor Mrs. E.F. Wade J.W. Young McBride Centennial Elementary PRINCIPALS H.J. Penny John E. Wood Elyne Roberts Norma Brent Eva Wendell George H. Cockburn F.N. Sutton R.F. Lucas J.E. Tait William E. (Bill) Bergen John Wheeler Tyrus Brown Terry Henry David Bond Phil Jensen Bruce Wiebe Steve Fleck Ted Zarowny Kairyn Russell-Janecke First Kindergarten class 1968 Marilyn Wheeler, teacher Marilyn Wheeler. The Robson Valley Story, 2008. REMEMBERING MARILYN WHEELER 1932-2016 Marilyn was born in Sussex, England. She received a teaching certificate and, after working at a boys’ school for a few years, she emigrated to Saskatchewan to teach. In 1958, she married fellow teacher, John Wheeler, and they moved to the Robson Valley where they developed a family farm and taught for many years. They were also active community members. Marilyn was involved with the McBride Farmers’ Institute. She founded several adult and children’s choirs and she was involved with the local museum, art gallery and public library. She served on the Regional District of Fraser Fort George, the College of New Caledonia board and the Northern Interior Board of Health. She was also a Justice of the Peace for fifteen years and was appointed a marriage commissioner in 1994. Marilyn was also a lover of history and produced the first edition of “The Robson Valley Story – a Century of Dreams” in 1979. This was followed up by an expanded second edition in 2008. Marilyn helped shape the nature of her community, the Robson Valley. She approached every problem with a resoluteness and determination that will be missed. McBride Centennial Elementary ACTIVITIES Kids Helping Kids, begun by principal Steve Fleck in 1994, was a program to help students with conflict resolution, particularly on the playground. Members of the group acted as monitors at recess and lunch to assist students in resolving conflicts that arose. The group also organized events for the students such as recess house games, sports day and soccer games. Christmas Party Much Enjoyed A fine concert and Christmas tree party in McBride Elks’ Hall by the three divisions of McBride School was held Wednesday, December 19. Santa Claus arrived with a full pack of gifts. The program was well enjoyed by young and old. James C. Fleming had charge of lighting the big tree, and L.A. Melanson was master of ceremonies. January 3, 1946 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Christmas concerts were an important community event each year. For many of the early years in McBride, they were held in the Empress Theatre, which later became the Elks Hall. Fathers, mothers and other community members made scenery, designed costumes, rigged curtains, baked, fundraised and assisted with the weeks of rehearsals. Everything usually came together and when disasters happened, the mood was benevolent and all was enjoyed. At the end of the concert, Santa Claus would bring in gifts. McBride Centennial Elementary In 1996, under the direction of Mrs. Yakwichuk, the school presented a musical play “Slapshot Santa Scores Again” as their Christmas concert. The backdrops were created by a group of parents. Each class was involved in at least two songs and a grade 6/7 choir backed up each song. Activities at the school have included an Art Club, Chess Club and Science Fair. Special theme days have been Bad Hair Day; Hat, Tie and Shades Day; Pajama Day and Western Day. Backdrop for “Slapshot Santa Strikes Again” 1996 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection “To SD m 57 S a Edu wye r cat ion ” pr o He rita gra ge Co m Ju llec tion ne 1 9 82 Western Day 1996 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Students performed in numerous operettas in the 1980’s including “Who Stole the Tarts”, “Tom Saywer, “HMS Pinafore”, “It’s Cool in the Furnace”, “Wheels”, and “The Runaways”. Many of these were produced by Dan Hughes and directed by Mary Kruse. The McBride Secondary School Band was often the orchestra for these productions. On April 4, 1997, fifty students raised $1989.68 for Hoops for Heart, sponsored by the Heart and Stroke Foundation. McBride Centennial Elementary In October 2006, students participated in the demonstrations on different forms of energy presented by Vancouver’s Science World. These included creating a giant fireball, using electrically charged particles to make hair stand up and using a giant slingshot to make a rubber chicken fly. Fire breathing boy October 4, 2006 Courtesy of The Valley Sentinel In October 1996, a group of students held a Leadership Retreat at Camp McInnis. They attended seminars, participated in games with a teamwork emphasis and completed group projects. Project topics included “Education and Your Future” and “Dealing with Peer Pressure” and they were presented to all participants. The participants also brainstormed ideas on how to improve their school. In April 2008, actors from the Missoula Children’s Theatre assisted with rehearsal of the school’s production of “The Little Mermaid”. Rehearsal for “The Little Mermaid” April 23, 2008 Courtesy of The Valley Sentinel McBride Centennial Elementary SPORTS The school teams are known as the Cougars. Students at McBride Centennial have had numerous opportunities over the years to develop their athletic skills and sportsmanship in a positive environment They have been able to hold their own in a variety of competitive situations with larger schools. Sports have included volleyball, floor hockey and basketball. Girls’ Volleyball 1996-1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Boys’ Volleyball 1996-1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Throughout the years, students have gone to Jasper, Valemount, Prince George and Mackenzie to test their skills, develop strong team play and make new friends. The school has also participated in the district track and field meets and the relays at Massey/Masich Place. In the 1990’s, the boys and girls began practicing and competing together on school teams. The school began hosting a coed basketball tournament for elementary players. In March 1997, the McBride Cougars boys’ basketball team won a tournament in Mackenzie. Principal Steve Fleck had promised to shave his head if they won. McBride Cougar on yearbook cover 1996-1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection McBride Centennial Elementary Did You Know? M iss S. E. (Nellie) Oliver was a teacher and, at the time she arrived in Mc Bride in 1921, daughter of the B.C. Premier John Oliver. She boarded with Anna and George Holdway where she met, and later married, Presbyterian minister Reverend Frank E. Runnalls. McBride District Conducting Stamp Sales Campaign The boys of Fraser School were employed by the village commissioners to clean up the town last Saturday. They made a good job of it and in the evening were entertained by the teachers to a lunch in the Fraser Hotel. April 27, 1939 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen McBride and district are concentrating on another War Savings Stamp and Certificate campaign led by the school children. C.E. Nelligan, campaign chairman, is making an urgent appeal to everyone to buy more and more stamps to keep the supplies rolling to the Canadians on every front. The price of a stamp is small but when multiplied hundreds of thousands of times across the Dominion the result means a real contribution by the civilians to their fighting men and women. September 28, 1944 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen I n the early 1960s, a single principal oversaw both the elementary and secondary schools, with Fern Mustard as the Head Teacher of the elementary school. In 1963, the schools were divided and John Wheeler was appointed principal of the elementary school. I n the 1960s, during the winter months, the PTA ran a soup program in the basement of McBride Elementary. The students brought their own lunch boxes and were served hot soup at tables. M cBride had a two session daily kindergarten, located in a portable building, that started in 1968. The McBride Courier reported on March 28, 1968: “The Centennial School Kindergarten Class in the old portable building is now going into its second month of very successful operation. Mrs. Marilyn Wheeler, as teacher, has put into effect many unique and inexpensive ideas in the furnishing and equipping of the classroom to make it a delightful place of adventure for the twenty-four youngsters registered…”. It was successful and an additional class was created the following year. After amalgamation with SD 57, replacement kindergarten equipment was mostly put in storage because it was felt that it duplicated what was already in place. McBride Centennial Elementary M cBride Centennial had a reading and writing system designed for rural children by principal John Wheeler and approved by Victoria. The levels system was also introduced at the same time allowing children to work at their own speed. After amalgamation with SD 57, the school returned to the grade system. A t a school board meeting held in the Robson Valley, after the 1970 amalgamation of School District #58 (McBride) with School District #57 (Prince George), a question was asked about the proposed addition to McBride Centennial Elementary and the need for consultation with anyone involved with the school. This may have prevented the foundation problems that started in the first winter. P arents have been an important part of school life at McBride Centennial. From weekly classroom volunteers to hot lunch cooks, parents have been involved all around the building. The Parent Advisory Council supported a swimming program at a private pool in Valemount because there is no pool in McBride. I n 2001, the Elks and Royal Purple Associations contributed to the school’s playground. I n 2008, Kylie Taphorn, Rebecca Marsh and Kaileen Starlund received awards for the poster that they entered in the B.C. Professional Firefighters Burn Unit Contest. There were 1100 entries from around the province and 50 received prizes. Kylie’s poster was one of 6 Regional Grand Prize winners and she received $500 for School playground May 16, 2007 Courtesy of The Valley Sentinel the school and a pizza party for her class. I n 2007, Mrs. Walchuk’s grade 4/5 class received certificates from the Robson Valley Arts and Culture Council for their help during the Festival of Lights celebration. The class created lanterns and also sang carols along Main Street during the parade. Students accept awards for posters June 4, 2008 Courtesy of The Valley Sentinel McBride Centennial Elementary Memories I became the principal of McBride Centennial Elementary and Dunster Fine Arts Elementary in 2006. I had lived in the valley for 10 years and, when I arrived in 1996, I was the preschool teacher for two years. I also was a substitute teacher at the high school and elementary school. In October 1998, I became the counselor for the McBride and Dunster schools. I did that for eight years and then embarked on a new challenge. The familiarity I had with the staff, students and programs at both schools helped in my adjustment as a principal. I was also a parent with children in the school system so what happened to my, and everyone’s, children was important to me. I have tried to create conditions that encouraged children to work toward their potential at both schools. Dunster closed in 2010 so now I have just one school to focus on. Kairyn Russell-Janecke 2017, principal I remember not liking my grade 2 teacher at McBride Elementary because she didn’t like my writing. I thought my writing was pretty good but I really used to just scribble! I remember getting the mumps while in grade 3. When I returned to school some of the older boys started calling me “Mumps”. Within days (possibly weeks) everyone was calling me “Mumps”, even my teachers. I wore this nickname throughout high school and well into adult life. As a teacher at Duchess Park Junior High School in 1974, I took a class of grade 8 students to McBride on a three day field trip. The locals still called me “Mumps”, much to the delight of my students! I remember my first kiss. I was in grade 7 and no matter how hard I ‘tried’ I couldn’t seem to outrun this female classmate while we were playing “Catch and Kiss”. I remember my first wage-paying job besides, splitting fence posts or peeling poles. As a 15 year-old high school student, I was hired for the summer to help build a significant addition on to McBride Elementary School. Regular hours, rain or shine, do as you’re told. This was an eye-opening lesson in life. Norm Monroe 2017, former student I remember when I was in about grade 4 or 5 we had a teacher, whose name I can’t remember, who was being courted (or at least admired) by a grade 12 high school student. He entered the classroom near the end of the day and was humourously harassing the teacher. She was giggling and trying to keep her composure but it wasn’t working. In a minute or so, the grade 12 student announced “Class dismissed” and she nodded in agreement. Keith Monroe 2017, former student Morfee Elementary 310 Nechako Drive, Mackenzie 1972 to Present “Providing Opportunities for Personal Excellence” Mission Statement Working as a team, Morfee Elementary inspires confidence, promotes a love of learning, and provides opportunities for excellence. Morfee Elementary with snowy peaks overlooking the school 2017 History Courtesy of Megan Brumovsky Morfee Elementary School is situated in the town of Mackenzie, 190 km north of Prince George. Since the School District #57 administration office, and much of the district’s professional development, is in Prince George, the Highway 97 is well travelled by Morfee teachers. The district administration, maintenance and specialist support staff also travel the highway to provide service to the school. In a small town like Mackenzie, one cannot mention the history and significant events of a school without relating it to the community as a whole. Mackenzie, a logging/lumber/pulp industry town was planned for and built as an instant town with its beginnings in 1966. Trailer parks and modular schools made for a quick start to the town. Employment brought young families to Mackenzie. At first, it was a transient town, with trailers and modular buildings meeting housing and school needs. Permanent residential areas were developed, as well as a mall and other needed amenities, helping to stabilize and root families in the young town. Schools were needed. Mackenzie Elementary, or “MAC 1” as it was locally called, was built in 1966 and for several years housed grades 1-10. A new secondary school was created in 1971 and Morfee Elementary a year later. Morfee Elementary, for planning and construction purposes, was originally known as Mackenzie III. Pinetree Construction was contracted to build the school in 1973. A temporary, modular building was placed on the site during construction of the main building and, by January 1975, Morfee Elementary officially opened and classes moved from their modular school into the new building. The name Morfee comes from Morfee Creek that was named by Father Royer after Flight Lieutenant Allen Morfee, RCAF, who flew for the earliest air photography program in the early 1930s. He did a great amount of flying in the Mackenzie area. He was stationed at Jericho in Vancouver for some years and later in Ottawa. Morfee Elementary Morfee Elementary Annex 1973, “temporary” for 27 years! SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The school had a full-size library and a gymnasium. Most of the modular building was removed to the high school property, leaving four modular classrooms on Morfee’s school ground for “future” use. As it happened, the “future” was to be sooner rather than later. When the main school was completed in 1975, the student population exceeded expectations and more classrooms were needed immediately. The annex lived on much longer than intended, with a portable added besidethe annex in 1977. The classes in these buildings traversed between the annex/portable and main building for gym, library, computer classes and assemblies, which necessitated carting supplies back and forth, braving all weather conditions. In the snowbelt of Mackenzie, that was often an onerous and challenging feat, especially for the primary students donning snowsuits, mitts and boots for each winter excursion to and from! At the town’s peak in 1980, there were three elementary schools and one high school with maximized student populations. The town and industries were stable and thriving. The town population was fairly consistent within the 4500 - 5500 range with the average age being 35. The bulge of elementary students progressed naturally into the high school and the elementary school populations decreased as fewer families were moving to town or having babies. Throughout the school district, declining student populations were the norm and district budgets were reduced, resulting in school closures. In the Mackenzie area, three of the four elementary schools eventually closed: McLeod Lake, Mountain View and Mackenzie Elementary School, with all the town of Mackenzie’s elementary public school population filtering into Morfee Elementary. In 1998, as a result of the government’s K - 3 class size reduction initiative, Morfee required even more classrooms and Education Minister Paul Ramsey announced that Morfee Elementary would receive a $1.6 million dollar addition. Everyone in Morfee endured months of hammering and construction dust, with rewards to be reaped in January 2001. With Morfee’s beautiful, large addition came many updates and improvements to the facility as a whole: new cabinetry in every class, latest technology, new library, computer lab, multipurpose room, computers in each classroom, telephones in every room, improved insulation. After 27 years, Morfee Elementary said farewell to the “temporary” annex and celebrated being “all Together, One School” under one roof, for the first time in its existence. Everyone was proud of the “new” school and held a grand opening on January 25, 2001. As with any similar forest dependent town, the population fluctuated with the state of the industry as it directly influenced employment and the overall economic situation. In 2007, the Softwood Lumber Agreement between Canada and the USA had devastating results on the town of Mackenzie, with a rapid closure of six mills and loss of approximately 1500 jobs from the town’s 5000 people. Many families moved away from Mackenzie for employment and family support and, consequently, school populations decreased significantly. More social programs were needed for the remaining families. Morfee’s student and family support programs increased (meals programs, food hampers, counselling, etc). Morfee Elementary In 2014, sawmills began to open and jobs meant growth once again for the town and increased enrollment in the schools. In 2017, Mackenzie is optimistic about its future and diversity in industry. Families continue to move into the town and Morfee Elementary has every class close to capacity. Present communication between the School District, Morfee Elementary and Mackenzie Secondary personnel centres around the “Middle Years Program” in which grade 7 students are programmed into the high school. This is expected for September 2017, to alleviate overcrowding in the elementary school, to utilize available facilities and to continue to make accommodation for student increase. ENROLLMENT YEAR 1972 1974 1976 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2007 2009 2016 GRADE # 1-7 93 K-7 284 K-7 376 K-7 425 K-7 387 K-7 412 K-7 343 K-7 264 1-7 231 K-7 155 K-7 409 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Grade 2/3 class 1973-1974 Courtesy of Val Kilbey, retired teacher Back (L to R): Roberta Gladwin (Gr. 1) John Mandoli (Gr. 6/7) Joan Hunter (Gr. 5 and shared library) Front (L to R): Eleanor Schneider (shared library) Kris Ruesse (Gr. 3/4) Val Kilbey (Gr. 2/3) Morfee Annex staff 1973-1974 Courtesy of Val Kilbey In 1973-1974, Morfee was technically an annex of Mackenzie School, dubbed “MAC 1” by the locals, and then the only school in Mackenzie. Bill Whalley was the principal of both schools but is not in the above photo. Morfee Elementary Val Kilbey recalls that Bill Whalley would come over from Mackenzie Elementary periodically but, aside from that, Morfee’s Annex staff and 133 students were on their own. Teacher John Mandoli was a big, imposing man so he handled any disciplining that was necessary. If there was a staff luncheon they might “hold the bell” for a few extra minutes at the end of lunch. Kris Ruesse, John Mandoli and Roberta Gladwin had taught for a few years so they were very helpful to the rookies. STAFF 1976-1980 Karen Caan Jackie Huff Gail Viergever Bob Leeson M. Wieke Lalitha Chandrasekaran Maureen Beard Joanne Pasquale Joan Thomas Sima Ghumman Bob Doyle, zone music Miss Deuling, zone french Ken Bohn Joanne Zagar Ken Sharp Vera Buchanan Ann Chamberlain Linda Kelly-Smith Joanne Jakubek Dale Bentley Lois Morrison Priscilla Griffiths Gail Smith Leslie van der Meer Homme van der Meer Quentin Brown Linda Long Norma-Jean Littleton Gordon Long Debby Thomson Kerry Baloc John Thomson Marilyn Lundstrom Nancy Englefield Lois Morrison Jeannie McMaster Derry Addison Heather Purves Sarah Wiens Laverne Adams Kate Inoue Pam Carr John Leitch Lynne Boomhower Joyce Ross Frances Roch Toni Skaalid Joanne Buckman Susan Cottell Tina Brown In the early years there was a lot of teacher turnover and often teachers stayed only a year or two. This changed in the early 1980s as the school district hired more teaching couples for Mackenzie, a fine place for raising a young family. Also, teaching positions became less readily available in the province so teachers stayed longer in Mackenzie. Morfee staff 2011-2012 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection PRINCIPALS Bill Whalley (with Mackenzie Elem.) Roy Taylor Bill Whalley David Elmore John McLay Keith Maurer Norma Hart Lori Dennill Martin Dugan Christa Barnes Morfee Elementary VICE PRINCIPALS Paul Raines Lynn Boomhower Homme van der Meer Frances Roch Lori Dennill Keith Maurer JoAnne Shepherd Pam Carr Kim Tobin (zone) Liana Grant Martin Dugan Christa Barnes Michele Walters ACTIVITIES Through the years, the energy, interest and expertise of Morfee staff extended beyond the classroom to the many extra-curricular activities they provided for students. Clubs have included Cheerleaders, the AV Team, a Computer Club, a Yearbook Club, a Newspaper Club, a Student Leadership Club, a Library Club, an Intermediate Readers Club, a Homework Club, a school choir, a Ukulele Club and a Recorder Club. There was a Green Team that created and maintained the school garden. Months of whole school effort, calling on creative, artistic, dramatic, oratory and musical talents, resulted in a number of fabulous school musicals. These included “Alice in Wonderland”, “Clown”, “Computerized Christmas”, “Johnny Appleseed”, “Robin Hood” and “Treasure Island”. They were enjoyed by the parents, the students and the community. Musical Programs SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The school also participated in the D.A.R.E. program that was the Drugs and Alcohol Resistance Education delivered by the RCMP. The students regularly attended the Children’s Festival in Prince George. Morfee Elementary SPECIAL EVENTS The Morfee Family BBQ was put on by the Parent Advisory Council and Morfee staff during the first week of school. This was an annual favourite for everyone involved as it was not only fun, delicious, but also connected the Morfee community early in the school year. Authors Eric Wilson and Richard Thompson both visited the school. Morfee also participated in DEAR (Drop Everything and Read!). Morfee had Multicultural Days where students showcased a special part of their families’ cultures with songs, dance, food, costume or special articles. Morfee often held Heritage Fairs. In 2014, grade 5 student Robyn Barwise was a winner. One judge was the Power Pioneers Vice President, Tim Thompson. Robyn’s project, entitled “Working Women of Wells” featured her great-grandmother who was a BC pioneer and the first telephone operator in Wells and Barkerville during the 1940s. Robyn Barwise with Tim Thompson 2014 Multicultural Day 1997 Courtesy of Spirit of ‘97 Yearbook Courtesy of Barwise family Speech Arts developed from an individual school extra-curricular activity, and extended into the Mackenzie Zone Speech Arts Festival. In 1998, 61 speech artists practised and polished their poems in preparation for the workshop/festival in which they were adjudicated. The finale was an evening of poetry presentation open to the community, performed by the speech artists and Morfee’s gave many fine performances. Other special events included a Hop-a-Thon that was a kindergarten fundraiser for Muscular Dystrophy. There were also Science Fairs, Spell-A-Thons. Each year there was a Morfee Carnival. For many years, a class in each school in Mackenzie participated in the Salmonid Program by volunteering to raise Kokanee from egg to fry, while learning about the lifecycle of the salmonids. When the Kokanee fry were big enough, they were released in Dina or Morfee Creek. This program was supported and monitored by B.C. Fish and Wildlife. Morfee Elementary SPECIAL PROGRAMS The Aboriginal Education Program is noteworthy in its numerous unique opportunities for the students involved. Aboriginal elders and the local environment are capitalized on to provide a rich program that embraces the indigenous culture of the area. Aboriginal Education Workers, Mrs. Cowan and Ms. Rice developed a strong and varied program. Students learn in the field. Outdoor experiences include: • visiting the Caribou at Kennedy Siding and learning of their habits and migration through provincial expert in caribou management, Dale Seip • gathering berries (blueberries, cranberries and rosehips), Muskeg tea, wild rice, wild rhubarb and birch bark with elders’ guidance • snowshoeing on location and learning first hand from trapper Chico Crossland about line baiting, setting traps, skinning and stretching pelts Other cultural activities include: • learning about the indigenous culture through stories, baking and crafts (i.e. making drum rattles, honour feathers, ookpiks, moccasins, bannock and maple taffy) • learning local first nations languages through the elders • Aboriginal students participating in the annual Aboriginal Youth Conference in Prince George Aboriginal Education Morfee Yearbook 2009-2010 Mrs. Sue Crosby’s grade 2/3 class participated in the Tomatosphere Program by planting 100 tomato seeds. Twenty-five planted seeds were sent into space on the Space Shuttle, Endeavor, and were treated with ultraviolet light. Another twenty-five planted seeds went on the Endeavor but were not treated with light. The control group was twenty-five planted seeds that stayed on Earth and were treated with ultraviolet light and twenty-five planted seeds that stayed on Earth that did not receive ultraviolet light. The conclusion by the grade 2/3 class was that seeds treated with ultraviolet light grew quickest, whether they had been in space or not. The seeds from space did seem to grow larger plants. Tomato plants were chosen for this experiment because tomatoes are a highly nutritious food source and could possibly be grown in space to provide food, oxygen and water as well as removing carbon dioxide from the air. Students involved in this program all took home tomato plants at the end of the school year and enjoyed some delicious tomatoes! Morfee Elementary SPORTS The school teams are the Morfee Grizzlies. Morfee Elementary students had opportunities to participate in many sports including floor hockey, soccer, basketball, volleyball, handball and track and field. Cross-country training was offered in each elementary school in the Mackenzie zone, with the goal of competing in zone-wide races and Fun Runs. The culmination of the season was the ever-popular Cross Country Race where the whole community showed up to cheer on the runners. Morfee School hummed with anticipation of the runs and many, many students and teachers were involved in the training and races each year. Morfee has also participated in district events such as the indoor relays. The school holds an annual Terry Fox Run with the whole school participating in this fundraiser. They also participate in Jump Rope for Heart that is a fundraiser for the Heart and Stroke Foundation Morfee girls playing basketball March 1, 2006 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen School Mascot 2017 Courtesy of Megan Brumovsky Did you Know? M I orfee Elementary has Strong Start that is an early intervention program for one to five year olds with each child being accompanied by an adult. n 1973-1974 teachers Kris Ruesse , John Mandoli and Roberta Gladwin had their spouses working at other schools in Mackenzie. That was the norm in the early days and made for fun socially. Most were young, newly married and making money. Morfee Elementary I n 1973, the school board called for early tenders on the supply of construction steel for five new elementary schools (Morfee being one of them) in an effort to save time and possibly money. Steel was in short supply and two school construction projects had already been delayed due to late delivery of steel. (Source: Prince George Citizen, Dec. 19, 1973) O ne year, as he was out exercising while his aquarium was cleaned, Morfee Kindergarten’s pet turtle “disappeared”. After a thorough search of the immediate classroom, neighbouring classes and hallways, and even outside of the annex, the turtle was not found. The worst was feared for this fast walking pet. All was forgotten until three months later when a very dusty turtle emerged from under the bookshelf in the bookroom next door, where he had apparently satisfied his hibernation instinct. In celebration of his return, a bright red bow was stuck on his shell and he was delivered to the pet store for “safekeeping”. (Source: the negligent classroom teacher who cleaned the turtle aquarium and shall remain anonymous) I n 1987, the entire school participated in fund raising for Rick Hansen and his Man in Motion World Tour. They raised a total of $985.32. When he visited Morfee Elementary, a cheque in this amount was presented to him by student, Tina Clark, who felt honoured to do so … an experience she “will always remember”. S pokane’s Gonzaga University offered a Masters Off-Campus Program in Mackenzie from 1993-1995. It was amazing that, in a town as small as Mackenzie, 23 Mackenzie teachers took advantage of this professional development coming to town and registered for this two year Masters in Administration and Curriculum Development. Nineteen teachers completed the program including six from Morfee. I n 1997, two local forestry companies, Timber West and Fletcher Challenge, partnered with the Mackenzie Zone schools to provide funding for 9 extra computers in order to increase student/technology ratios. Morfee was recipient of 2 brand new 5260 Power Macintoshes. M ackenzie’s Gymnastics Club had an agreement with Morfee Elementary allowing the club to store their equipment in Morfee’s storage locker and to use the gym for their practices. In return, they permitted Morfee’s staff and students to use their equipment during the gymnastics component of the Physical Education Program. Often, the Gymnastics club would have experts volunteer to assist with instruction and spotting during the school program. T he 1997–1998 School Accreditation was very successful. Morfee Elementary was evaluated in four goal areas by an external team: Language Arts, Mathematics, Individual Learning Characteristics of Students, plus, Problem Solving and Critical Thinking. M orfee Elementary received a beautiful, new playground in 1992 and another in 2008, the results of years of fundraising by an active Parent Advisory Committee. Morfee Elementary Morfee playground 2017 Courtesy of Megan Brumovsky S anta, often accompanied by Mrs. Claus, was helicoptered in each year, landing in Morfee Elementary’s field, so that he and some of his special elves could visit and deliver candy canes to everyone in the school. In preparation for this special event, selected students would don snowshoes and trample down the snow in the designated landing area so that the helicopter could land. Mackenzie is in a “snowbelt” so this sometimes meant braving freezing temperatures and stomping a depth of up to 40 cm of new snow in a helicopter pad sized area – no easy feat. When Santa’s helicopter was spotted, an excited PA announcement would have the school population in snowsuits and lining up outside behind the taped area in order to welcome the visitors and to help them through the snow to the school. Yellowhead Helicopters received a big thank you for their volunteer chopper and Christmas cheer each year in conjunction with this special event. Memories Morfee was more than a school; it was an energizing place of learning with so much offered to the students in any year. Many teachers worked well together and shared readily with each other. In the early 1980s, there was the experienced, the confident and revered Marilyn Lundstrom. She was “Queen of the Annex” to all the rookies in the annex who readily came to her for support and assistance. She always took the time to lend a hand, share an idea and give advice. It was a great place to work and learn. One common complaint amongst teachers is that there is never enough time to converse and learn from other teachers about practice. Not so in Mackenzie and, in my experience, not at Morfee. When you work and socialize with many teachers, conversations often include “school talk” and, consequently, through shared passion for the job, meaningful pedagogical conversations, Pro-D and shared experiences, goals and visions are clarified, supports are identified and close friendships are built on common ground. With friends as colleagues, collaborative effort, long hours of hard work, and comradery in the name of quality education, is what I remember of Morfee days. I will always think fondly of my 22 years at the school. Pam Carr 2017, retired teacher Morfee Elementary There are so many special memories of my many years at Morfee. The memory that comes to mind first is about the amalgamation of the annex and the main building after the construction of the addition. It had often seemed like we had two schools with two staffs but once the work was done we got to join together into one large family who all lived in one house! We were gifted with a beautiful new and updated facility that we were proud to call our home. Other special memories include the beginning of the year BBQ put on by our PAC, Santa arriving by helicopter the last day before Christmas holidays, students squealing with delight as they zipped down the snow hills on crazy carpets, the fun the staff had when they got together socially and the hard work of the PAC on many initiatives that helped to make Morfee a wonderful place for students and staff. Sue Clark 2017, retired teacher There are many memories of fun times from my Morfee years that just warm my heart. One memory from the early 1980s is the outdoor rink that was made on the school grounds and Paul Raines (VP then) taught students how to curl, improvising with coffee cans filled with ice for the curling rocks. Also, when Roy Taylor was principal, he always positioned himself at the school entrance in order to greet kids as they arrived and again at the day’s end to say “Good bye”. He was a caring, welcoming model. Some staff members were like family and school often needed to be that extension of home. I went through all the emotions with Frances and Ray Roch as they went through the adoption stages for their little girl from China. When she finally arrived, Frances worked at Morfee and little Katie spent some time in the kindergarten room after school waiting for her Mom. I would check in on her, calling her “Darlin’” when talking to her. Ray came to take her home one day, and to his “Katie, time to go.” came an emphatic retort, “I not Katie, I Darlin!” Carmie Webster 2017, Morfee secretary Large addition to Morfee 2017 Courtesy of Megan Brumovsky A large addition was made to Morfee Elementary that enabled the school to accommodate students from Mountain View Elementary, McLeod Lake Elementary and Mackenzie Elementary when these schools were closed. Morfee Elementary The Prince George Citizen and Mackenzie Times newspapers included almost 300 articles on Morfee Elementary School throughout the years. Below are just a few news samples. Nukko Lake Elementary 23955 Chief Lake Road, Nukko Lake 1953 to Present Mission Statement Nukko Lake School provides a safe learning environment that values students as unique individuals, encourages respect for self and others, and develops the skills, attitudes, and abilities necessary to achieve success in school and life. Nukko Lake Elementary 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History The history of education in the “lakes district” dates back to the one-room schools of the early 1900’s. As the era of the one-room school house diminished, most of the lakes area students were absorbed into Nukko Lake School. The present Nukko Lake School began in 1953 as a portable on land donated by Frank Allen. In 19581959, the school increased in size to two rooms and included indoor washrooms and a workroom. The original portable was sold by the school board in 1958. From 1972 to 1974, a new office area, staffroom and washrooms for teachers were added and another two portables were moved to the site. It was a school consisting of five classes in four different buildings. In 1975, the first kindergarten was held in the old teacherage. Nukko Lake Elementary Another major addition was made in 1976-1977. A grade 7 classroom, kindergarten classroom and a half gym were added along with more washrooms and change rooms. As the enrollment grew during the next few years, two portables were again added to the site. An infestion of bats in the ceiling of the patchwork school prompted an outcry over student safety in the 1990’s and plans were made for a new school which officially opened in 1996. The architects of the rebuilt school were Killick Metz Bowen Rose. The contractor was Witt Construction. In the 1994-1995 year, the entire population was bussed to Edgewood as the old school was condemned. The students renamed the combined school, Edge of Nukkolakewood. enrollment Nukko Lake Elementary 1980 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection y ear grade # 1956 1-8 68 1960 K-5 91 1965 1-6 106 1970 1-7 148 1975 K-7 136 1980 K-7 160 1985 K-7 190 1990 K-7 175 1995 K-7 244 2000 K-7 151 2005 K-7 109 2010 K-7 104 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Nukko Lake Div. 5 Class 1996 Miss C. Hight, teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Nukko Lake Elementary Nukko Lake Elementary Official Opening September 30, 1996 Our New School First of all, I would like to thank the P.A.C. and the Playground Society for supporting and generously giving to the new school. I know everyone here has probably heard this so many times, but it just shows how much we appreciate it. Next, I have to say that this is the most perfect school I have ever been to. The teachers are excellent, the principal is outstanding, the building is nice and bright, and all the desks and chairs match. The best thing about the new school, I have to say, is the computer lab. There are 15 Macintosh Performa computers in the lab itself and 5 others throughout the school. One of the neat things about these computers is the inter-connecting links between them. Every one is connected to every other one, so they all share with each other. Another one of the great things about this wonderful school is the library. It has an electronic sign-out system, instead of a separate card for each book that students would have to sign. It was a special treat when authors and storytellers from in and around the Prince George area kicked off the library opening last week. Would you please take a moment to look around our new gym? It’s full-sized, has six basketball hoops and a shiny new sprung wood floor. The equipment room is loaded with all sorts of goodies, including basketballs, volleyballs, soccer balls and other great things. In closing, I would like to thank the parents and all of you for coming. Sean O’Hagan, grade 7 student. Opening Ceremonies Speech, 1996. My School Computer Lab 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection What can I say but that I love this school? It means a lot to me. When people ask me what school I go to I am proud to say Nukko Lake Elementary. When people ask me what the new school is like, I try to keep my answers short, but I could go on forever. Not many people can say that they look forward to going to school, but I do. I look forward to using the 15 brand new Macintosh computers, and playing in our spacious new gym. But you don’t need me to describe it to you. Just take a moment to look around and see for yourself. I enjoy just being able to use this bright, airy, new building that is 1,000,000 times better than the old, dark one we used to have. I love all the great new equipment, from the matching desks and chairs to the roomful of gym equipment in the gym. I know plenty of people who wish that they could go to school here. This place is a safe haven for my friends and I, with great teachers and a cool principal. In closing, I would like to thank the parents, PAC members, the playground society and the community in general, for your generous support and all the effort that went into the building. I love this school and I am proud to be a part of it. Michelle Derksen, grade 7 student. Opening Ceremonies Speech, 1996. Nukko Lake Elementary Principals Michael Van Der Ree George Wilson Phil Redmond Bud Burbee Jim Briggs Dave Ross Ted Danyluk Lee Bleecker Brian Pepper Janice Wharrie Dan Domes Bruce Wiebe Rob Larson Bill McIver Norman Kidwell Tracy Baldridge Bruce Wiebe, principal 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Nukko Lake Staff 1986 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Nukko Lake Elementary Activities Richard Thompson Storytelling 1990’s Nukko Lake Library SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Skipping at Recess 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Nukko Lake Choir 1996 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ski Trip 1990’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Nukko Lake Elementary Sports Edge of Nukkolakewood Relays 1995 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Nukko Lake Girls Basketball 1996 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Nukko Lake Boys Volleyball 1996 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Nukko Lake Elementary Did You Know? S ince Nukko Lake School first opened, a large percentage of its student population has been bussed to the school. The first bus contract was awarded to Frank Allen in 1958 who bought two busses and started the route. Part of his bus run was to take Grade 8 students into Prince George Secondary in town. District routes run by Diversified Transportation continue to bring students from the surrounding “lakes” catchment area to the school. Bus Drivers Nukko Lake Run 1996 C SD 57 Education Heritage Collection ross country running is a popular activity at many elementary schools. The Nukko Lake Annual Bear Chase event has been taking place every fall since the 1980’s. Many local elementary schools have won certificates from this event. Nukko Lake Annual Bear Chase Certificate 1980 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Nukko Lake Elementary D uring the last twenty years, students at Nukko Lake have participated in various tree- planting activities. They have seen first hand the devastation of the pine beetle in their rural environment. A grade 7 student, Burke Newman, in the Prince George Citizen on May 25, 2000 said: Our grade seven students have recently been granted the opportunity to tree plant. Northfolk Forestry provided my class with trees, tools, and the assistance we needed to do the job. The work wasn’t very difficult, but we labored continuously until we ran out of trees. I personally thought it was fun, and great work experience, but probably not as enjoyable as the Grade six students’ Shogun field trip the same day. Tree Growing Contest 1987 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection N ukko Lake, like other rural schools, has been threatened with closure on many occasions as the enrollment declines to under 100 students. Rural sustainability is a topic discussed in every budget setting. The latest report, Giscome (Willow River), Hixon and Nukko Lake Neighbourhood Learning Centres Feasibility Study, prepared on May 16, 2011 by Pascal Charest, Generations Land use Planning and Consulting and Ed Chanter, Urban and Regional Planner for the Fraser Fort George Regional District, was presented to the Board of Education in May 2011. This report looked at the shared use of rural school facilities with the named communities by establishing a Neighbourhood Learning Centre model. Notice Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen October 30, 1961 Notice Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen April 13, 1976 Nusdeh Yoh Elementary 2012 to Present 2579 Victoria Street, Prince George “Rooted in Aboriginal world views, culture and language” History Nusdeh Yoh Elementary School occupies the former Carney Hill Elementary School. In 2010 it became an Aboriginal Choice School after the indigenous communities and the trustees of School District #57 decided to take on a unique responsibility and opportunity to promote harmonious relationships and the co-existence of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people alike. It would be the first Aboriginal Choice school in the province. In October 2012, the school proudly announced its new name, “Nusdeh Yoh”. Nusdeh Yoh Elementary school 2017 Courtesy of Tiiu Noukas, retired teacher Back view of the school 2017 Courtesy of Tiiu Noukas, retired teacher Jessi Abela, 10, a student at the Aboriginal Choice school cuts out a caribou clan symbol for regalia being made for the school’s drumming group. The students in the group are making their own regalia to be worn when they make public performances. May 6, 2011 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Nusdeh Yoh Elementary Students for Nusdeh Yoh rehearse the Tsa (Beaver) dance at the re-naming ceremony Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Principal Excited About Aboriginal School Prospects Kathy Richardson is the Nusdeh Yoh principal. As a choice school, Nusdeh Yoh has 17 non- aboriginal students among a school population of 166. “Our students come from all over the place—we have Carrier, Cree, Blackfoot, Metis, Gitxsan, Kispiox, Tl’azt’en. We’ve had some Objibwe students, and some from areas I can’t pronounce,” laughed Sophie Gillis (Aboriginal Education Worker). “Some of those parents choose to come to the school because of the cultural component. They want their kids to learn more about traditional environmental knowledge. A lot of people in the community don’t understand this is a choice school and they can attend even if they live out of the catchment area.” The school currently offers Carrier language instruction in a Nak’azdli dialect and eventually plans to incorporate more aboriginal languages, beginning at the pre-school level. All students receive instruction in aboriginal history, traditional culture and arts. “These kids know more about language than I ever had the opportunity to learn when I was younger, and it was my mom’s first language,” said Gillis, part of the Saik’uz First Nation south of Vanderhoof. Her grandmother was Sophie Thomas, a traditional medicine healer who died in 2010. “My mom never taught it to me back when I was younger because they didn’t see the value of retaining it. It’s exciting to see the kids learning it now.” October 25, 2012 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen January 30, 2014 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Nusdeh Yoh Elementary Aboriginal Choice Program All Aboriginal students are entitled to not only the quality holistic education that is available to all SD 57 students, but also one that validates, recognizes, and facilitates the revitalization of Aboriginal cultures, histories, values, and languages. Nusdeh Yoh, “house of the future”, has been chosen as the Aboriginal school name. The name selection process involved consultation with elders, parents, staff, and students. All stakeholders desired a name that represented the hope inherent in this school to effect meaningful change in the lives of our children and families. In the context of Nusdeh Yoh, student success is a holistic measure. We know that the emotional health and well being of our students is fundamental to their ability to access instruction and fully participate in their learning. Our focus on Restorative Practice is more than a philosophy of student discipline. It is an acknowledgement of the need for respectful relationships between all members of our school community and forms the foundation for a positive, welcoming school environment for all learners and participants. Courtesy of SD 57 website Nusdeh Yoh - Our Story Begins… Thomas King, celebrated Aboriginal author, writes, “The truth about stories is, that’s all we are.” In Aboriginal tradition, stories, songs and dances belong to individuals, families and communities. They are personal and valued property. Stories are a powerful vehicle for transmission of traditions, beliefs and values. The story of Nusdeh Yoh was created from the expressed hopes and dreams of our community for our children. And so it goes . . . Our school is a welcoming home for all children from all backgrounds. Our home is Lheidli T’enneh territory, the place where the rivers meet. We celebrate our living aboriginal cultures and the strengths and values that they hold. We value our culture and language, quality education, and our children and families. Lheidli means the place where the rivers meet and flow together. We the people of this place are Dakelh, or those who travel by boat. Lheidli has always been a gathering and meeting place. A place where people are welcomed, relationships built, trade and commerce grown, and children cared for. Much has changed over the years and we’ve overcome many challenges but this spirit in the land and this place is still alive and well. Nusdeh Yoh means “House of the Future”. The Nusdeh Yoh school is a place where we nurture our beautiful children. We practice our living cultures and foster pride in where we come from. We pull together as the ancestors of this land did. We work well together for our generation and those yet to come. Principal’s message by Pam Spooner 2016 Courtesy of SD 57 website Nusdeh Yoh Elementary PRINCIPALS Charlotte Henay Kathy Richardson Lisa Norman Pam Spooner VICE PRINCIPALS Kathy Richardson Stacey Wakabayashi Lisa Norman Pam Spooner Leona Prince FIRST STAFF Teaching Staff Sonya Rock Michael Hart D’Arcy Davis Nicholas Hadfield Leona Prince Dawn Doran Jasen Florell Cory Antrim Shannon Daines Dan Prenger Shelien Hadfield Kathy Mancini Marianne Brown Sadie Allen ENROLLMENT YEAR 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 GRADE # K-7 169 K-7 145 K-7 156 K-7 158 K-7 152 K-7 149 K-7 215 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Support Staff Angela Voldeng Jenny Mitchell Brenda Morris Trudy Hillen Chantel Peterson Julie Waychesen Joanne Sam Linda Cutler Teresa Lube Kristen McBurnie James Kematch Sophie Gillis Amber Browne Bonnie Bowe Danielle Good Sharon Lilley Yvonne Rodriguez Manjit Dhaliwal Nusdeh Yoh Elementary NUSDEH YOH The Sturgeon Code SCHOOL CODE OF CONDUCT The entire education community of Nusdeh Yoh shall abide by a code of conduct. The purpose is to promote a safe, secure, and supportive environment in which opportunites to grow, learn and teach are maximized and where everyone is treated with respect. To achieve this we shall: Show kindness and respect by: Avoiding name calling and other put down. Respecting personal property, be it ours or others. Do our best to learn as much as we can and help others to learn as much as they can. Set good examples by: Obeying school rules and encouraging others to do the same. Showing that we respect ourselves and each other. Showing that we value education. Work together to promote appropriate and helpful behavour by: Making decisions we can all support. Encouraging each other to do what is right. Being polite, respectful and courteous. Work together to discourage inappropriate and hurtful behaviour by: Respecting individual differences. Counteracting hurtful actions with helpful ones. Nusdeh Yoh Elementary Keeping the Beat—Jeremy Pahl teaches a song during a drumming class April 13, 2011 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Learning Commons 2017 Courtesy of SD 57 website Library Collection for Nusdeh Yoh All the resources from schools that were closing in 2010 were arranged on tables at the gym of the former Gladstone Elementary. Schools that were changing their composition and schools that were taking in the populations of closing schools had first choice of resources. I don’t recall the aboriginal school specifically requesting aboriginal resources from the closed school collections, but there were many available. On the other hand, the District Resource Centre itself did have a pretty strong First Nations/ Aboriginal collection to supplement our schools’ needs. I purposely built it for that reason. I remember the staff at the aboriginal school used to frequent the DRC regularly to purposely access that collection. Carrie Yuen-Lo 2017, former DRC Administrator Nusdeh Yoh Elementary ACTIVITIES The Parent Advisory Council sponsors bake sales and a Santa breakfast. Nusdeh Yoh student Jessica Frederick lets her hoop-flyer sail Wednesday morning, as part of the science portion of an Active Minds demonstration at the school. Active Minds is a series of summer camps held at UNBC. May 24-30, 2011 Courtesy of The Prince George Free Press Students Hike in the Woods, Say “Cheese” and Adopt A Tree Grade 6 and 7 students from Nusdeh Yoh participated enthusiastically in the Weaving Words Storytelling festival at CNC on Sept. 27. Aboriginal author Richard Van Camp came to the school on Sept. 28. Students, staff and parents gathered at the first bell for the month of September for a daily Walk and Talk activity. We’ve been building up stamina for a schoolwide hike to Ft. George Park for a BBQ and fun on Oct. 10. Making robots work at Technology Camp, November 23, 2011 Courtesy of The Prince Geroge Citizen October 3, 2012 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Special events have included an Anti-Bullying (Pink Shirt) Day, Inuit/Arctic Games day, a Potlatch for grades 4-7 and an Orange Shirt Day to honour residential school survivors. Nusdeh Yoh Elementary SPORTS Sports activities include swim lessons and inter-school basketball games. Open Ice Opening Doors For Students Coach Brian Toll talks to Harwin Community and Aboriginal Choice school students during a session of the Goals and Dreams Hockey Academy at the Kin Centre Wednesday morning. January 12, 2012 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Kids Basking in Success on the Slopes Nusdeh Yoh is a tight-knit school and Switch helps build connections between students and the community. “A lot of these kids never get out of their neighbourhood, and the school has a lot of support programs,” said Alison Thibodeau, Nusdeh Yoh’s community co-ordinator. … “Their confidence and self-esteem increases and they’re able to try new things,” she said. “They become more connected to the people they meet and it’s amazing how fast they take to it [snowboarding]. “It’s wonderful for them to have that feeling of success. It’s good [for them] to be outside. It’s healthy. It’s fun.” … “The idea behind it is two-fold,” said program co-ordinator Meredith Bogle. “To provide youth who have the opportunity to snowboard and local service providers to foster relationships with Northern Health, School District 57 and group homes.” Youth range in age from 11 to 18 years old and come from all different walks of life. “By the third week of the program, they’ve progressed so much and they’ve never skied before,” Bogle said. “There’s been unreal feedback. These kids face all sorts of different adversity and now they’re in a win-win situation.” … January 29, 2014 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Nusdeh Yoh Elementary Art at the Heart of First nations Gathering by Frank Peebles A hand-made cedar backdrop was built and painted especially for Nusdeh Yoh aboriginal choice- school. It was unveiled this past week as part of National Aboriginal Awareness Month activities. Art is an inroad to personal expression and fulfillment, and the kids at Nusdeh Yoh elementary school just got their inroads graded. At a special assembly to launch National Aboriginal Awareness Month, the Prince George school devoted to First Nations culture made a show out of art and what it means as a representation of culture and of self. The school enjoyed a live dance performance thanks to cultural teacher Rose Thomas, displays of painting, drawing, masks, and other visual elements, a multi-media show recalling the school year’s cultural awareness activities, and some oral presentation was also done - all by the students themselves. Teachers and other community consultants helped. The assembly was also a chance to unveil a set of other school assets that were recently obtained, all to do with artistic cultural conversation. The first to be pointed out was a set of four large cedar plaques mounted on the gymnasium wall, each one inlaid with expertly-painted figures in aboriginal style, representing the four main clans of the resident Lheidli T’enneh First Nation: caribou, frog, beaver and grouse. Other area First Nations have complementary clan systems and one of the main clans in the regional neighbourhood is the bear clan. The second new artifact unveiled at the arts assembly was a cedar podium carved and painted with the bear image. The third and most prominent unveiling was a giant cedar backdrop that now dominates the back wall of the school’s stage. It has matching cedar portable miniature walls on each side known in theatre parlance as “masking legs.” These are also painted with aboriginal images: trees, water, a moon with background frog, a canoe with upraised paddles, and the school’s mascot, the sturgeon. Most of the carving and design work on these three sets of wood-based art was done by west coast artist Bo Smith. He had help from school staffers like Leanne Ball and Pam Spooner. “I learned so much, in the creation of these,” said Spooner, principal at Nusdeh Yoh. “The energy is in the wood. I’ve heard artists say that before, but now that I’ve done this, I know what they mean. The wood really does have a spirit.” Another partner in the arts event was Prince George Secondary School. Nusdeh Yoh’s community co-ordinator Alison Thibodeau set up a 12-week art program whereby a group of Nusdeh Yoh girls travelled each Wednesday to PGSS after school to learn art techniques from the older students. It Nusdeh Yoh Elementary was a way to get familiar with PGSS for their later years, a way to develop peer mentorship, and a way to deepen the younger students’ artistic expression skills. The theme of the project was anti-violence. “Aboriginal females experience the most violence of any population segment in Canada,” Thibodeau told the assembly as the art from this initiative was unveiled. “These girls put a lot into their art and also thought a lot about moving forward and how to understand feelings.” One of those involved in the artistic pursuits of the students at the school is local singersongwriter-actor-artist Ivan Paquette. As a youth worker, among his many skills, he feels it his duty to provide leadership at the choice-school devoted to teaching the provincial curriculum but in ways that emphasize First Nations culture (non-aboriginal students are equally welcome at the school). “When I started my career in the arts, I was eight years old, right here in this same school,” said Paquette. It was called Carney Hill elementary school in those days. “Most of these kids are from a similar background, or they can easily understand it. When you have empathy, that is power. You can aspire to your dreams and you reach those goals better when you work together and understand each other. Art is transformative.” “The kids here all have to earn the same academic credentials as any kid in any school in the province, but they feel a pride and a welcome to be themselves when they walk in here, even if you aren’t aboriginal,” said Spooner. “Art gives such a personal and cultural connection for everyone. It represents you, and it lifts you.” There is more to come for Nusdeh Yoh students, staff, parents and supporters during this National Aboriginal Awareness Month. On Wednesday some of the students travel to PGSS to take in a live theatre production. On June 17, grades 4-7 will put on a potlatch. On June 19, music mixer Phil Roy will be at the school to demonstrate how to mix beats for hiphop songs and let some of the students give this skill a try. Then, on June 21, all walks of life in Canada are welcomed to express appreciation for aboriginal cultures here and around the world on the annual National Aboriginal Day. June 5, 2015 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Peden Hill Elementary 1956 to Pr esent 3500 Westwood Drive, Prince George MISSION STATEMENT To provide a safe environment where all students can learn. Respect, Responsibility, Ownership, Cooperation, Kindness, Safety HISTORY The first school consisted of two portable classrooms joined together on the edge of a farmer’s field. As the city expanded westward, the school increased in size. In 1961, four classrooms were added and major renovations were done in 1964 and 1967. The facility now has eight classrooms, a library, computer room, full size gym and a large playing field. Pe de n Hi l l El e me n t a ry 20 01 MURAL SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The distinctive mural painted on the front of the school began as a 1996-1997 provincial healthy schools initiative. The whole school brainstormed ideas for the mural. These ideas were turned over to artist Youngstin Lee who came up with the multicultural themes concept. Six students and a few volunteers helped the artist paint the mural during the 1997-1998 year. P e de n H il l Cr e st , Ea rl y 7 0 ’ s G o l d & G re e n L e tt e r i n g SD 57 Education Heritage Collection P roud of I t! B ookm ar k 2 000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Peden Hill Elementary ENROLLMENT Peden Hill’s population is diverse, with students from a range of ethnic and social backgrounds. In recent years, there have been large Indo-Canadian and Native populations attending the school. When the school opened, it had 64 students in Grades 1-6 and the enrollment reached a peak in1968 with 522 students in Grade 1-7. ENROLLMENT YEAR 1956 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2008 2009 GRADES # 1-6 64 1-6 173 1-6 388 1-7 475 K-7 368 K-7 268 K-7 282 K-7 220 K-7 292 K-7 258 K-7 198 K-7 184 K-7 194 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) P e de n Hi l l Pr i m ar y C l ass 19 65 M rs . Hill , t eac her SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Super star Ac hievem ent Button 200 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection P ede n Hill P rim a ry Cl as s 1 998 M r s. I sel mo re, t eac her SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Peden Hill Elementary R.O.C.K.S. Itʼs true! Peden Hill really R.O.C.K.S. The R.O.C.K.S acronym sums up the qualities Peden Hill expects from their students: Respect and Responsibility Ownership Cooperation Kindness Safety Students demonstrating these qualities are recognized for their contributions to a positive school tone through the “Gotcha” recognition program, and by regular special event rewards. Peden Hill School Website 2009 P e de n H il l S c i e n ce Fa ir P roj ect s 199 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Pe d e n Hi l l G y m 200 1 Ted Dany l uk, princ ipal SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Peden Hill Elementary STAFF Peden Hill has been designated as a community school for many years. The staff includes a community schools worker, an aboriginal education worker and an aboriginal teaching assistant to complement the teachers and other support staff. As an inner city school, a StrongStart Program, ESL/ESD program, school counselor and meals program are also part of the support services available. P R I N C I PAL S 1956-Present Mary Engstrom Bruno Shelest Merv Dyck John Norman John Turner Bet Siddall Jim Briggs John Zibin Dave Ross Ted Danyluk Dan Domes Gerry Sheanh Carmen Eberle Cindy Heitman M a ry Eng st r om , fir st pr incipa l Ci nd y Hei t ma n, c ur rent pr i nci pa l J une 1, 20 07 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Peden Hill Elementary P eden Hil l Staff, Ea rl y 1960 ’s Bru no Shel est, princ ipal SD 57 Education Heritage Collection P ed en Hill St a ff 200 9 C indy Heitm an, princ ipal SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Peden Hill Elementary S port s Day R i b bon G re e n w i t h G o l d L e tt e r i n g SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ches s Tea m 1990 M r. P ar ris h & M rs . H orv at h, coa ches SD 57 Education Heritage Collection S o cc e r Te am 199 0 M r. Reid , c oac h SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Peden Hill Elementary Memories The location of the school was in a field where a farmer kept his sheep. People used to say to me that Mary had a little lamb, but now she has a whole flock. Prince George was just a small city at that time (1956) and two people, Elmer Clark and Jimmy Cadden, ran the whole district from the school board office. Whatever changes in education, kids are still kids. They are the same as they always have been. Just a joy to be around. Mary Engstrom, first principal, June 1, 2007 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen PE D E N H I L L H I G H L I G H T S Excerpts from Online Newsletters Cross Country Running Thank you Mrs. Jones, Mr. Lapointe, Mrs. Myram and Ms. Naylor for helping to get cross country running up and going. Students will be running at Heritage Elementary on Sept. 23rd and at Peden Hill in our own stampede on Oct. 2nd. Way to go Panthers!! September 15, 2008 Magazine Fundraiser We will be starting our annual magazine subscription fundraiser. This fundraiser will from September 22nd to Oct 6th. Please watch for the package to come home on Monday. The class with the highest sales will be treated to a pizza lunch. Thank you for your support of our school and our fundraising efforts to make Peden Hill a great place for students to learn. September 15, 2008 Meal Order Forms A reminder from Mrs. Quiring that meal order forms are due back at the office. The menu is strictly health choices as decided by a nutritionist. October 1, 2008 Pineview Elementary 8515 Old Cariboo Highway, Prince George 1922 to Present Mission Statement The Pineview Team––students, school staff, parents, community––working together to develop happy, respectful, hard working, life long learners. Pineview School 1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History The first Pineview School, a one-room log structure, was built in 1922 on R. J. Blackburn’s farmland. It was located on what is now South Blackburn Road just north of Johnson Road. The first teacher mentioned in The Leader newspaper on January 4, 1923 was R. R. Gordon-Cumming. This building later became a hall for the Farmers' Institute. As the community felt that this school did not serve the students in the southern part of the district, another one-room school was built at the Pineview Community Hall site. This school operated until the late 1930’s. In 1927, the parents at the north end of the district applied to the Department of Education to authorize the building of another school to meet the requirements of their children. Inspector G. H. Gower advised them, however, that the northern part of the Pineview district could be amalgamated with the city school district and the children could be bussed into the Prince George Public School. The schoolhouse issue became a sore spot in the Pineview settlement and petitions were circulated from parents in both the north and south ends of the district. Pineview School 1920’s Courtesy of Sandra Goodkey Pineview Elementary During the 1940’s and 1950’s, there was no government school operating under the name of Pineview. Students in the area probably attended the Airport School, Thompson School or Tabor Creek School. In 1958, two portable classrooms were moved to the gymkhana grounds on Bendixon Road and became Pineview Elementary School. There was also a teacherage placed on the property. The buildings had electricity and oil heaters but no running water nor outhouses were provided. This school closed in 1964 and the students were bussed to Blackburn Elementary for two years and then went on afternoon shift with Buckhorn in 1966-1967. Finally, in 1967, a school was built at the present site on the Old Cariboo Highway. At first, it did not have a gym and two portables were on the school grounds. In 1971, a gym was added and, in 1975, more classrooms were added. Most Pineview students are bus students as the school serves a large rural area. enrollment y ear grade # 1958 1-6 51 1965 1-5 75 1970 1-7 260 1975 K-7 358 1980 K-7 311 1985 K-7 313 1990 K-7 273 1995 K-7 234 K-7 225 2000 2005 K-7 212 K-7 186 2010 Pineview Kindergarten Class 1989 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Pyjama Day 2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Pineview Elementary Principals Miss E. Wagner Mr. Born Mrs. Fraser Mr. Schroeder Rob Watson Don Wilkins Don Bassermann Chris Boyle John Deevy Dave Ross Maurice Vignal Art Brown Madeleine Crandell John McGladdery Jenny Rankin Anne Smith Joyce Willow Vice Principals Lee Bleecker Dave Friesen Janice Wharrie Rick DeBelser Jack Morrison Pineview Staff 1976 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Pineview Elementary Activities Christmas Play 1976 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Christmas Concert Program 1983 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Science Fair April 1989 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Children’s Festival Sheet Painting 1989 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Awards Day 1989 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Pineview Elementary Sports Day 1984 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Broad Jump 1937 Exploration Place P985.28.1 Volleyball 1988 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Wall Mural Pollution Solution 1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Pineview Elementary Memories Pineview School took part in a Heritage Project for the Blackburn Zone in 2000. Students and teachers recalled their memories of Pineview School. I taught in Pineview School from 1961-1964, grades 1-3. Students came to school by bus, walked or by car. We had Christmas Concerts, Plays, Drills, Singing and everyone participated fully. Sports Day included sack races, three-legged races, as well as broad jump, high jump and decorated bikes. We went on field trips, had special parties for Valentines Day, Halloween and so on. Parents helped with any driving as no busses took us on field trips. We, as teachers, made out report cards after school hours–we did have parent/teacher days which were always exciting, not only to the children but also to me. Students bought their own school supplies. We taught the 3 R’s and our classrooms were reasonably quiet. For bad or dangerous actions there was the STRAP! I really enjoyed my years as a teacher. Mrs. Corrie Poitras 2000, retired teacher I taught at Pineview School from 1975-1998 (23 years). I taught grades 2 to 4 and, for the last six years, I was in the Computer Room half-time. The Christmas Concerts were always special and I always had students create stained glass windows for the main entrance area, which was all glass at one time. The concerts were filled to over-flowing with parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters and friends. Halloween 1988 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The most vivid memory I have was that there was no fence around the school grounds and the stream at the back was always dammed up by the beavers. This was an excellent place for short field trips to study nature. We were also free to go down the hydro line for nature outings, winter snowshoeing and skiing. Greg Gobbi 2000, retired teacher Pineview Elementary I attended Pineview School from 1970-1977. I always remember when I was in grade 4 we studied Indians and we carved a totem pole out of a telephone pole. The pole was brought to our class and we had to draw on it and then chisel it all out. It stayed for years in the corner of the library. We also painted it and each thing we carved told a story. Dolly (Schinkel) Poitras 2000, former student I attended Pineview Elementary in 1966-1967. I was in grade 2 and my teacher was Mrs. Schmelzel. Although we attended Pineview School, the building did not actually exist. We were bussed to Buckhorn Elementary and attended during the afternoon shift. We were the first students to be picked up and the last to be dropped off by the bus. We sat in old-fashioned desks where the seats were attached to the desk behind you. You could fold the seat. You had to watch out for the mischievous classmate behind you who would attempt to flip up the seat just as you sat down. Totem Pole in Library 1987 Jan Erricson 2000, former student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I attended Pineview from 1973-1980 in grades 1-7. The school was as it is now, gym included. For a portion of the years, there were also two portables. They used to have four big tires, from machinery, in the playground that we got from PG Pulp where my dad worked. We also used to play a lot of tetherball. The tire swings are not there now nor the second set of swings or the wooden fort. I remember a bomb threat. We stood on Cummings Road and it was cold. I also remember sharing classes with Buckhorn School. They came to us at Pineview as I think they had a fire. I remember playing band in the staffroom and going on a trip to Barkerville in grade 7. Nicole (Achterberg) Pavich 2000, former student Recess on Swings 1989 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Pineview Elementary Life at Pineview was never dull, nor was it static. Four years passed in the blink of an eye and I loved everything about being part of this school community. There were always wonderful activities like the Chili Cook-off and Silent Auction, cross-country season, basketball and volleyball for the intermediate students, dances, leadership camp and the Christmas concert. When the snow fell we had lots of fun shovelling and shovelling and shovelling… and of course watching the students cross-country ski, slide down the hills and build their creations all over the grounds. Rural schools have a range of connotations – for me, the experience has always been both beneficial and rewarding. It has often been filled with laughter as well. Nowhere else do you have visiting Potbelly pigs come to beg for cookies at recess, or have to herd fire horses off the highway in a snowstorm (while wearing heels) before the busses arrive and there’s an accident. We had foxes, coyotes, rabbits, and barn owls. And one week, we had a mother moose with twins who were too little to jump over the fence. The conservation officers came to help out and, after much planning, the maintenance men came to cut a chain to allow the back gate to open. Unfortunately, to the eyes of the watching students, the huge bolt cutters looked like a gun over the shoulder of our worker. Screaming erupted throughout the school that the babies were in danger!!! It took us a few minutes to convince the students that all was well. We watched as the conservation officers patiently ‘herded’ the babies through the fence and back to mom. “Pineview Power” is a fitting motto for this school. There is a real power in the school: it’s the people. The students there were positive, enthusiastic, very friendly, and good citizens. The parents were the same. The PAC and SPC were excellent, dedicated and hardworking. The staff brought expertise and passion to their jobs which showed in the quality of their work, the wide variety of opportunities the children had, the support for every learner, and the significant progress students made. The people make this school a great place to be. Together, we worked well as a team and I am truly grateful for the wonderful experiences I had at Pineview, for the colleagues and parents with whom I worked and, of course, for the students who made coming to school so much fun every day! Anne Smith 2013, former principal Pinewood Elementary 1976 to Present 4140 Campbell Avenue, Prince George MOTTO Penguins are Cool! MISSION STATEMENT Our mission is to educate all the children to their maximum potential in an environment of encouragement, trust and mutual respect. PROPERTY PURCHASE PRICE $107,550 It was built to house the burgeoning population of the Pinewood area. DATE BUILT 1977 P i newood Ele ment a ry 20 00 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Pinewood is a very good example of a successful neighbourhood school. It was built in response to the formation of the neighbourhood of the same name and the needs of the many young families that moved there. ~ Ellen Norman, teacher DESIGN The school plan was similar to many schools of the day including Hart Highlands and Malaspina, but smaller. It did, however, have a full gym. LOCATION The school was set in a small, quiet, family-oriented subdivision close to Pine Centre, CNC and CN Centre. The setting is beautiful. The city children really enjoyed the fact that they had a forest in their school yard. Pinewood Elementary TRANSITION TO NEW SCHOOL Like many schools built at the time, Pinewood commenced operations sharing space with Westwood Elementary School until the Pinewood building was complete. ON THE MARCH Pinewood “shifted” with Westwood Elementary until May 4, 1977 when the school population marched to their new facilities. The march of the Pinewood Pioneers was a part of the ongoing transition of students moving into new buildings because of the population expansion at the time. P inewood P ioneers M ar ch to their New School 19 77 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Pinewood Elementary Loi s M a rr & El len Nor ma n, O peni ng Day M ay 4, 19 77 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection BARE NECESSITIES Although the building was complete, there were still many things needed to fill out an extremely “bare bones” equipment list. Especially bare was the school office which was in need of almost a complete complement of furniture, utilities and supplies. Although the new building had many desirable points like a good traffic flow, there was one slight oversight. A design goof had the windows six inches lower than planned. Consequently, classroom blackboards wound up covering that much of the view. DIVERSITY & INCLUSIVENESS The population of the school was diverse in economics, ethnicity and culture. The staff promoted this aspect by involving the students in a wide variety of curricular and extra-curricular activities and events. The staff and students were enthusiastically supported by a strong and involved parent group. The school continues to serve the neighbourhood in an inclusive and welcoming manner. Pinewood Elementary Firs t Cl as s 19 76- 77 Wil l W iens, teac her SD 57 Education Heritage Collection ENROLLM E N T YEAR 1976 180 1977 234 1978 260 1979 274 1980 276 1981 265 1982 265 1983 254 1984 250 1985 244 1986 238 YEAR 1987 212 1988 194 1989 189 1990 192 1991 201 1992 204 1993 182 1994 175 1995 176 1996 177 1997 175 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) YEAR 1998 173 1999 194 2000 200 2001 191 2002 194 2003 205 2004 208 2005 189 2006 204 2007 201 2008 195 2009 174 Original K-7 Enrollment: 180 Peak (1979): 274 Enrollment in 2004: 208 Pinewood Elementary T he Or i gi na l St aff of P i newoo d 19 76- 77 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection O R I G I N A L STAFF PRI N C I PAL S 1976 -2010 Larry Finden Bill Voth Ken Todd Dave Ross Lynne Boomhower Lee Bleecker Lynda Stoppler Deb Strasdin Larry Finden First Principal Colin Love Lorne Brown Agnes Holeczi Hazel Stevens Wil Wiens Cheryl McMullen Bev Bartlett Donna MacLeod Laura Turner Ellen Norman Lois Marr Pinewood Elementary ACTIVITIES FOR PARENTS A busy and effective PAC/CA group Many special days Walks on Monday and Friday mornings Puzzles on the puzzle wall DEAR OLD GOLDEN RULE DAYS As part of a Heritage Day project, Grade 7 students from Pinewood Elementary contacted some famous Canadians by mail and asked them what it was like when they went to school. Their teacher, Harvey Shogren, says he suggested some of the people they might like to write to but the final choice was up to them. Former NDP leader Dave Barrett said he doesn’t think strapping, which was abolished during his term as premier, will ever be brought back to BC schools. He was EXTRA-CURRICULAR The Dusty Sneakers Club a fitness program for all Pinewood Reading Rewards Program read to earn books Special Projects Club after school enrichment Chess Club Arts and Science Fair Performance opportunities each year writing to Alaina Devore and added: “We hope your generation is wiser than we have been when it comes to such things as caring for our world and the people in it.” Education Minister Jack Heinrich wrote back to Kristy Zurowski and said he attended two school where grades 1 to 6 were taught in one room and there were three to sixteen students in the classroom. He contrasts his days in a one-room school with modern schools containing libraries and gymnasiums but didn’t explain where he went to school. To Alaina Devore’s letter asking for his views on disarmament, Prime Minister Brian Mulroney replied lasting peace and security remains a priority for his government. His wife, Mila Mulroney, wrote to Renee LeBeau describing her busy life as the wife of the Prime Minister. Renee was surprised to receive a Christmas card from her. CTV weatherman Norm Grohman told Ken Nicols he thought homework was a good idea. March 8, 1985 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Polaris Montessori Elementary 2015 to Present 7005 Gladstone Drive, Prince George “Freedom with responsibility” School Beliefs At Polaris Montessori we believe in... Respect for all living things, and everything in our learning environment Caring and trusting in our friends Trying our best even if it gets hard Being safe everywhere Having freedom with responsibility These beliefs were adopted through a whole school community participation in the fall of 2014. The beliefs were created and worded by students, with staff support, and voted on by both staff and students. Polaris Montessori Elementary School 2017 Courtesy of Tiiu Noukas, retired teacher Polaris Montessori Elementary History The Highglen school burned down on April 22, 2013 and the students and staff were moved into the more-or-less vacant Gladstone Elementary School building. The School District #57 Education Heritage Collection, that had been in one part of the Gladstone School, was subsequently relocated to the annex of École Lac des Bois. After unsuccessful attempts to get Highglen Elementary rebuilt, the Montessori community and the SD 57 Board of School Trustees decided that the Gladstone site was workable. However, there was a need to create a new identity plus improve the facility. The location in the College Heights area had resulted in falling enrollment but as families felt secure about the future of the school the numbers improved. Polaris Montessori is the name that was chosen in 2015 to signal the new beginning. By 2016 the school had reached capacity and had a waiting list for the 2017-18 school year. PRINCIPALS Karin Paterson Tim Yule FIRST STAFF Heather Andrews Darla Banks Patty Brandner Janice Butchart Sara Crofts Jody Hoffman Joseph Jeffrey Laurie King Nancie Miners Elisa Drake Shelby Strasdin Kathleen Dunbar Steven Parry Serenity Johnson Michelle Thompson Hattie Quiring Wendy Dysart Hallie Pisiak Dayna Smith Debbie Lee Candice French Kristen McBurnie Polaris Montessori Elementary Photo of wall display 2017 Courtesy of Tiiu Noukas, retired teacher ENROLLMENT YEAR 2015 2016 GRADE # K-7 192 K-7 300 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Stunning new skylight 2017 Courtesy of Tiiu Noukas, retired teacher Renovation plans were drawn up by Chernoff Thompson Architects North in 2016. Improvements included foundation work, a new gym floor, heating and ventilation. The lobby was upgraded and enhanced with a large skylight. The office was moved and the school received extensive refurbishment including a demonstration classroom. Polaris Montessori Elementary Two Polaris students having a break after question time in the Red Cedar “Battle Of The Books” competition, 2017. Polaris was the host school for the school district. Courtesy of Tiiu Noukas, retired teacher Meg Peters, 12, is making her Theatre North West debut in A Christmas Carol. “She has performed in school plays at Malaspina elementary school and Polaris Montessori elementary school where this past year she and classmate Danielle Garner wrote their own script as well as did the work to perform.” November 19, 2015 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen ACTIVITIES Casino Night Book Fair Red Cedar Terry Fox Run Talent Showcase Socktober School trips Fall Fair Drama Club Pink Shirt Day Poinsettia Fundraiser PAC Family Dances Central Interior Science Exhibition Polaris Montessori Elementary Did You Know? M ontessori students participated in a Canada-wide walk (November, 2013) to raise awareness for the UN Rights of the Child Day. Intermediate students, the PGSS Montessori high school members and preschoolers from the Montessori Early Learning Centre walked from Knox United Church to the Civic Centre where students and dignitaries presented speeches, displayed flags from around the world and sang songs of peace. P olaris Montessori was one of the local schools to benefit from the 2016 Raise–A– Reader Campaign that raised funds to support local early literacy efforts in Prince George. It will get a grant to offset costs of the school’s partnership with the REAPS salmon spawning project. The school will host a talk with local author Clayton Gauthier and each Kindergarten to grade 2 student will get a copy of his book called “The Salmon Run”. S tephanie Pullman, an instructor with over 20 years of experience in Montessori environments, from early childhood to upper elementary, came to Polaris in May 2017, from Long Beach, CA, to help train the teachers. Parents were invited to an evening session demonstrating how to incorporate an artistic perspective to all aspects of the curriculum. Stephanie focused on the artist, Georgia O’Keeffe, as a way of demonstrating how this would be done. Child-minding was provided by PGSS students. Prince George Montessori Education Society fundraiser 2017 Courtesy of SD 57 website Polaris Montessori Elementary Mailbox: Your Letters Community Steps Up for Highglen Library Since the fire that Highglen Montessori suffered in April 2013, the support from the community to help us rebuild has been phenomenal. As the Learning Commons teacher at Highglen Montessori, part of my job is to oversee the library, and this has meant a chance to build a collection from scratch. It is gratifying to know that our community still understands the important role libraries play in the 21st century as a place for leadership in the school community to shine. I cannot thank Tanya and the Coles Books team and the community for raising money for us, so that, on Tuesday December 9th, I was able to take a second group of students down to Coles Books in the mall to spend the money they had fundraised for us. It was utterly fantastic to have the kids be able to choose books in this way. Another huge asset in our rebuilding has been Books & Co. Owen and his staff have bent over backwards to help get us what we needed to ensure that our library was back to what it needed to be. The money in the fire fund at Books & Co. was equally valuable in securing books early on in the rebuild. Finally, the last big thanks goes out to the School District and especially the District Learning Commons for working all summer long last year to get us books ready for September, processing literally thousands of books on top of their regular job throughout the 2013-2014 school year. The purchasing department worked with them to ensure we had the autonomy to build the collection as we needed it, rather than just buying a pre-packaged library. That would have been easier, but it would have been a disservice to the kids. I am eternally grateful that they chose not to do it that way. Thank you also to the Public Library and the Prince George Citizen for awarding us a Raise-aReader grant that allowed us to build up a strong collection of First Nations content and puppets for Readers’ Theatre to supplement what we had coming in already. Truly Highglen has been blessed by the generosity of spirit that the Prince George community has shown us. Thank you. Joseph Jeffery Learning Commons Teacher Highglen Montessori Elementary School & District Learning Commons Liaison December 12, 2014 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Quinson Elementary 251 South Ogilvie Street, Prince George 1962 to Pr esent MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Quinson Elementary Schoolʼs staff, parents and students is to create a safe and healthy environment, which supports opportunities for students to grow academically and personally, to develop their creativity and increase their awareness of and respect for different cultures. …to be the best that we can be! Q u i n s o n El e me n ta ry 19 80 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY Quinson opened in 1962, with 203 students in 6 rooms. Dezell Construction was awarded the contract for $97,000. The architect was Trelle Morrow. In 1963, a 2-room addition was built and, in 1965, an 8-room addition, a library and a gymnasium were added. In 1966-1967, Quinson was on shift with Spruceland and Highland schools, while those buildings were being completed. The school was constantly overcrowded as it was the only school north of the bypass for several years. Over 40 students filled each class in these early years. Other additions were made to the school in 1970 and 1980. In 2002, some students from Highland Elementary moved to Quinson when Highland school closed. The octagon-shaped rooms now house 13 divisions and about 250 students from Kindergarten to Grade 7. Major renovations, around 2009, have included new stucco refinishing, roof replacement, and a new boiler heating system. Quinson Elementary ENROLLME N T YEAR 1962 1966 1971 1976 1981 1986 1991 1996 2001 2005 2008 2009 GRADES # 1-7 203 1-7 761 1-7 623 K-7 500 K-7 399 K-7 380 K-7 356 K-7 292 K-7 254 K-7 314 K-7 251 K-7 203 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Quins on G ra de 1 R eading C la ss 19 60s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection QUINSON GROUP SEEKS SOLUTION TO SHIFTING Quinson parents want action – or, at least, some answers. They want action that will speed the exit of shift classes at Quinson Elementary School. And if that action isn’t forthcoming, they want to know why. Quinson Parent-Teacher Association has struck a committee to keep an eye on the progress of Highland subdivision’s new 16 room school. The committee headed by Henry Vogt, also will attempt to find other solutions to end shifting. Until May 15, Quinson children shared their school on a shift basis with pupils from Spruceland subdivision. The school is still overcrowded because children from Highland Subdivision must attend Quinson School until their own school is completed… Quinson PTA presented a petition to the school board on Highland’s progress this month when a delegation from the PTA attended a Board meeting. A spokesman from the delegation said members were unsatisfied with “the vague and general answers given by the school board.” May 26, 1967 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Quinson Elementary Memories My First Yea at Quinson Elementary Schl I remember coming to the school in September 1963 to set up my grade 1-2 classroom at the end of the east-west wing. The school stood in the middle of a clearing and there were no houses in the immediate vicinity. There were no streetlights. I decided to work late one night and when I left to go home it was pitch dark and I had no flashlight! No more late evening work after that! The construction of my room was not completely finished when the school opened in September. The heating unit was not in place on the first day. There was a large opening at the back of the room covered with plastic and it was a little chilly on those fall mornings! There was much sawing and drilling going on while we tried to carry on our lessons. Q u i n so n Gr ad e 1- 2 Cl a ss 1964 Mi s s M . Hal l , t e a ch e r The school kept growing as Spruceland and Highland Courtesy of Marguerite MacKenzie (Hall) subdivisions were being developed, and Quinson was the only school west of the bypass. A total reorganization of classes took place and by the end of May 1964, I had 45 children in my class and could not fit one more in. In the next year, 1964-1965, there were 11 divisions in 8 classrooms and 3 portables. The following year, there were 21 divisions filling a new 8-room addition, with a gym and a library plus the 3 portables. By the end of the year, 4 divisions were on shift in 2 of the portables. I taught grade two at Quinson until the end of April, 1966, when I took maternity leave and left teaching for the next 4 years. But I’ll never forget the experience of teaching in a new school that grew from 7 to 21 divisions in 3 years! Marguerite MacKenzie, retired teacher Quinson Elementary PR INC IPALS Stan Stockley Ed Swaren Frank Hamilton John Suderman John Norman Merv Dyck Annette Isbester Rusty Rustemeyer Donna Dojack Ted Danyluk Lynda Stoppler Quins on Staff 196 4 Courtesy of Marguerite MacKenzie (Hall) VICE-PRIN C I PA L S Lyle Fleming Leigh Erwin Jack Morrison Lorraine Burns Frank Brown Kerry Bergeron Carol Brain Al Hiebert Luc St. Denis Melissa Yurkowski Kathy Dorval Donna Preston Ross Hett Liana Grant Quins on Staff 2 001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Quinson Elementary While academic achievement is of prime importance, sports and extra curricular activities have also been a focus at Quinson. Teams and individual students are provided with many opportunities to excel. Public music and drama productions highlight the fine arts abilities of Quinson students. The original school logo was a dinosaur but was recently changed to the Quinson “Quasars”. St u de n t Ac ti v i ti e s Ba n n e r 19 92 b y Scot t Sc hepens SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Dinosa ur B anner 199 6 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection G i rl s B as ket ba l l T ea m 1985 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection F i rs t Te r ry F o x R u n 199 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Quinson Elementary Com puter Cl ub 1992 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Scienc e Fa ir 1 986 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Fun Night 19 88 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection G ra de 7 M t. R o b so n T ri p 19 98 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Quinson Elementary Did you Know? Q UINSON HAS BEEN THE HOME OF A DISTRICT SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES AREA SUPPORT TEAM FOR SEVERAL YEARS. THERE ARE FOUR SUPPORT TEAMS IN THE SCHOOL DISTRICT COMPOSED OF SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGISTS, SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS, SCHOOL SOCIAL WORKERS AND ELEMENTARY COUNSELLORS. THEY WORK COLLABORATIVELY WITH SCHOOLS, PARENTS AND COMMUNITY AGENCIES TO PROVIDE ASSESSMENT, INTERVENTION AND PREVENTION PROGRAMS, AND STRATEGIES TO SUPPORT STUDENTS WITH LEARNING AND BEHAVIORAL DIFFICULTIES. I N THE 1969-1970 SCHOOL YEAR, THE QUINSON SCHOOL CHOIR RECORDED A 45RPM RECORD OF THE SONG PRINCE GEORGE IS OUR TOWN. THE SONG WAS WRITTEN BY INN OF THE NORTH PIANO PLAYER, BRUCE STRACHAN AND THE CHOIR WAS CONDUCTED BY MUSIC TEACHER, HOPE RODGER. THE PRINCE GEORGE COMMUNITY BAND CONDUCTED BY W.M. POLFENIER ACCOMPANIED THE QUINSON CHOIR WHICH WAS COMPOSED OF OVER 100 STUDENTS FROM GR. 4 – 7. OVER 500 COPIES OF THE RECORDING WERE PRODUCED AND IT EVEN AIRED ON THE LOCAL RADIO, CKPG. I N 2006, THE QUINSON SENIOR CHOIR, DIRECTED BY CAROLYN DUERKSEN, WON THE GOLD MEDAL AT THE NATIONAL MUCho ir P erfo rm ing 2006 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen SICFEST CANADA COMPETITION IN OTTAWA. THE PARENTSʼ ADVISORY COUNCIL, THE CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE AND OTHERS IN THE COMMUNITY RAISED OVER $90,000 TO SEND THE GROUP TO OTTAWA. THE CHOIR HELD A CONCERT AT THE PRINCE GEORGE PLAYHOUSE TO RAISE FUNDS FOR THE TRIP. MEMBERS OF THE 1970 QUINSON CHOIR HELD A REUNION AND PERFORMED AT THIS EVENT. Ron Brent / Connaught Elementary 1946 to Pr esent 1401 17th Avenue, Prince George MISSION STATEMENT Ron Br ent Scho ol 2 001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection To educate students to be self-confident, responsible and respectful citizens who have the education and motivation of continued individual success and to have the ability to make a positive contribution to society. Through a set of consistent standards, a comprehensive network of support and constant academic assessment, we will continually hold all students accountable. We will provide engaging activities for the students in the classroom, in the school as well as in the community. The entire staff pledges itself to these student outcomes. Connaught Hill Elementary 1915-1951 The first Connaught School was a two-room high school built in 1915 at Queensway and 15th Avenue, near the base of the Connaught Hill Park. In the years between 1915 and 1951 this building had a varied life, which reflected the growth of the city of Prince George with its booms and depressions. It was a high school, an elementary school and, during the flu epidemic, even a hospital. There were also times that the building was vacant. Connaught Hill Elementary opened as a oneroom school in February of 1946 but another room was added later that year. It accommodated pupils in Grades 4, 5, and 6 who lived east of George Street and in the Millar Addition. In 1949, this school was enlarged to seven classrooms. A fire destroyed Connaught Hill Elementary in November 1951. Conna ug ht Hill El em ent ar y S chool 19 49 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ron Brent / Connaught Elementary Connaught Elementary 1953-1978 After the fire, classes were housed in KGV and in the annex to the high school. In the 1952-1953 school term, the annex included ten divisions with only two classrooms of regular size. The other eight rooms were half-sized created by partitioning regular classrooms. The school trustees purchased land at the corner of 17th and Pine Street and made plans for an 18-classroom school with a stage, an activity room, and many modern facilities and equipment. The new Connaught Elementary was open for classes in 1953. Sc hool Cr est 1 950’ s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Conna ug ht El ement a ry Sc hool 195 3 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ray Williston, Minister of Education, officially opened the school, on May 11, 1954. Mr. Williston had previously been a high school Principal and Inspector of Schools in the Prince George School District. O f f i c i al O p e n i n g Co n n au g h t El e m e n ta ry Sc h o o l 19 54 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ron Brent / Connaught Elementary SN A P S H O T S F R O M T H E 5 0 ’ S In the early years, sports such as gymnastics, badminton, volleyball, beatball, hockey, softball and handball were popular. Extra-curricular clubs such as majorettes, art, library, square dance, safety patrol, big sister and big brother, and choir were sponsored by many of the teachers and parents at Connaught Elementary. M i xe d Gi r ls & Bo y s So f t ba ll T e a m 1 950 ’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection M ajo rettes 1 950 ’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The majorettes were a featured attraction at school functions, community events and parades. The group consisted of grade 5 and 6 girls. The PTA helped provide the uniforms. Ron Brent / Connaught Elementary Co nnaug ht El em entary C hoir 1950 ’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection St a ffroom , Ea rl y1 950 ’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection C onnaug ht El em entar y C res t 196 0’s D e s i gn e d b y To m W h e e le r , p r i n c ip a l SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ron Brent / Connaught Elementary Memories om e 1960’s Every year at the annual Christmas staff party it was the custom for one male teacher to play the part of Santa Claus. After a catered or potluck dinner, Santa, dressed in the mandatory red suit, would arrive carrying a bag of gifts to be distributed one at a time as each recipient’s name was called. During his years as principal at Connaught, Tom Wheeler liked to take on the Santa role himself. For the Christmas party in 1961, the vice principal, Al Reay, decided to challenge Tom’s usurping of the Santa Claus act. That night, as usual, Tom came ho-ho-ho-ing into the room. Unbeknownst to him and right behind him, tiptoeing along, was someone else also dressed in a Santa Claus costume! Everyone except Tom could see what was happening and gales of laughter broke out. When he discovered what was going on, the original Santa was not particularly pleased. The rest of us, however, remembered for a long time the ‘year of the two Santas!’ Connaught Elementary was on shift with C onna ught E lem ent ar y St aff 1 965 -196 6 the future Carney Hill Elementary from SD 57 Education Heritage Collection September 1966 to March 1968. All the students kept their supplies in apple boxes, which they carried in and out of the classroom each day. When the shift classes finally came to an end, the event was celebrated with the burning of the apple boxes at a huge bonfire in the lower field of the school grounds. In her capacity as teacher-librarian, Florence Willson was a staff member of Connaught Elementary from 1962-1967. She expanded the role of the library in the school by working with classroom teachers to involve them in cooperative learning and research. In addition to her school duties, Mrs. Willson began training new teacher-librarians and compiled a guide for those new to the position. Later, as library coordinator in the district, 1970-1981, she revamped the District Resource Centre and developed a system whereby all schools in the district, rural as well as city, received twice-weekly deliveries of materials from the Centre. Pat (Frank) Anderson, retired teacher, 2007 Ron Brent / Connaught Elementary Ron Brent Elementary 1978 to Pr esent SCHOOL RENAMED 1970’S Ron Brent taught for 28 years at Connaught Elementary school before his untimely death. He was well liked and respected. On October 2, 1978, Connaught Elementary was renamed Ron Brent Elementary in memory of him. R o n Br e n t , te a ch e r School Website R e f u r b is h e d E x t e ri o r 2 0 0 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection RENOVATIONS IN THE 1990’S The school underwent massive renovations in the 1998-1999 year. Students were accommodated at Seymour Elementary (Grades 1- 4) and Harwin Elementary (Grades 5 -7) during the renovation. Ron Brent school was officially reopened on October 15, 1999. Ron Brent / Connaught Elementary C omput er R oom 200 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Offic ial Opening P rog ra m 1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ron Brent / Connaught Elementary Ron Brent offers a wide range of programs focusing on academic achievement and the development of strong positive social skills. Academic initiatives are complemented by many extra and co-curricular activities in areas such as sports, arts and crafts, peer helping, choir, aboriginal dancing, chess and computers. Ron Brent is designated a community school. It provides a comprehensive array of support services and staff, including a Strong Start program, ESL/ESD program, a playground program, school counselor, youth care worker, aboriginal education worker, support teachers and a community worker, as well as breakfast and lunch programs. Faces of Hope is a new feature wall as you enter the school, which has self portraits painted by intermediate students in the school. The wall was inspired by thirteen Grade 7 girls visiting the Two Rivers Art Gallery to see Betty Kovacic’s portraits displayed in the Roomful of Missing Women exhibition in 2007. Every year, new intermediate students to the school add their portrait to the wall. The wall has come to epitomize the hope and commitment of the staff and students. 11 th An n u a l B at t le o f t h e Bo o ks 20 09 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Fo yer & Offi c e 20 01 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Guest speakers are also invited into classrooms to inspire children to follow their dreams, to have hopes and wishes that will come true. Ron Brent / Connaught Elementary ENROLLMENT YEAR 1950 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2008 2009 GRADES 1-6 1-6 1-6 1-7 1-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 # 210 672 586 695 534 440 387 274 269 292 207 227 225 224 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) DEMOGRAPHICS C onnaug ht El em entar y C l as s 19 50’ s Ag n e s W al t e rs , te a ch e r The population of the school was as high as 700 students in the early 1960’s. The last few years, however, the population has dropped to the 200 -250 range. Ron Brent Elementary presently enrolls a diverse cross-section of students from the Connaught-Millar Addition areas of the city. There is a high percentage of aboriginal children attending the school. All students are within walking distance of the school. SD 57 Education Heritage Collection R on Br ent El ement a ry Cl a ss 199 5 M rs. Fo rb es, teac her SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Ron Brent / Connaught Elementary PRINCIPALS 1952 - 2010 Phil McGregor Dave Eldred Tom Wheeler Will Wiens Ed Swaren C o n n a u g h t S c h o o l S t a f f 1 9 5 4 - 1 9 5 5 John Suderman SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Lyle Fleming Rob Griffiths John Deevy VICE-PRINCIPALS Don Wilkins 1961 - 2010 Rob McIntosh Allan Reay Tony Sweet Ed Swaren Val Coopersmith Mary Engstrom Sue Sedgwick Robert Lindsay Nancy Armstrong Rob Howardson Bruce Ballantyne Rick DeBelser Tony Sweet Val Coopersmith Carol Brain Kathie Hilder Donna Preston Sue Sedgwick Nancy Armstrong Deb Strasdin Norman Kidwell Ron Bren t S chool St a ff 199 2 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Southridge Elementary 1993 to Pr esent 7300 Southridge Avenue, Prince George MISSION STATEMENT At Southridge, the focus is on the learner. Our ultimate goal is to provide the best possible learning opportunities for each student with a respectful, safe and caring environment. HISTORY Southridge Elementary School was built during 1993-1994 at a cost of $4.9 million. Carlberg, Jackson, Partners were the architects and the construction company was Witt Construction. The Southridge students attended Gladstone Elementary during the fall of 1993 until their school was finished in March 1994. The first principal was Brian Pepper. Sout hri d ge E lem ent a ry 199 4 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The school was originally built to accommodate 250 students. A four-classroom $846,372 expansion was built by Viking Construction in 2000–2001 to bring the school’s capacity to 350 students and replace three portables. The enrollment continued to expand but catchment areas were changed to control further growth. One portable is still in use. Sout hri d ge E lem ent a ry 199 4 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Southridge Elementary ENROLLM E N T YEAR 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 GRADES K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 1-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 # 191 227 276 301 317 326 338 354 360 392 402 397 385 390 375 370 350 359 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) PRINCIPALS Brian Pepper John McGladdery & Hank Bugara Janice Wharrie Frances Roch Jennifer Rankin Key b oar ding 199 3 Bria n P epper, princ ipal SD 57 Education Heritage Collection VICE PRINCIPALS Rob Larson Debbie Strasdin Bruce Walkey Kelly Johansen Dan Watt Tabatha Grigg Southridge Elementary FIRST STAFF Southr idg e Sc hool Staff 1 994 School Yearbook 1993-1994 Southr idg e Sc hool Staff 2 008 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Sout hri d ge G rad e 3 C l as s, Di v. 9 2012 Mr s. Zo ll i , t e a ch e r SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Tom Makowsky Brenda (Bosscha) Anderson Al Olson Cheryl Norbraten Julie Fisher Robin Johnson Sue Lefebvre Kathy Millard Janis Chappell Sandy Reid Gail Walraven Brian Pepper (principal) Doreen Kerr (secretary) Sharon Engelsjord (library clerk) Mrs. Thorpe (teacher’s aide) Southridge Elementary SPARK S P A R K Be Safe Be Positive Achieve Be Respectful WITS W I T S Walk Away Ignore Talk It Out Seek Help Be Kind SPARK is an acronym that stands for Safety, Positive Attitude, Achievement, Respect and Kindness. It is the school’s CODE OF CONDUCT. Each week, the school focuses on a different part of the Code of Conduct. Students who demonstrate SPARK qualities are rewarded with SPARK tickets that allow them to participate in classroom draws for prizes. Eight theme posters have been developed to show ways to complete SPARK goals. A sample poster appears below. WITS is an acronym that suggests how to cope with bullying. Southridge School Website 2012 Southridge Elementary During the 1990’s, the British Columbia Ministry of Education engaged in an accreditation program for schools in the province. The staff of each school in a district worked on an internal evaluation and then an external team of teachers and administrators from other school districts in the province came into the school to review the school’s progress. Part of the internal review was a parent survey. SOUTHRIDGE PARENT SURVEY October 30, 1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Southridge Elementary S C H O O L AC T I V I T I E S Southridge has had many clubs, sports, special events and cultural activities taking place throughout each year. The photographs used in these sections have been provided courtesy of Sharon Engelsjord, Computer/Library Clerk. Che ss Cl ub 2001 School Newsletter February 14, 2001 Red C eda r Rea ding Cl ub 201 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Q ui z Me ! T e a m 2010 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection S cienc e Fa ir 20 01 School Newsletter February 14, 2001 He r i ta g e F ai r 20 02 School Newsletter May 3, 2002 Southridge Elementary A STUDENT LEADERSHIP CLUB or student council has planned and implemented school events, special fun days, noon hour clubs and a playground program for younger students at lunchtime. Ha ll oween 2 008 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Wac ky Ha ir Da y 200 8 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Fun D ay 200 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Cr az y Hat Da y 201 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection V a le n ti n e Dan c e 20 02 School Newsletter February 13, 2002 Tal ent Show School Newsletter March 11, 2003 Southridge Elementary S P O RTS Cr os s C ountry Runner s 20 05 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection G i rl s Vo ll ey ba ll T eam 2 011 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Boy s Bas ketb al l Tea m 201 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection S ta f f & St u de n t V o ll e y ba l l G a me School Newsletter January 11, 2012 FI N E A RT S A C T I V I T I E S Sp Southridge Elementary 20 1 1 c e r t Collection n o C ge rin g Herita SD 57 tion Educa Chr istm as Conc ert 2 011 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Band Students School Newsletter February 22, 2012 Southridge Elementary Did You Know? A NARROW ENTRANCE TO THE SCHOOL GROUNDS, OFF SOUTHRIDGE AVENUE, NECESSITATED THE CREATION OF A SINGLE LANE TRAFFIC “STOP AND DROP LOOP” WITH GATES AT THE ENTRANCE AND EXIT AND SIDEWALKS FOR WALKING SAFETY. “Stop & Drop” Loop Di a gr am School Website 2012 S OUTHRIDGE HAS HAD ITS OWN SCHOOL RECYCLING PROGRAM FOR SEVERAL YEARS. FUNDS FROM THE PROGRAM HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO MANY STUDENT ACTIVITIES. School Newsletter October 19, 2011 Springwood Elementary 4600 Zral Road, Prince George 1975-2010 Reopened 2017 “Educating for Excellence” Mission Statement Springwood will provide a safe, supportive learning environment assisting students to achieve academic, emotional, social, aesthetic and physical growth while encouraging the involvement of the entire school community. Springwood Elementary 1983 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History Springwood Elementary was located in the Hart area of Prince George. The original school was made up of joined portable units consisting of four classrooms, an office, library and staff room and it opened in the spring of 1975. The school initially was called Wildwood II and was intended to be a temporary solution to accommodate an overflow from Wildwood Elementary. Wildwood’s principal, Geoff Eacott, was in charge of the school that housed students from grades 1 to 3. In the fall of 1975 the school was separated from Wildwood and Annette Isbester became the principal of the newly named Springwood Elementary. The following year a portable classroom and grade 4 students were added. In 1977 Kindergarten and grade 5 also became part of Springwood. In April 1983 students and staff moved into a new nine-classroom school. Grade 6 students were added in the fall of 1983 and grade 7 students the year after that. In the fall of 2000 the grade 6 and 7 students were sent to the newly created Heather Park Middle School. Springwood once again became a ‘teddy bear’ school. In 2002 Wildwood Elementary was closed and many of their students and staff became part of Springwood. In June 2010 Springwood, along with many other schools in the Hart area, was closed and students were sent to the newly reconfigured Heather Park Elementary School. Springwood held a special closing celebration on June 10, 2010 in the school gymnasium with a slide show, guestbook and a chance for everyone to sign their name on the gymnasium wall. Springwood Elementary Demographic The students who attended Springwood Elementary originated from urban and semi-rural areas with the majority of the students bussed to the school. The Springwood catchment area went as far as “Garvin’s Canyon” on Chief Lake Road, north to the boundary of the Salmon Valley catchment area, Martin Road to the south and Highway 97 the boundary to the east. ENROLLMENT YEAR 1975 1979 1983 1987 1991 1995 1999 2004 2009 GRADE # 1-3 82 K-5 171 K-6 227 K-7 230 K-7 221 K-7 271 K-7 262 K-5 200 K-5 137 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Springwood class photo 1974-1975 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection PRINCIPALS Geoff Eacott Annette Isbester Kelly LaVoie Dwayne (Rusty) Rustemeyer Gerry Sheanh Paul Raines Rob Howardson Rob Larson Kathy Dorval FIRST STAFF Geoff Eacott Annette Isbester Jo-Anne Davies Wendy Baker Marilyn McAlpine Elenora Cagliotti Springwood Elementary staff 1975 Geoff Eacott, principal SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Springwood Elementary Did You Know? I n 1981-1982, the Parent Advisory Council was successful in petitioning the school district for an extra portable so that there would be an indoor space for having gym class. That same year there was an influx of students in grade 1 and they had to have their classroom in that portable. S S T pringwood had a lot of groundwater after they built the new school and the water behind the school in the forested area was known as ‘soaker city’. pringwood received its first Apple IIE in 1983 and replaced the Apple IIE computer lab in 2003-2004. he Parent Advisory Council was always very involved in fundraising and hosting events enjoyed by the whole community. These included the ‘welcome back pancake breakfasts’ every September, supporting the Springwood Community Association Bursary, funding Springwood to become the first elementary school to have a photography lab in 1986 as well as activities such as casinos, bingos, dances and fun fairs. I n 1997, teacher Ian King sponsored and created, with each of the grade 7 students, a mural as “a remembrance to the school”. The PAC donated money for the materials. Toy Bingo 2005 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection This began a tradition that lasted until the school was closed in 2010. Ian King retired in June 2006 and returned the following year to help with the mural. In 2008 two parents, Joanne Hirvi and Anne Caron, helped students create the mural. In 2009 Joanne Hirvi helped again along with parent Mrs. McCray and Joanne Hirvi also helped in 2010. These murals were hung both inside the school and on the outside walls. Each mural represented a story about the year and all the students that worked on the mural had their names or initials included in the mural. One mural was selected to hang in Heather Park Elementary School after Springwood Elementary was closed. Springwood mural 1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Springwood mural 2010 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Springwood Elementary TIME CAPSULES The students and staff of Springwood Elementary compiled items for a time capsule before they moved into their new school in May 1983. The time capsule was built into the main hallway wall when the school was built and was retrieved from the wall in May 2000. On May 13, 2000 an open house to view the contents of the capsule was held in the school gymnasium. More than 125 staff, students and family members attended. The students attending Springwood in 1999-2000 created a second time capsule that was to be opened in 2015. As the school was no longer open, a time capsule opening was held at the Eagles’ Hall on December 6, 2015. More than 100 former students, parents, grandparents and staff attended. A video taken in 2000 was shown, items in the time capsule were perused and everyone got caught up with each other. One attendee in 2015 said, “I remember the wonderful teachers of Springwood and sense of community and kinship among the families.” Another attendee commented, “I enjoyed volunteering on hot dog days and driving for field trips; so many great kids and memories.” Another said, “I loved this school dearly; I attended myself and had two wonderful daughters attend Springwood as well. I walked them to and from school whenever I could. Wonderful memories!” Time Capsule opening May 2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Time Capsule opening 2015 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Springwood Elementary ACTIVITIES In 1980 club afternoons began, supported by staff and parents who offered many different choices for students to explore for one afternoon a week for six weeks. These clubs continued in many different forms until the school closed. In 1983-1984 yearbooks were started and sponsored by parent Shirli Gene Sadowick and teacher Barb Kelly. They were produced throughout the rest of the school’s history. Edu-fairs were held each spring that showcased student work in all aspects of the curriculum. Other activities included school-wide guided reading groups, Science and Mathematics days, and problem solving challenges. Science Jam 2005 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Yearbook workers 2009 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Staff, students and community members were involved in sponsoring different charities. Students raised money for the SPCA. Operation Christmas Child boxes were filled and a Christmas tree was adorned with warm clothing that was donated to the Salvation Army. Several students from one primary class volunteered each year to give up several lunch hours to make hats and other items to place on the tree. Springwood put on many operettas, air band competitions, talent shows that included staff performances, assembly performances and speech art performances, all of which showcased the diverse talents of the Springwood community. Staff and students performing 1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Hats made for the Christmas tree 2009 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Springwood Elementary SPORTS There were many different sporting events that took place each year. The school had winter games, summer games, World Cup of soccer totally organized and run by the students, Turkey Trot, Terry Fox Run, and a sports day tug-of-war with students tugging Mr. Raines’ truck. In 2006, Springwood students participated in Jump Rope for Heart and raised $2900 for the Heart and Stroke Foundation. The Springwood Stingers name was created in 1983. In 2003 a parent, Mr. Hans Saefkow, designed a large bee and painted it on the outside wall of the school. Jump Rope for Heart 2007 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Springwood Stinger SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Winter Games award ceremony 2010 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection There were various sports teams over the years including volleyball, basketball, cross-country running, baseball, floor hockey, ringette and wrestling. The school’s relay teams often participated in the Massey/ Masich Place district event. Wrestling team 1986-1987 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Relays at Masich Place 2010 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Springwood Elementary LAST STAFF Kathy Dorval Linda Goldie Erich Franz Amanda MacLeod Irene Lind Terry Phillips Andrea Brandle Janice Elsenheimer Janet Thwaites Marianne Brown Anita Gray Ann Caron Susan Compagnon Margaret Karlson Springwood staff 2009-2010 Kathy Dorval, principal SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Springwood students 2009-2010 Memories SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Having worked in several schools over the past twenty years, I can tell you that Springwood is a unique place: there is a sense of pride among everyone associated with the school and a feeling that, by working together, we are doing something important for our students. Gerry Sheanh 1993, former principal SD 57 Education Heritage Collection We all think we were fortunate to have found that community and to have Springwood as our children’s first school. It really seemed like a small town within the city. Hans Saeflkow 2015, former parent Springwood Elementary Memories I started teaching at Springwood Elementary in September 1980 and was still teaching there when it was closed. I have many wonderful memories, some silly, some poignant and will always hold the school dear to my heart. Before Springwood had a gym, a favourite memory is walking to Wildwood School in December, with the whole school population, to practice our Christmas concert in their gym. Hot dog days in the portables were interesting with hotplates placed strategically throughout the main portable, as there was no stove to be used. Moving into the new school was a very exciting time for everyone. I remember the students playing ‘toilet bowl monster’ on the geo-dome in the playground. I never did figure out the game except that it was some type of tag! After the school had a gym, the last week of school in December found the classes singing Christmas carols there every morning accompanied by Mrs. Millner, a parent. Mrs. Millner kept coming back each year even after her children left Springwood. The time capsule openings were very special with former students, parents, grandparents and other community members coming to both openings. What a great chance to catch up and celebrate Springwood! Most of all I have memories of the wonderful parents, grandparents, siblings, students, staff and community supporting each other and making Springwood a very special place to be. As one student so aptly said, ‘it (Springwood) is irreplaceable’. Terry Phillips 2016, former teacher Murals and students outside Springwood 2006 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Springwood was a great little school tucked away back and beyond. My most outstanding memory was how great the staff worked and played together. Every year at the year-end assembly we would have an air band show with all the staff performing (even the custodian) and the kids were in awe. It was a great way to end the year. Also, while I was there the District Resource Centre (now the District Learning Commons) automated all the libraries. It was an enormous task, with a group of teacher-librarians from other schools coming in to do the weeding. The library looked so empty after it was all finished. Because of technology the learning curve was enormous during those years. Hard to believe how far we have come! Bonny Creak 2016, retired teacher Spruceland Elementary Spruceland Traditional Elementary 3805 Rainbow Drive, Prince George 1965 to Present “With Hard Work Comes Success” Original Mission Statement At Spruceland Elementary we value a safe, caring environment which promotes a high level of academic achievement and social responsibility. We believe a team approach involving all partners will enable the school to provide opportunities for all students to develop to their full potential. Traditional School Mission Statement The Mission of Spruceland Traditional School as a choice school in School District 57, is to strive toward individual excellence in education by providing a structured approach to learning whereby all students acquire knowledge, skills and attitudes in a systematic, sequential way. Core virtues and a clearly defined standard of behaviour will be established and a positive and close partnership between home and school will be encouraged. Spruceland School 1980 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History Spruceland Elementary opened in September 1965. It was built to accommodate the families moving into the new subdivisions of Spruceland and Lakewood. The construction of three pulp mills, Prince George Pulp and Paper, Northwood Pulp and Intercontinental Pulp, between 1964 and 1966, resulted in rapid growth and a need for new housing and schools in School District 57. Spruceland Elementary/Spruceland Traditional Elementary The school took its name from the name of the subdivision that, like many places in Prince George, was named for the abundance of trees in the area. The school is one of the biggest elementary schools constructed in Prince George. It has 19 classrooms, a gymnasium, library, various activity rooms and a courtyard. There were classrooms designed to be used for team teaching and a room designed to be used for art activities. The gymnasium has a full stage. At its largest, in 1972, Spruceland enrolled 869 students and portable classrooms were needed to house the large student population. With the completion of nearby Lakewood Elementary in 1973 the population fell by 200 pupils. A steady decline over the years created enough space for a French Immersion program to move in to the school in 1986. The immersion program grew over the years from its inception as K-1 to a full K-7. In September 2010, the French Immersion program moved to Ecole Lac des Bois, the former Lakewood Junior Secondary. In September 2011, the school became a Traditional School when Central Fort George Elementary closed. enrollment y ear grade # 1966 1-7 612 1971 1-7 838 1976 K-7 451 1981 K-7 374 1986 K-7 264 1991 K-7 251 1996 K-7 266 2001 K-7 206 2006 K-7 188 2011 K-7 341 2013 K-7 347 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Division 12 & 13 1975-76 Sandra Hay, teacher Courtesy of Sandra Hay, retired teacher French Immersion y ear grade # 1986 K-1 43 1990 K-5 174 1993 K-5 174 1996 K-5 140 1999 K-7 139 2002 K-7 127 2005 K-7 128 2008 K-7 168 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Spruceland Elementary/Spruceland Traditional Elementary Principals Wilmer Wiens Dave McMurray George Petrescu Don Wilkins Colin Scott Sue Diakiw Rob McIntosh Ray Giffin Janice Wharrie Anjula Corbin Linda Picton First Spruceland Staff June 1967 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Vice Principals Dave McMurray Norm Monroe Gus Agostinis Brian Pepper Art Brown Conrad Kowalenko Jennifer Rankin Anjula Corbin Kathie Hilder Tim Y ule Art Webb Luc St. Denis Kathy Dorval Bruce Walkey Tabatha Grigg First Staff Yoshi Hashimoto Hazel Wiebe Connie Vos Wilmer Wiens Jean MacMillan Irene Patrick Don Chamberlain Karen Davis Lyn Jensen Lorraine Mackintosh Marnie Easton Wilda Allen Ken Fletcher Bobbie Jordan Mark Cramer Doris Elbe Y vonne (Fournier) Nelson Sue Sutherland Maureen Kennedy Wilma MacPherson Spruceland Elementary/Spruceland Traditional Elementary Activities Over the years Spruceland has had many special programs and exciting events. Some of the more unique and lasting programs are: • • • • • • • Choir Drama Club Annual Club Band Ukulele Club Library Club Chess Club Special Days: • • • • Scene from “Amahl & the Night Visitors” Courtesy of Maureen Kennedy, retired teacher Look Alike Day Crazy Tie Day Heritage Fair Carnaval de Spruceland Grade 5 Pupils in MacBeth 1975 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Spruceland Elementary/Spruceland Traditional Elementary Speech Arts & Drama Festival 1976 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Prince George & District Music Festival 1989 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Spruceland Elementary/Spruceland Traditional Elementary Sports School teams have included: • • • • • • Floor hockey Volleyball Basketball Soccer Indoor relays Track and field Lakewood Jr. Basketball Playday SD 57 Education Heritage Collectionr The school hosted a cross-country run each year entitled the Rainbow Classic. It was held across the street from the school in Rainbow Park. Other special sports events over the years included the Terry Fox Run, Skate for Literacy, ski trips to Purden and hikes up Mount Robson. Did You Know? D D ave McMurray went on to be a superintendent in another school district. Brian Pepper became superintendent of SD 57. ale Lauber, teacher-librarian at Spruceland during the 1970’s, went on to work for both the B.C. Teachers’ Federation and the B.C. Retired Teachers’ Association. M aureen Kennedy was the only original staff member who remained at Spruceland until she retired. Spruceland Elementary/Spruceland Traditional Elementary S pruceland had an internship program in the early 1970’s, partnered with The University of Victoria. Teachers with two years of university were placed for three months in a classroom, starting in April. This time of observation and experimentation with teaching was considered as a third year of university in a five-year program. This was followed up with summer school and in September the students came back to Spruceland, and their sponsor teachers, for another full year of teaching practice. This was followed by another summer session after which a teaching certificate was issued. F E ran Laliberte taught at Spruceland for 35 years, longer than anyone else. dith Kondratuk was secretary at Spruceland for over 20 years. Picket Line 2005 Fran Laliberte (3rd from left) Courtesy of Karen Dougan, retired teacher Edith Kondratuk at her Retirement Party Courtesy of Karen Dougan, retired teacher Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen March 15, 1996 Memories Spruceland Elementary/Spruceland Traditional Elementary The use of the strap had just been abolished by the provincial government. I was the administrative assistant at Spruceland Elementary School at the time and I wrote the words “Memories of the Good Ol’ Days?” on the strap for Wil Wiens, the principal, to use for the press release. Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen February 17, 1973 I recall that on the morning after the announcement about the abolition of the strap was made, several of the grade 7 Spruceland boys came running into the school hallway at recess throwing snowballs at everything and yelling, “You can’t do anything to us now!” Wil and I brought the boys into the office and called each student’s parents, one at a time, to report what had occurred. One of the boys said to us, “We forgot you could still do this.” Dave McMurray 2013, retired principal I arrived at Spruceland Elementary in the fall of 1973 and was anticipating working for what, at that time, was one of the most progressive districts in the province. I knew that SD 57’s much touted daily PE program was being copied by districts all over B.C. However, I was not a jock but an art teacher. When I arrived in September, I realized that the principal who had hired me had been transferred and I was to work for George Petrescu. At first, I was slightly intimidated by this older, somewhat gruff administrator but I soon discovered that inside George was the heart of an artist. I had never worked for anyone who was so supportive of my students’ efforts in the fine and performing arts. When I wanted yarn for weaving, or dyes for batik, or money for fancy costumes so I could stage a beautifully costumed adaptation of one of Shakespeare’s plays, George always came through. He would drop in on my rehearsals and talk to the kids like they were seasoned thespians. Staff who worked with George had many fond memories of him and it was with real sadness that I learned he had passed away in September of 2013. Sandra Hay 2014, retired teacher Valemount Elementary 1935 to Present 98 Elm Street, Valemount “Respect the Earth, Respect Each Other” Vision Statement “Strengthen One Another to Soar.” “Success lies not in being the best, but doing your best.” Mission Statement To assist in the development of respectful, compassionate, and responsible students by providing stimulating and positive learning experiences. We strive to develop and enhance intellectual, emotional, social, aesthetic, and spiritual growth. Students are encouraged to engage in activities which develop their potential and promote life long learning. Valemount Elementary 2016 Courtesy of Kathy Gates-Grogan, retired teacher Valemount Elementary 1980’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Demographics Valemount is located 298 km southeast of Prince George in the Robson Valley. In 2016, Valemount had about 2,000 permanent residents. The ‘vale’ between ‘mountains’ is apt as the Rocky, Monashee, and Cariboo mountain ranges surround it. It is close to Mount Robson Provincial Park. Many families moved to Valemount and Tete Jaune while Highways 5 and 16 were being built. In 1967, the construction of the not too distant Mica Dam brought an influx of people to the village. The community has an economic base of forestry, ranching, transportation, (railway and highways), ecotourism and recreation. The school serves approximately 150 families, many of whom are related to long-time community members. Valemount Elementary ENROLLMENT YEAR 1945 1956 1966 1974 1984 1994 2005 2016 GRADE 1-9 1-10 1-10 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 # 17 99 285 268 308 261 137 127 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Valemount School 1936 Valemount and Area Museum 2003.18.120 HISTORY The first school was in the hamlet of Swift Creek, adjacent to Valemount. It existed from 1916-1935, until it was destroyed by fire. In the summer of 1935, Johnston McKenzie, a school board trustee, and citizens built a new wood frame school in Valemount, on Main Street, which opened in September. On weekends this school held Sunday School, meetings, dances, elections, parties and even church services. The shed behind the schoolhouse was used to shelter and tether horses. Older students were eligible to do janitorial work for $5.00 a month. In the beginning, the whole student body was comprised of three families. The schoolhouse was later used as an extra classroom and then became Valemount’s public library. One of two twin buildings of Valemount School, early 1950’s Valemount and Area Museum 2003.17.142 Valemount Elementary A new school comprised of two separate buildings was erected in 1952 on 5th Avenue. It was known as the Valemount Elementary Junior High School. In 1956, the school was doubled to four rooms and was renamed Valemount Superior School. “Superior” was the official designation for schools enrolling both elementary and high school classes. There were at least two teacherages on the property. In 1961, the people of Valemount applied for funding to enlarge the current school and, in 1962, were awarded a two-room addition. By 1965, an extension included a gym with a stage, a library and administrative areas. As this was already inadequate, a class had to be accommodated on the stage. By the mid-1960’s, the school board had refurbished the 1935 schoolhouse, plus the church hall, and hauled in another portable in order to house all the classes up to grade 10. Three more classrooms were then added which freed up community facilities. By 1967, the school consisted of nine classrooms and a portable. Students on steps 1953 Courtesy of Yellowhead Pass and Its People Valemount Hiistoric Society, 1984. Girls on trampoline 1960’s Valemount and Area Museum 2003.17.60 Valemount students in tug-of-war 1965 Valemount and Area Museum 2003.18.119 Valemount Elementary It became evident that a new building was a necessity and, in preparation, the 1974-75 school year ran on two shifts: elementary in the morning, and secondary in the afternoon. The Valemount Elementary School, on Elm Street, was completed in 1975. Between 1977 and 1979, a portable classroom remained at the high school on 5th Avenue and housed a grade 3/4 class. The portable was moved over to the elementary school on Elm Street in the summer of 1979 and was used until the 1982 addition of new classrooms was completed. Valemount Elementary School has 11 classrooms, a special needs classroom, computer room, library, gym, two prep rooms, office area and staffroom. Enrollment numbers had resulted in classrooms being ‘filled to the max’ but now, with declining enrollment, there is room to spare. It has gone from being part of the secondary school to having an identity of its own. EARLY STAFF Miss Laura V.L. Hollis Miss Helvie Witala Miss Nancy Wright Mrs. M.J. Franklin Miss B.L. Macmillan Andrew Jamieson Miss Lorna Lee Mrs. Ferne (Leary) McKirdy Mrs. Pearl DeLisle Tom Woods Mrs. Arlene (Sinclair) Wood Mr. Baxter Mr. Reg Jackson Staff 2015 Courtesy of Kathy Gates-Grogan PRINCIPALS Leagh Frazer Jim Coke Ken Wilson Vern Brown Arnold Wied John Olson Genny Redman Priscilla Soucy/Prosser Valemount Elementary Grade 3/4 class 1963-1964 Bernice Morrison, teacher Valemount and Area Museum 2003.10.16 PROGRAM OF ‘VES’ • • • • • • • • • Chess—began with teacher Mr. Frank Kiyooka, passed on to Mrs. Pat Reimer, now sponsored by Ms. Karen Doughty Children’s Festival—started with Mrs. Marg Harkness, Mrs. Kathy Gates-Grogan and Mrs. Lynn (Yetter) Lawless Jasper Downhill Skiing—started with Mr. Gale Tuggle, Mrs. Kathy Gates-Grogan and Ms. Karen Doughty Red Cross Swimming Lessons—started with Mrs. Lynn Lawless Parent Advisory Committee—Mrs. Kathy Gates-Grogan Missoula Theatre Production—Mrs. Lynn Lawless and staff Hallowe’en Parade and Pumpkin carving—all staff Christmas Concerts—all staff BC School Fruit and Vegetable Nutritional Program—all staff Monday: Art Club—2:30-4:00 pm—Mrs. Barr Tuesday: Book reading club in Kindergarten room—at lunch—Miss Baines 2nd and 4th Tuesdays—Spanish Club at lunch—Mrs. Ramirez Wednesday: Newspaper club—2:30-3:30 pm—Mrs. Shaw Thursday: Boys’ Basketball—2:45-3:45 pm Friday: Girls’ Basketball—11:30 am-12:10 pm—Mrs. Lawless - Co Ed Drop-in Basketball—2:45-3:45 pm - Ukulele Club—at lunch—Mr. Winz January/February 2016 Newsletter Courtesy of Valemount Elementary School Valemount Elementary School Holds Special Evening Approximately 300 parents enjoyed an evening performance of “Alice In Wonderland” and a gymnastics display put on by the students of the elementary school. The first half of the program included Choral Speaking, which was followed by Lewis Carroll’s “Alice In Wonderland”. The cast performed exceptionally well under the leadership and direction of Mrs. Rabitte. Mrs. Rabitte, Mrs. Ruhl and Mrs. Kimmel are to be commended for imaginative costume design. After a brief intermission of coffee and cookies the audience returned to the gymnasium to view budding gymnasts perform in a four-part program involving Medau ball, Free Ex. Tumbling, Vaulting, and Balance Beam… The finale of the evening was a colorful parachute routine performed by all gymnasts in the program. The gymnastics program was directed by Mr. Tuggle who was assisted by Mr. Brown. The evening presentation was well received by all present. April 28, 1976 Courtesy of the Canoe Valley Echo Valemount Elementary Fun Fair 2013 FIELD TRIPS Courtesy of Valemount Community TV Other field trips have included Drumheller and Barkerville. Valemount Elementary FORT STEELE TRIPS Starting in the 1976-77 school term, I planned Fort Steele trips in September by organizing Grade 7 students and parents. My notebook had a page for each student and how much they had earned – raking leaves, babysitting, and so on. The total needed to be $120.00 to pay for meals, bus travel, driver, park fees, or whatever emergency came up. One trip I had to have motel rooms for sick supervisors. We roomed in tents in Castle Meadows outside of Banff; school auditoriums in Invermere, Wasa Lake, Cranbrook, Calgary and Bellevue, Alberta. Highlights of the Itinerary 1. Left school at 6:00 a.m. sharp. 2. First stop: Athabasca Falls on Jasper-Banff Highway 93. 3. Athabasca Glacier bus ride, Columbia Ice Fields – we studied glaciers and how they formed valleys. 4. Bow Lake and Bow Lake Glacier – stopped for viewing glaciers that formed the lake. 5. Castle Meadows – set up tents and learned how to put anything edible, even toothpaste, in the steel building, away from bears or other creatures. Set out swimsuits and towels for swimming the next day. 6. Radium Hot Springs – swim and lunch. 7. Invermere School – slept overnight and had breakfast. 8. Wasa Lake – wiener roast and met a former Park Warden from Red Pass. There was a caterpillar infestation and they were crawling everywhere, and dangling from trees. Ugh. 9. Cranbrook – slept in the Tenth Avenue School. 10. Fort Steele – The docents were dressed in 1895-1900 era costumes and this set the stage for: • baking dough goods in a coal and wood stove. • milking Daisy the Jersey cow. • churning butter. • feeding the pigs that were named Pork and Beans. • scrubbing clothes on a scrub board and hanging them out to dry with huge clothes pegs. • building a railway and riding on a handcar and train around the park. • panning for gold in the Kootenay River and filling our little bottles, if successful. • cooking breakfast in the Northwest Mounted Police mess hall on the largest stove, Ellice Blackman, a supervisor, had ever seen. • sleeping on straw mattresses on stacked bunkbeds in the police barracks. • lunching in the Tea Room. • going to the General Store and buying souvenirs, especially the huge jaw breakers. 11. Off to the Wardner fish hatchery to see turtles and trout 12. On to Crowsnest Pass to Bellevue, Alberta; to the McEachern School for supper and sleep. We visited the Miners’ Museum, viewed the Turtle Mountain Frank slide, and watched a film. 13. Off to Head-Smashed-In-Buffalo Jump. 14. Calgary – Southern Leisure Centre to swim in the waves, after overnighting at the YMCA, and breakfast at McDonald’s. 15. Headed for Valemount via the Banff-Jasper Highway, stopping in Jasper for pizza bought by the last of the students’ money. 16. Home to Valemount about 5:30 p.m. to parents and friends. Each evening the students filled their journals, which were checked by the various supervisors. For each trip, 13 in total, I prepared albums. The final Valemount Fort Steele trip was in 1992-1993, when I retired. Unfortunately, we cannot locate any of these albums today and this is a great loss to the history of Valemount Elementary School. Joan Nordli 2016, retired teacher Valemount Elementary A SHORT HISTORY OF THE GRADE 7 BERG LAKE TRIP by Elizabeth (Tuggle) MacLean For the past 40-odd years, Valemount’s Grade 7 students have embarked on a five-day journey to one of the most spectacular places on earth – Berg Lake. It’s 40 km round trip and requires the kids to carry heavy packs with tents, sleeping gear and food. The trip was started by Gale Tuggle around 1975 soon after he started teaching in Valemount. Tuggle had experience with a survival school down in Pinedale, Wyoming, where he had taught as a P.E. teacher and football coach. He says he wanted to extend the survival school to this beautiful area. Tuggle started taking elementary students on hikes in and around Valemount. He then planned a trip to Kinney Lake with the Gr. 5 class along with Lois Kimmel (the other Gr. 5 teacher) and Ella Fry (a local female trapper). Fry regaled the adults with stories from the past, when she rode with the Dennison Ranch located roughly where the Mt. Robson gas station is now. She talked about the Dennisons and the Hargreaves and the good-natured rivalry that existed between the two families. The trip was a success and so, in 1976 the same class, now in Gr. 6, went all the way to Berg Lake. Evelyn Olofsson and Rev. Norm Walker joined Gale as chaperones. The weather that trip was cold and cloudy. Close to Berg Lake, snow was still present in the shadows. Then it started to rain. Some had rain gear, but most donned garbage bags. The chalet up at Berg Lake was absolute heaven, Olofsson recalls. The Cochranes had a belching stove to huddle around and a clothesline to string wet clothes upon! The class then went to Adolphus Meadows after promising Ishbel they would return for homemade ice cream. They hiked back and one of the guides lassoed an iceberg for the ice! They hand-churned the ice cream and were so satiated, Olofsson remembers. Olofsson describes how the Valemount kids had the “Nelson pack” also called a “packboard;” it had canvas and boards that laced up in the middle. In those days, many kids packed full tins of vegetables rather than today’s freeze-dried fare and wore tennis shoes rather than hiking boots. A student crosses one of many bridges on the way to Berg Lake 2016 Courtesy of The Rocky Mountain Goat online July 2016 Valemount Elementary A shot of students visiting Emperor Falls Courtesy of The Rocky Mountain Goat online July 2016 Teacher Karen Doughty still remembers going with Tuggle in 1993, before he retired, and says they still follow the same itinerary as the 1993 trip. She carries on the ice cream tradition with the same wooden ice cream bucket stored at the ranger station. They also continue the great belly flopping contest in Adolphus Lake (weather permitting). She says this year they didn’t make it to Adolphus as it was snowing both days they were staying at Robson Pass. They still hiked to the toe of the glacier in very strong winds to pick off some ice to make ice cream in the same old ice cream maker from the Mt Robson Ranch days, using cream, eggs and sugar. Doughty, who has led the trip since 2002, says the trip is a major bonding experience for the Gr. 7 students before they head to high school. “One student told me she never wanted Berg Lake to be over because everyone was friends when they were there; when we went back to school it would all be different again with everyone in their own little groups.” Numerous parents and grandparents have come through the years to volunteer their time and most of them return to Berg Lake. “There is a big sense of achievement when the trip is over when the students realize what they have accomplished.” July 2016 Courtesy of The Rocky Mountain Goat online Valemount Elementary Did You Know? C hurch services were held at the school since the early days. Teachers and parents organized Sunday School classes. It wasn’t until 1959 that a lay minister took over this responsibility. By the beginning of 1960’s, the school ceased this function as two churches were built in Valemount. T he school started out as its own school district, then was part of the Kamloops School District, then School District #58 (McBride) before it was amalgamated in 1970, and finally School District #57 (Prince George). V alemount Elementary Junior Secondary School offered one of the province’s first kindergarten classes that was included in the school’s enrollment. In September 1969, kindergarten students expanded the school composition by offering grades K to 10. V alemount Elementary School Song This is our school here and this is our home Our Valley in the mountains that we call our own When we all stand together and we all do our best At Valemount Elementary you’re as good as the rest Wherever you wander, whatever you see Valemount Elementary in our hearts you will be Where the future is bright as our mountains are tall In our school each person is important to all We can do anything if we only try We can go as far as an eagle can fly Wherever you wander, whatever you see Valemount Elementary in our hearts you’ll always be. Music and Lyrics (1997): Phil Pittman, VES teacher & Brent Eather, Australian Exchange Teacher Valemount Elementary School came Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen April 2, 1998 close to making a clean sweep of the third annual Prince George school district chess tournament. The rural school, 300 km east of Prince George picked up five of seven first-place spots at the one-day event held Saturday at Van Bien Elementary School in Prince George… Valemount Elementary Memories We had a large wood heater in the middle of our schoolhouse for heat so, in the winter, we would have to move our desks as close to the heater as possible to keep warm and a lot of our days would be cut short as the school was just not warm enough to get any work done. The year I started grade 8 (1954) we got a second teacher in Valemount to teach grades 4-8. We were housed in the community hall for a short while until a portable building could be brought in. Jean Froescul, former student Yellowhead Pass and Its People. Valemount Historic Society, 1984. Most of the 30 years that I spent in the classroom were spent in the Prince George District. I started teaching in 1958 and retired in 1991. I came to Valemount about 1965. Throughout my years there, I taught mainly the primary grades (K through 3) but I did branch out to grades 4 and 5 a couple of times. I seemed to enjoy the small annex buildings and spent a few years in the old school across the tracks where I taught Kindergarten and where, a few years later, I had a grade 3/4 class. I taught in the annex by the old school that later became a janitorial building. At one time I had a Special Ed. class there. I taught in many of the classrooms in the new school and, if the chalkboards are still there, it would be easy to tell which ones because I lined the chalkboards with a green felt pen in every room I ever used. After switching to grade 4 from grade 2, a little boy echoed the thoughts of the group when he questioned if I knew how to teach grade 4. Before the year was over, the class all agreed that I did. Over the years I saw many changes in school life. I remember the jelly pad duplicator, which needed to rest 24 hours before one could use it again. From this humble beginning to the recent copiers that, as long as they had ink and paper, could copy happily for hours was a truly long way. I remember struggling with the attendance register and the hours spent trying to get the thing to balance. From that mind numbing task to the computer that dealt with the register in just minutes, was a godsend for any busy teacher. Doing noon-hour supervision also changed with the hiring of paid supervisors. Teachers in Valemount came and went, some with hardly a passing thought; however, others left their marks on the school, community and on our hearts. We had teachers from England, New Zealand, Australia and the U.S. Our staff sometimes seemed like a Commonwealth of Teachers. Lois E. Kimmel 2016, retired teacher Valemount Elementary My husband, Leagh, went on ahead to Valemount [as principal]. He was soon so busy getting things organized at the beginning of the school year that it was two months before he had time to come and drive our car and me [in Kamloops]…Our teacherage was one of two situated on the school grounds. It was very small and I was so shocked when I found Leagh had lived there in that goldfish bowl with no curtains. Some people had invited him out for dinner but he seemed always too busy. No wonder he was so thin; he had been living on peanut butter sandwiches. Norah Frazer, wife of former principal Yellowhead Pass and Its People. Valemount Historic Society, 1984. My school year, 1965-66, in the old 1935-built schoolhouse was the most interesting year I had ever encountered in my profession. Imagine outhouses, a crock for daily water for drinking and washing our hands after using the outside facilities, a heater that I had to feed chopped wood and windows only on one side of the building. At Christmas, School District #58 (McBride) installed a propane heater near the ceiling of the cloakroom – with a fan – blessed heat! However, the floor (made of spruce 8”x8” planks and nothing more) was so cold we sat on our feet and very seldom left the room for the outhouses. I do not think there was one inch of insulation in the whole building. With my desk and the 37 desks for the grade 3 class – we were very crowded to say the least – the only heat we produced was on the May and June warm days! As any class, we practised for our Christmas Concert very religiously only to have a case of the mumps stop the whole performance! The little guy had a mother who didn’t believe in the immunization program – result, an epidemic at Christmas time! I had the mumps when I was ten, but I did end up with laryngitis. As we were separated from the main school, we were left out of a variety of activities – even to having our photos taken! As to discipline – I became a master of solving problems without the assistance of the principal, Leagh Frazer! Joan Nordli 2016, retired teacher who taught in Valemount from 1965-1993 and still lives there There was a young lad in my grade 2/3 class who had difficulty staying in his seat. He was creating distractions for everyone else trying to do their work. I took a soft skipping rope, put it over his lap and tied it loosely under the seat of the chair. It solved the problem as he stayed in his seat after that. I realize that, today, even the mention of doing that would have negative repercussions but, in those days, we did use some different discipline measures. Another incident involved a child who had been sent out of the room about 15 minutes before lunchtime and told to sit by the coat rack. As the rest of the students were getting their lunch, one asked where the child had gone. When I went to look for him, he had hidden between two open doors, that of our room, plus the adjoining one. It was a good job someone noticed or the poor child might have fallen asleep! Irma Brownlee 2016, retired teacher Vanway Elementary 4509 Highway 16 West, Prince George 1961 to Pr esent MISSION STATEMENT To provide educational opportunities for all students in a cooperative, caring and supportive learning environment. Va nwa y E lem ent a ry 198 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY Vanway (Vanderhoof Highway school) was originally built in 1961. In 1971-1972, the office area, the library and the west wing classrooms were added. On Thanksgiving day in 1975, a deliberately set fire destroyed the original eight classrooms in the wooden frame portion of the 18 room structure. Only $400,000 worth of damage was estimated as the blaze was stopped by a concrete fire wall between the old and new sections of the school. Later in 1975, a staffroom, kindergarten, and primary classrooms and a kitchen and gymnasium were constructed to replace the damaged facilities. A south wing composed of four more classrooms was added in 1977, in response to the residential growth in the area. Vanway Elementary Lacking a water supply, a fireman stands by helplessly as flames consume part of Vanway School. October 14, 1975 A rs on at Va nwa y 1 975 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Students who use a tunnel under Highway 16 West to get to Vanway had to use alternate ways to get to school. The flooded tunnel forced some students to bus to school. April 22, 2009 P edes t ria n T unnel Floo ded 2 009 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Vanway Elementary DEMOGRAPHICS Vanway students come from suburban, semi-rural and rural areas. The majority of students live within walking distance of the school in the Lafreniere and Parkridge Heights residential areas. Some students from the Gauthier Road area access the school by a pedestrian tunnel that goes under Highway 16 West. With the transfer of Haldi Road students to the school in 2002, the rural catchment area was enlarged. Approximately 100 students now ride the bus to school. Enrollment was high in the 1970’s as the city spread westward and is rising again as the Westgate area develops. E N R O L L MENT YEAR 1961 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2008 2009 GRADES # 1-7 58 1-7 364 1-7 391 K-7 459 K-7 279 K-7 236 K-7 226 K-7 290 K-7 253 K-7 281 K-7 294 K-7 287 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) PR I N C I PA LS 1961-2010 Bill Voth George Harris Owen Corcoran John Zibin Mark Cramer Chris Boyle Lee Bleecker Mary Ann Lyall Anjula Corbin Bruce Wiebe Van way Sc hool St aff 1 965 -196 6, Bill Vot h, princ ipal SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Vanway Elementary STUDENT ACTIVITIES At Vanway, the students are taught to take pride in their school. This pride is very visible as one walks through the hallways and views the colourful wall murals. Lately, every Friday has become Vanway School Spirit Day and students are encouraged to wear their Vanway Vikings t-shirts. The Vanway Trebles have been taking part in the district choral showcase at Vanier Hall since the 1970’s. Other students are involved with the district Battle of the Books Canadian Red Cedar contest through the school’s library. Vanway entered a team in the 2009 CKPG Quizme contest. M ura ls i n Ha ll wa ys 200 2 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection MURALS FR O M VAN WAY SC H OO L Vanway Elementary Students have been very active in Science Fairs and sports at the school and district level. Vanway has cross country running, volleyball, basketball and floor hockey teams that compete against other elementary schools in the district. S chool Sc ienc e Fair 198 8 Parents are very supportive of school and class projects, fund raisers and field trips. They frequently provide transportation for both curricular and extracurricular activities. SD 57 Education Heritage Collection S C I E N CE FAIR 1988 Vanway School Goals 2008 Every student will be given the opportunity to develop: • • • • • • • a positive willingness to learn excellent reading, writing and math skills creative thinking and problem-solving skills independent decision-making skills high self-esteem self-motivation the ability to work together Vanway Elementary STUDENTS RAISE FUNDS FOR CHARITY Vanway elementary students rallied their school community to an art display last week and raised a sizable amount of money for local charity. The school has traditionally raised money for St. Vincent de Paul Society each year to help their work feeding the city’s most needy. This year they held an exhibition of student art which included a silent auction. “All 300 students in the school, Kindergarten to Grade 7, created a piece of art under the guidance of their respective teachers,” said principal, Bruce Wiebe. “All work was craftily displayed in the school gym and stu- A rt E xhi bi t i on & Si lent A uct i on 2 008 dents and their families were invited to attend the art gala.” More than $1,300 was handed over the next day to representatives of St. Vincent de Paul so it could go to work helping their needs during the cold snap leading into Christmas. “The gym was packed...the event was pronounced a resounding success,” Wiebe said. Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen “Vanway school (hopes) that the monies will provide some much needed help during this time of year.” December 17, 2008 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Van Bien Elementary 311 Wilson Crescent, Prince George 1967 to Present Mission Statement To maximize learning for all in a safe, inclusive environment. Van Bien Elementary 2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History Van Bien Elementary opened in 1968. The subdivision where it was built was named after a Mr. Van Bien who lived in a cabin where the school now stands. Nearby Van Bien Avenue, named before 1910, was originally a trail leading from South Fort George to Mr. Van Bien’s cabin. The beginning of Van Bien Elementary meant the end of a large wild blueberry patch. The contract to build the school was signed in April 1967. The first student body, with Mr. Cramer as principal, was housed in South Fort George Elementary. The 224 students were on shift with the South Fort George students from September 1967 to February 1968. When completed, Van Bien had eight large classrooms, an office, a staffroom and a small electrical room. Within a week of moving in, the electrical room also became the library. The door was modified so Mrs. Irene Hansen, the teacherlibrarian, could lend out books. There was no gymnasium so the first Christmas concert was held at South Fort George. There was an addition made to the school in 1970 that doubled the length of the school and added a full-sized library, more bathrooms and a large open teaching area. In 1971, this open area was turned into four partially walled classrooms. As well, a gymnasium, foyer and change rooms were added. In 1973, two portables were installed but one was removed in 1975. The remaining one was used for a private Montessori program for one year. In 1974, part of the back wall of the library was removed and four classrooms were added. The school was now triple its original size. Van Bien Elementary enrollment y ear grade # 1967 1-7 224 1973 K-7 424 1979 K-7 330 1984 K-7 255 1990 K-7 275 1996 K-7 220 2002 K-7 178 2007 K-7 232 2012 K-7 211 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) s Mark Cramer John Norman Bud Burbee John Zibin Vern Brown Ken Todd Craig Brennan Dan Domes Deb (Strasdin) Kaban Van Bien Grade 1 Class 1969-70 Miss Ross, teacher Courtesy of Doug Grant, former student Van Bien Staff 2014 Mrs. D. Kaban, principal SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Van Bien Elementary By the late 1970’s, Van Bien’s enrollment was declining and from September 1978 to October 1979, Malaspina’s primary students were bussed to Van Bien while their school was being completed. In 1979, Van Bien became a dual-track school with the addition of Programme Cadre, a French program for students. In 1984, the Programme Cadre students were moved to King George V Elementary. This left Van Bien with a number of empty classrooms and one section of the school was renovated and became the Van Bien Training and Development Centre. This area was used to hold in-service and professional development activities for SD 57 employees. The school also booked it for events. Currently, there are nine classrooms, a library, a computer room, a gymnasium and an adventure playground. The original catchment area was Perry subdivision, from Highway 16 West to the Fraser River, Fraserview subdivision and Lansdowne Road. In 2003, South Fort George Elementary closed and its students were moved to Van Bien. Early Staff Karen Mayer Joyce Burkitt Irene Hansen Sheila Johnston Kay Nielsen Rob Griffiths Michael Hayes Jan Pelletier Sandy Edgar Jeanette Tremblay Cecelia Stiles Yoshi Hashimoto Val Palmer Rose Loewen Richard Potter Betty Edelmann Lynda Grant Pam Shelest Deidre Stuart Van Bien Staff 1971 Mark Cramer, principal Courtesy of Sheila Johnston, retired teacher Van Bien Elementary Did You Know? S tudents are expected to demonstrate Van Bien’s virtues (Respect, Ownership, Achievement, Responsibility and Safety) in all locations of the school. The “ROARS” virtues are reinforced formally at weekly assemblies and informally throughout the week. The “GOTCHA” recognition program and special end-of-term celebrations reward students who consistently demonstrate “ROARS” behaviour. I n 1985, a number of hearing impaired students, their teachers and their interpreters/ transliterators came to Van Bien. The program continued for a few years and then the model for serving the hearing impaired students changed. Report On Hearing Impaired Program in Yearbook 1988 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection B ecause it is easy for the school to access the Van Bien Training and Development Centre, it is often booked for activities such as Cowboy Days, Beans and Bannock lunches, Greek Toga banquets, Science Fairs and Heritage Day displays. V an Bien’s large playing field easily accommodates Sports Days and Winter Carnivals. There is also a fenced tennis court that the city boards in the fall. Then in the winter, the parents make an ice rink and take responsibility for clearing it and flooding it. O n May 8, 1986, Van Bien held a penny drive and raised $347.11. The money helped send Lance Gordon, Greg Warren and Susan Warren to the World Games for the Deaf in Los Angeles. I n the late 1970’s, Mrs. Kaban’s mother, Mrs. Strasdin, played for the choir that was directed by Mrs. Egglestone. Van Bien Elementary I I n 1986, 34 recorder students from Van Bien entered the Prince George Music Festival and earned four 1st place, three 2nd place, one 3rd place, and one 4th place. n May 1984, Mrs. Gilbert’s grade 3 class participated in the Speech Arts and Drama Festival. They were awarded 1st place with Honours. The group performed two poems, “The Flattered Flying Fish” and “Daddy Fell into the Pond”. Mrs. Gilbert’s Grade 3 Class 1984 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection M r. Brennan, while principal at Van Bien, ran a Survivor Challenge for intermediate students. In 2004, Jordan Drejet wrote an article for the yearbook. Survivor Challenge 2004 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Van Bien Elementary PROGRAMME CADRE DE FRANCAIS (THE FRANCOPHONE PROGRAM) In 1979, SD 57 began offering a French education program for francophone children from K-7. The curriculum was equivalent to the English curriculum except that all the subjects were taught in French. The B.C. Ministry of Education developed this program when the federal government recognized the right of francophones to be educated in French. Van Bien Elementary, with Mr. John Norman as the principal, was designated as the PCDF school. It became a dual-track school, offering both English and French education, in September 1979. A pre-registration had enrolled 54 children so two teachers were hired, Mesdames Eveline Bergeron and Annette Peterson, as well as a part-time secretary, Mme Rejeanne Moses. Unfortunately, only 13 children arrived in September and by November the number had dropped to 11. As a result, Mme Peterson was assigned to a different position and Mme Bergeron found herself with a K-7 class. By the spring of 1980, the number of students had increased to 24 and Mme Nanette was hired as a teacher aide. The following year Mme Louise Magnus became the new secretary for the program. First PCDF Class at Van Bien 1980 Courtesy of Eveline Bergeron, former teacher By September 1983, PCDF occupied five classrooms at Van Bien and, in September 1984, the program was moved to King George V Elementary where there was available space for the more than 200 students enrolled in the program. In 2002 Ecole Franco-Nord, the current location of the Francophone Program, named its library Bibliotheque Eveline Bergeron to honour its pioneer teacher. Carnaval 1982 Courtesy of Eveline Bergeron, former teacher Van Bien Elementary COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION The Van Bien Community Association was formed in the 1970’s under the guidance of the principal, John Norman. Many of the first people involved were also the originators of “Candy Cane Lane”. They were concerned about the community but also provided energetic and capable support to the school. There were many ways that the association enriched the school experience. They set up and staffed sports activities such as adult badminton, father and son floor hockey and T-ball. They planned and manned a Halloween party that included a haunted house. They built an adjustable carpeted stage that was easily dismantled for storage. Memories of Halloween 1985 Mrs. Johnston’s Grade 2/3 Class SD 57 Education Heritage Collection They also provided funds for bussing to places such as Camp Hughes and to pick up the kindergarten class after their train trip to Hixon. Adventure Playground 1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection If food was involved, the community association was involved. They provided a monthly hot lunch, operated the Sports Day concession, hosted an annual “Breakfast with Santa” with mounds of pancakes and sausages, and hosted an “Easter Bunny Breakfast” with mounds of pancakes and sausages (plus baby chicks and ducklings). On the eastern end of the school there are the remnants of the first “Goode Park”. Jean Miniaci, a parent, led the movement to name the park in recognition of Bob and Gladys Goode’s efforts in funding, planning and physically working on the playground. Mr. Goode was also the qualified volunteer bus driver that drove students on various field trips, such as to Camp Hughes. As well, Mrs. Goode sewed reversible vests for the primary and intermediate choirs that are still in use. She also made many of the costumes for the operettas plus the Christmas and Spring concerts. Van Bien Elementary Activities Jump Rope for Heart, Christmas hampers and penny drives were supported by the students. In 1995, Van Bien received the award for the elementary school with the most participants in the Terry Fox Run. The junior and senior choirs have enriched the school’s concerts and assemblies. Their singing was also central to the school’s operettas such as “Joseph’s Coat of Many Colors”. The choirs performed at the School District’s Christmas choral evenings at Vanier Hall. Terry Fox Run Participants 1995 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Physically, the library was at the centre of the school. The teacher-librarians made it a centre of activity, as well. Over the years, Book Fairs, board games at lunch, Halloween events such as Name the Witch and displays of carved pumpkins, visiting authors and storytellers kept the students’ interest piqued. The teacher-librarians have also encouraged students to participate in the Red Cedar Awards. It is a province-wide reading program in which students read fiction and nonfiction books recently published by Canadian authors. The students then vote for their favourite. For many years, the end of grade 7 has been marked by a camping trip. The first year had Mr. Goode driving a bus of students to Camp McInnis. The students enjoyed canoeing, archery, crafts, fishing, mosquitoes, and campfires. Mrs. Goode was the first “Cookie”. She supplied a steady stream of great meals and yummy snacks. Over time the location and activities have changed but the mosquitoes, excitement and enthusiasm for the trip has remained constant. At different times students have enjoyed guitar, chess, sign language, computer and library clubs. For many years, the grade 4, 5 or 6 classes have gone on a day trip to Barkerville. Van Bien Elementary Sports Mascot by Jodi Amundsen 1985 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection In 1985, grade 4 student Jodi Amundsen’s design for a school mascot was selected. Her choice for the team name was the Van Bien Tigers. Van Bien’s mascot and team name changed several times over the years. Currently, the mascot is a dragon and the T-shirts say Blazers. Relays at Massey Place 1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Van Bien students are active participants in interschool sports such as basketball, volleyball, wrestling, cross-country running, relays and track and field. Two teams from Van Bien took part in the 2014 Ice Man Competition. The entire school population makes a trip to the Aquatic Centre as part of Sports Day. Intermediate classes enjoy trips to the ski hill where they have had snowboarding and ski lessons. Tabor Mountain March 1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Snowflake Run in College Heights 1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Van Bien Elementary Memories Registration for the first kindergarten classes was on a cool Saturday morning in May 1972. Parents were lined up in lawn chairs long before the doors opened. It was a social event with thermoses of coffee and homemade muffins (pre-Tim Horton’s). Parents also brought birth certificates to prove that their child would be five before December 31, 1972. Mrs. Mingay and myself, both Van Bien teachers, were the registration officials. We both had a child who qualified for a spot so the principal had willing workers. In the fall of 1972, Mrs. Edelmann taught 25 four and five year-olds in the morning and a different group of 25 in the afternoon. Mr. Edelmann cooked dinner. Mrs. Edelmann rested. Van Bien’s west side was bordered by a small city park which included swings, teeter-totters and climbing towers. It also had a pine forest where the senior students played Capture the Flag with great enthusiasm. The younger children just played so hard that they didn’t even hear the end of recess or lunch bell. The person on playground duty always ruined their fun. Sheila Johnston 2014, retired teacher On June 23, 1983, the school threw a surprise party for retiring teacher Mrs. Kay Nielsen. The teachers gave Kay a pair of diamond earrings. Mr. John Norman, our previous principal, also came to the party. Two students from each year that Kay taught presented her with a long stemmed red rose. At the end, all the teachers did a play. The intermediate choir, conducted by Mrs. Church, sang a song called “The Rose”. Then, for the outstanding finish, Mrs. Nielsen’s 1983 grade 3 class sang a song called “You are My Sunshine”. Of course, they made up their own words to the song. I must say, I have never seen so many people cry when Mr. Burbee told them that Mrs. Nielsen was retiring. Melanie Olesik 1983, former student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Mrs. Nielsen by Angela Doell 1983 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Van Bien Kindergarten 1972-73 Mrs. Betty Edelmann, teacher SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Westwood Elementary 1969 to Pr esent 2633 Vanier Drive, Prince George “Working Together for Kids’ Sake” MISSION STATEMENT Westwood Elementary School is dedicated to ensuring that all students have equal opportunity to learn and develop to their full potential in a healthy, caring and challenging environment. W e st w o o d El e m e n ta ry 1 989 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection HISTORY Westwood Elementary was an eight room, grade 1-7, open-area school with a library, three conference rooms and an office when it opened with 205 students in 1969. The cost was $198,000. Developer Henry Creuzot named the subdivision where the school is located in the 1950’s and the school was named after the subdivision. He wanted the word “wood” in the name to highlight the importance of wood in the development of Prince George’s economy. Before the school was completed, the staff was invited to architect Des Parker’s home to give input on the interior organization of the building as he was interested in submitting the plans for a contest on school design. Westwood Elementary The school was not finished by the beginning of September so students were kept at home and the staff worked out of a portable at Peden Hill Elementary, preparing student materials. Throughout September, two construction crews worked to complete the school–the crew working on Wildwood Elementary was pulled off the job to help speed up Westwood’s completion. When Westwood was finished the two crews then worked to complete Wildwood. When classes began in late September, there was no furniture and few supplies. Blackboards were pieces of paper taped to the concrete walls. Additions to the school were made in 1972 and 1975 with additional classrooms and a larger staffroom being added. Later, a computer lab was also created. Outside, tennis and basketball courts were constructed and, thanks to the community association, there was also an outdoor rink in the winter. In the late 1970’s, the open-area space was closed in to create individual classrooms. Also in the late 1970’s, overcrowding necessitated the building of a new school in the adjacent Pinewood neighbourhood. For a number of months, the two schools were on shift awaiting the completion of Pinewood Elementary. ENROLLM E N T YEAR 1969 1973 1979 1982 1988 1991 1995 1999 2003 2007 2011 GRADES 1-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 K-7 # 205 483 418 407 428 474 426 390 321 288 207 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) P et er J ohnson’ s C la ss 19 89 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection S TA F F Westwood Elementary FIRST STAFF Colleen (Swift) Crossfield Frank Brown Wendy Thiel Kay Sawley Alice Perannio Caroline Schindler Dee Mitchell Colin Scott (principal) Westwoo d Sta ff 197 0 C olin Scot t , princ ipal Other early teachers were Marg Hufty, Carol Zogas and Gail Montgomery. Courtesy of Wendy Thiel, retired teacher VICE PRINCIPALS PRINCIPALS Colin Scott Norm Arnold Larry Finden Donna Dojack Jack Morrison Tony Cable Teresa Saunders Kathy Richardson Gervin Halladay Paul Bennett Maurice Vignal Lee Bleecker Jack Morrison Conrad Kowalenko Lynda Stoppler Chris Dugdale (zone VP) Franziska Karlon-Ng (zone VP) Nancy Armstrong Kathie Hilder Joyce Willows Westwood Elementary Did You Know? I n the spring of 1969, a school district memo asked that teachers submit their names if they were interested in working in an “openarea school”. Those selected met with the principal, Colin Scott, and developed a school philosophy. The emphasis was on students being responsible for their own actions and learning. I n the spring of 1970, four thirdyear University of Victoria students Bac k C over “N ew Nons ense From the Nor th” came to Westwood as “interns” to SD 57 Education Heritage Collection learn teaching methods first-hand. One or two interns were assigned to a teacher and spent the remainder of the school year and all of the next year doing on-the-job training in the classroom full-time. They did their university courses during the summer. Many of these interns stayed in the district once they completed the program. It did not continue after the first year. I n 1990-1991, Mrs. Thomson’s class wrote letters to Cpl. Jeff West, the uncle of a boy in the class, in Qatar. He was working as an aero-engine technician for the F-18 Hornet fighter aircraft. The Prince George Citizen reported on the students’ letter writing in January 1991 and CKPG filmed the class for the news on January 24, 1991. I n 1995, Karma Vance’s grade 3 class wrote a picture book and entered it in the national Kids Are Authors Competition, sponsored by Great Owl Books. Their book, New Nonsense from the North, was selected as the winning entry from 124 entries across Canada. Each student received a copy of the published book, an award medallion, a framed certificate and a T-shirt. The school received $1000 that P r o g r a m f o r 1 9 9 5 “ K i d s A r e A u t h o r s ” A w a r d was used to purchase a computer that SD 57 Education Heritage Collection could be borrowed by classes for extended periods. The class received congratulatory letters from Prime Minister Jean Chretien, Governor-General Romeo LeBlanc, B. C. Premier Glen Clark and B.C. Lieutenant-Governor Garde Gardom. ACTIVITIES Westwood Elementary One afternoon a week, during the first years that the school was in operation, the staff organized cross-grade instruction in various art, crafts, music and sports activities. They often invited guest experts to instruct the multi-age groups. From 1969-1972, Wendy Thiel organized a Red Cross Club. Every class had a representative and this group met regularly to organize fund-raising events. Most of the funds raised were sent to the Red Cross for overseas relief. The group also purchased a hobby horse and donated it to a program for physically handicapped children. For many years the principal, Colin Scott, directed an intermediate choir that participated in the district choir festival. He also was an active member of the Prince George Theatre Workshop amateur theatre group and had the staff members regularly participate in the club’s productions, from acting to lighting to costumes to set-building to props. There have been numerous theme days over the years including Teddy Bear Day, Hat Day (from Mad Hatter Day to Easter Bonnets), Crazy Hair Day, Careers Day, Heritage Day, Pajama Day, July in January, Snack Day, Twins Day and Harry Potter Day. Wi ld li fe Bi olo gi s t at C ar eer Da y 199 4 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection M ad Hatter Day 19 71 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Car eer Day 19 94 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Heritag e D ay 198 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Westwood Elementary Other extracurricular activities through the years have included Library Club, Chess Club, a Newspaper Club that produced “The Westwood Wire”, Student Council, Art Club plus Babysitting, First Aid and Food Safe courses. “T h e W e s tw o o d W i r e ” M a st h e ad 19 91 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection W e s tw o o d St u d e n t Co u n ci l 199 2 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Special events have included science fairs, dances, book fairs, variety shows, an egg drop, Christmas craft and caroling evenings and Christmas concerts. Numerous field trips have been arranged over the years including trips to Bear Lake, Fort St. James, the Flying “U” Ranch and Barkerville. As well, various classes were taken swimming, skiing and roller skating. Chr istm as Conc er t P r ogr am 2 000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Westwo od Sc ienc e Fair 198 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection C la ss at F ly ing “U ” Ranc h 197 7 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Bear La ke Fiel d Tr ip 197 6 Courtesy of Phil Nellis, retired teacher S P O RTS Westwood Elementary Through the years, school teams have included basketball, volleyball, floor hockey, cross-country running (at locations such as Peden Hill, Rainbow Park and Beaverly), track and field and the relays at Massey/Masich Stadium. There have also been special sporting events such as Jump Rope for Heart, Winter Sports Day, Primary Sports Day and Intermediate Sports Day. W i n te r Sp o r t s D ay 197 4 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Boy s Fl oor Hoc key Team 19 92 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection W e st w o o d W i l dc at s Cr o ss Co u n tr y R u n n e rs 198 8 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Westwood Elementary WESTWOOD GARDEN PROJECT In 2005, Barb Rayment, owner of Birch Creek Nursery and the local Evergreen Canada Consultant, mentioned to teacher-librarian Diane Sales that funds were available to help create community gardens. She took the idea to the principal, Tony Cable, and his enthusiasm spurred her on. The school secured a $2000 Toyota Evergreen Grant on November 15, 2005. The students began edging grass around the fence lines but it became evident that heavy equipment and more money would be needed to get the garden design properly implemented. Grant applications and pleas in the school newsletter got the project successfully underway. They received monetary grants from the South Bowl Community Association and Communities in Bloom. In kind donations included a boom truck to move and plant the huge trees, limestone crush, gravel, lumber and building supplies for the bridges, tile and concrete for the stepping stones, mulch and refreshments for the volunteers. One Saturday, a bobcat was hired to remove the grass off the garden area. Next, the gravel was delivered and the students raked and contoured a hill as well as dug out a stream bed. Each class designed a large stepping stone and these were used to create a path. The project also received a Home Depot Energy Project Grant that was used to complete jobs that were too heavy for the students. Fourteen Home Depot employees worked one day to mix and install the hypertufa (a cement and aggregate mixture) edging. The names of the Garden Club members, Home Depot helpers and project sponsors were stamped into the wet hypertufa. Volunteer adults and SD57 employees cemented rocks in part of the stream bed and constructed two wooden bridges. The students planted many trees, native shrubs and flowering plants as well as moved mountains of mulch. In July, the Westwood Garden was awarded first place in the Community Category in the Prince George Garden Contest. The National Communities in Bloom judges toured the site in August 2005. We stwood Gar den Courtesy of Diane Sales, retired teacher In 2006-2007, the garden design had to be revised when the School District removed the wooden adventure playground from the centre of the garden. Three benches were installed, the river stones were cemented into the stream bed, a second set of large stepping stones was created, the spiral granite path was cemented, and rock edging was installed around the hill. The children planted many more trees, shrubs and flowering plants plus ornamental grasses. Donations were received from Toyota Evergreen, South Bowl Community Association, Communities in Bloom, Inland Concrete, B.C. Teachers’ Federation Social Justice Grants and Spectra Energy. Westwood Elementary The following year, additional plants, a stained glass hopscotch stepping stone designed by Westwood teacher Karma Vance, a waterfall, a large donated bird feeder and a pond garden were added. Many organizations and businesses again made donations. The garden received media attention in The Prince George Citizen and Evergreen’s The Outdoor Classroom, a university research paper about children and gardening. The International Communities in Bloom judges visited the garden in August 2008. In the fall of 2008, the students planted five Patmore Ash trees to complete the row along Vanier Drive. In the spring, a third set of large class stepping stones was made and more trees, flowering plants, grasses and shrubs were added. A second chess table was also installed with sponsor money. The garden was featured in Toyota’s fall/winter 2008 magazine, The Prince George Free Press on May 22, 2009 and The Prince George Citizen. In September 2009, the students planted daffodils, shrubs and flowering plants plus wildflowers and grasses. Concrete table pads were poured and decorated, chess tables were installed, stepping stones were repaired and each class planted one of the fourteen new birch trees purchased through the BC Government’s Trees for Tomorrow Program. In June 2010, two new stepping stones were created—one to honour the 2010 garden volunteers and the other to honour the 2009 B.C. Green Games winners. The official garden opening party and ribbon-cutting was on June 11, 2010, with representatives attending from Evergreen Canada, Toyota TD Friends of the Environment, BCTF Social Justice, Carrier Sekani Chief and elders, Home Depot, Communities in Bloom, Sterling Crane and South Bowl Community Association. Invited guests included all of the sponsors and in kind donators, parents, students and staff. Articles about the garden were published in the BCTF Social Justice Newsletter Summer 2009, The Prince George Citizen, Evergreen Newsletter Fall 2009 and Fall 2010, Evergreen blog 2010/07/27/how-to-build-a-mosaic-path/, and GardenWise Magazine Spring 2010. R i b bo n Cut t i ng Cer em ony June 1 1, 2010 Courtesy of Diane Sales, retired teacher Westwood Elementary STREAM OF DREAMS PROJECT During the spring of 2007, the staff and students participated in the Stream of Dreams project resulting in 473 wooden fish swimming on the chainlink fence beside the garden. Late in 2008, the students participated in a second Stream Of Dreams workshop resulting in an additional 320 fish on the fence. Candice Snake, Westwood’s aboriginal education worker, provided instruction for children to paint fish in the west coast first nations’ ovoid tradition. The wooden fish were cut out and primed by the inmates at the Prince George Correctional Institute. A local sign painter decorated large fish with the sponsors’ names to add to the fence. W e s tw o o d F i s h F e n c e 200 7 Courtesy of Diane Sales, retired teacher ABORIGINAL GARDEN PROJECT After two years of research, an aboriginal garden was created in 2007-2008 as an extension to the original garden. Angela Sanderson, Westwood’s aboriginal education worker, Stella George, SD #57 aboriginal culture instructor, and Diane Sales, teacher-librarian and garden designer, collaborated on the ethno-botanical design, plant material and artistic creations. Stella designed the huge stepping stones representing the cardinal points of the compass and animals important to First Nation culture for the four entrances to the garden. Volunteer adults dug the borders of the outer garden with the students taking buckets of rocks to the dumpsters for disposal. Then, volunteer adults and older students installed concrete forms and rebar. Under the guidance of the school district maintenance crew, the concrete was poured for the support walls, four entrance stones and the central tiled medicine wheel. The students added the first plants, trees, shrubs and ornamental grasses to the garden and several native species plants were ordered from specialty growers for the following spring. Four picnic tables were also installed. Since then, more flowering plants, Ab o r i gi n a l Ga rd e n P la n 20 08 grasses, wildflowers and shrubs have been added. School Brochure GREEN GAMES Westwood Elementary In 2008-2009, a group of eight grade 7 students won the B.C. Green Games contest with a Power Point presentation about the building of the gardens. The B.C. Green Games is a contest from the B.C. Ministry of Education and Science World designed to encourage students to document and share projects that make positive changes in their school communities relating to sustainable development, greenhouse gas reduction or environmental stewardship. Ten elementary and ten secondary schools were awarded $2000 prizes for their efforts. Westwood’s $2000 prize purchased a chess table for the centre of the original garden. These eight students also produced a booklet about the importance and uses of the plants in the aboriginal garden. I nfor ma t i on on Ya rr ow P la nt 200 8 School Brochure Memories The garden project has given all of us—administrators, students, teachers and community—a great sense of pride and satisfaction. The students love to dig and create new areas, float bark mulch down the collection stream after a rainfall, play stepping stone tag through the garden, and watch the plants grow. It is a source of wonder for the students to see the plants reappear in the spring as many are so sure each fall that the garden is gone for good. Some of our students who help with the garden at lunch hour find companionship with other students as they strive to keep the garden looking its best. Many evenings, community members stroll through the garden, looking at the stepping stones, admiring the fish on the fence, checking out the plant growth, pulling weeds, and sitting on our benches and picnic tables. The local daycares have picnics in the garden on sunny days. Westwood loves our garden. Diane Sales 2012, retired teacher Westwood Elementary In 1969, I was teaching in Victoria, using an individualized learning model, when I was offered a job in Prince George. I was contacted by Colin Scott, the principal of a new open-area school, and he interviewed me over the phone for almost an hour. He then sent me the philosophy for Westwood Elementary and asked me to write comments and return it. I was then assigned to teach at Westwood which opened the following September. During my three years at the school, students in all classes used independent project cards that included self-tracking and marking. We used teacher conferences, student portfolios and tracking sheets to confirm student progress. Teachers would regularly work together with large groups and cross-grade teaching also occurred. Wendy Thiel 2012, retired teacher I had two particularly memorable field trips. The first was a tent trip to Bear Lake. One night there was a rainstorm, while we were trying to cook pork chops over a campfire, so we were a bit hungry that night. The next day, there was a flying ant invasion that turned my car into a living organism and had ants finding their way into food, sleeping bags and pillows. There were a number of fairly hysterical children who refused to sleep in their tents that night and ended up on the floor of the tent trailer that we had brought with us. The second memorable field trip was to the Flying U Ranch at Green Lake. The students were each assigned a horse and, on the first trail ride, one girl had her horse throw her off while crossing a road. She landed hard on her hands and broke both her wrists. We took her into the nearest hospital and called her parents. The girl convinced her parents to let her stay so she returned to the ranch with two casts. Her friends rallied around to help her with all the tasks she couldn’t manage and she did enjoy her week. Phil Nellis 2012, retired teacher Fly ing “U ” R ib b on Courtesy of Phil Nellis, retired teacher One day, three Westwood students decided to build a fort. The little dog in the yard they chose was happy to see them and promptly escaped. The children found some boards and a snow shovel and made a wonderful fort! The yard’s owner was not impressed. He phoned the vice-principal, Mrs. Stoppler, to have her put a stop to the fort. Mrs. Stoppler didn’t know whose fort it was so she decided to stake it out. She took her novel and her binoculars and hid in the yard. Soon the builders came to play in their fort and Mrs. Stoppler caught them red-handed. Back went the boards, back went the snow shovel and back to the school went Mrs. Stoppler and the children. The yard owner was happy because his dog was safe at home. Mrs. Stoppler was happy because she got to play “I Spy.” The children were happy because they found a better place to build their fort. Ba rr el R a cing a t Fly ing “U ” Courtesy of Phil Nellis, retired teacher Rita Bouchard, Karma Vance and Diane Sales 2012, teachers Secondary Schools College Heights D.P. Todd Duchess Park Kelly Road Mackenzie McBride Prince George Valemount College Heights Secondary 6180 Domano Boulevard, Prince George 1977 to Pr esent MISSION STATEMENT College Heights Secondary School will create a learning community that, through collaboration with students, parents, and staff, builds a framework for all students to achieve their learning outcomes and to demonstrate individual success. Co ll e g e He i g h ts Se c o n da ry 20 11 Courtesy of Aleta MacFadden, retired teacher HISTORY College Heights Secondary took its name from the College Heights subdivision, which was named after the catholic high school, Prince George College. College Heights started in the fall of 1977 on shift with John McInnis Junior Secondary. There were 447 students and 25 staff that first year. The move into the new school happened in February 1978 with a ceremonial run by students from McInnis to the new location on Domano Blvd. C ar ry i n g th e F la gs 19 78 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection College Heights Secondary An official opening ceremony for College Heights was held on May 5, 1978, attended by the architect, Alan Greenwell and Minister of Education, Pat McGeer. C onst r uct ion o f Schoo l 1 977 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The original plan was to build College Heights in three stages but the school population grew rapidly and portables had to be placed in the parking lot. In 1980, phase two was completed when 10 regular classrooms, an art room and a science lab were added on the south and east sides of the school. Several Ministers of Education came to the school and promised that phase three would go ahead, but it was not until 2008 that a version of that plan was actually built. In the meantime, students from Beaverly were bussed to John McInnis to relieve the crowding. The third renovaO ffi ci a l Openi ng P r ogr am 19 78 tion included an entirely new office, SD 57 Education Heritage Collection staffroom and counseling area where the band room used to be, a multipurpose room where the office used to be and a set of stairs to take the place of a ramp. College Heights returned to its original catchment area in 2010 after the closure of John McInnis. From 1990 to 2006, the principal of College Heights was also the principal of the Youth Containment Centre. YCC had its own vice-principal to handle the day-to-day operations. College Heights Secondary ENROLLMENT YEAR GRADES 1977 8-10 1978 8-11 1981 8-12 1982 8-12 1983 8-12 1987 8-12 1992 8-12 1997 8-12 2002 8-12 2007 8-12 2011 8-12 # 447 576 752 844 936 1065 979 1066 967 817 952 H ang ing Out 198 7 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) SD 57 Education Heritage Collection College Heights started with grades 8 to 10, but was always intended to become a senior secondary school. In 1978-1979, grade 11 was added and grade 12 in 19791980. College Heights has always had a mix of students from suburban and rural areas. Some students could walk to school and others had to take long bus rides. Transportation was a problem for students wanting to stay after school to participate in sports. In t he H al lw ay 198 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection G ir ls Nig ht Out 199 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection College Heights Secondary S TA F F PRINCIPALS Jim Imrich Terry Ryan Bob Lindsay Fred Egglestone Verne Thompson Fred Egglestone Rene Schweizer Chris Molcak Faith Mackay FIRST STAFF J. Agostinis M. Beattie P. Bihun J. Botham K. Carson J. Cha S. Doknick D. Goodwin S. Graham C. Kelly D. Kenward B. Kuroda B. MacDonald A. MacFadden K. McKierahan P. Marsh L. Maynard G. Monteith D. Mullis B. Ormond G. Osborne M. Penner O. Salava R. Somers B. Wold VICE PRINCIPALS Kerry Firth Nevio Rossi Jim McMillan Jenny Rankin Bob Attoe Randy Halpape Bendina Rossler Rod White Fred Egglestone Gro Averil Fred Bolton Parrish Child Sharon Cairns Naveed Niasi Rene Schweizer Gary Wadson Art Reed Curtis MacDonald Tim Chute Timma Fonseca Youth Containment Centre Brian Toll Mike Bell Cale Birk Ted Renquist Col l ege Hei ght s St aff 1 994 Courtesy of John Botham, retired teacher College Heights Secondary U N I Q U E P R O G R A M S AT C O L L E G E H E I G H T S Grade Eight Program This program involved reducing the number of teachers the grades 8’s had contact with. The same teacher taught Social Studies 8 and English 8, and another teacher taught both Math 8 and Science 8. The program was eventually dropped due to teacher burnout and timetable constraints. Japanese Sister School College Heights has been twinned with Dai-Ichi High School-Daito-Bunka University in Tokyo, Japan since 2003. As well as individual students going on a one-year exchange, there is also a two-week trip to Tokyo each fall for a larger group of CHS students. A group of Japanese students comes to Prince George in the summer to experience the Canadian lifestyle. Ja panes e Sis ter Sc hool 20 11 Courtesy of Allison McNeill, teacher Career Preparation Although now a district-wide offering, Career Prep/Work Experience originated at College Heights with the work of Jim Rose, an industrial education teacher at the school. This program allows students to experience the workplace while still in high school. Wor k E xperienc e 19 84 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection College Heights Secondary ACADEMICS & LEADERSHIP College Heights has always had an academic focus and many students have received district scholarships over the years. The students are also known for their communityservice. Students from College Heights captured Prince George’s “Youth of the Year” award for five consecutive years, from 2008 to 2012. 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 Janine Reilander Manpreet Sidhu Sufey Chen Ashley Schmeisser Gurbind Deo BUSY VOLUNTEER WINS YOUTH OF YEAR AWARD Manpreet Kaur Sidhu, whose average was 97 percent in grade 11 and is now in grade 12 at College Heights Secondary, is focusing her energy on the Indo-Canadian youth and how to engage them in volunteerism. “I want to encourage youth involvement in the community,” said Sidhu. “I want to empower the youth to make a difference in the community, because they really can.” Recently, she helped organize a seminar on gang violence, and her youth group donated blankets to the Elizabeth Fry Society, stuffed animals to the pediatrics department at the hospital and also helped raise funds for the playground there too… “I plan to stay in Prince George because I love it here,” said Sidhu. “I will go to UNBC for my bachelor of science and then on to medical school to be a doctor. I want to go to different countries to help people, then settle in Prince George.” Advanced Placement College Heights began offering AP courses in mathematics, biology, chemistry, art and literature in 1990. This allowed students to obtain university credits while still in high school. Later, the number of AP subjects dropped to just mathematics and literature due to declining enrollment and the cost of running smaller classes. In grades 8 through 11, school level honors classes were available in math and english. Leadership Class In 2005, a leadership class was started by Mrs. Cindy Smith and continues today. Many activities are organized by this class for the benefit of the school and the community, including pancake breakfasts, 30 Hour Famine and making hats for cancer patients. June 13, 2009 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen M an p r e e t S i d hu 2 0 0 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection G R A D U AT I O N College Heights Secondary The first graduating class of College Heights Secondary was the class of 1980. The valedictorian and outstanding graduate was Angela Prendergast. Unlike more recent years, the grad dance was held after the ceremony and the banquet. The American tradition of “Prom” had not yet become popular in Canada. Each year, the grads chose a teacher to be the guest speaker at the Valedictory Ceremony. F ir st G r ad u at i n g Cl as s 1 9 8 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Re c e i vi n g Di p l o m as 198 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection College Heights Secondary Initially, the ceremony was held in the school gym. This made for many challenges for the teachers and students organizing the event. There was limited space for guests, no air conditioning, and parts of the stage seemed to go missing every year. In spite of the best efforts of the decorating committee, the gym still looked like a gym. When the new Civic Centre opened in 1994, it was an obvious choice to move the ceremony there. Cl a ss of 201 1 Courtesy of Cindy Smith, teacher In the past, there was a lot of fundraising associated with graduation: selling wood, raffle tickets and bake sales. When many students started working at jobs outside of school, they decided to go with a straight fee instead. ATHLETICS College Heights Secondary As field space was limited, teaching physical education was quite a challenge when College Heights first opened. By the third year, the doubling of the school population meant the P.E. teachers had to be quite creative in finding places to run their classes. Now, the old gravel pit has become quite an asset with its mature grass fields, tennis courts and running track. Many P.E. classes have been given the dreaded assignment to “run the pit” on that track. St u de n ts F o r m C . H. S. S. Elmer Giesbrecht, photographer G ra de 8 G ir l s B a sk e tb a ll 1 9 8 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection College Heights had the usual volleyball and basketball teams when it opened as well as soccer, rugby and wrestling teams. While not a sports powerhouse, CHS has won provincial championships over the years: 1983,1988 1985 1989,1990 2004 Cross-country Running AA Girls Volleyball Nordic Skiing Boys Curling B o ys P ro v in ci a l C u rl i n g Ch a mp s 2 0 0 4 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Grant Erickson, a CHS teacher, resurrected high school football in the district and the College Heights team won the Prince George Bowl event in 2004, 2005 and 2006. Footb al l Team 20 04 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection College Heights Secondary ACTIVITIES While some activities appear year after year, others have fallen out of fashion with the students. During the first decades of College Heights, there were winter carnivals, Christmas concerts, open houses, slave days and career days. Pep Rallies became Recognition Ceremonies and then back to Pep Rallies again. The dunk tank was a favourite, especially when a teacher was the intended victim. Another hit with the student body was the Guitar Wars competition and it continues to this day. M as cot 2 001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Assemblies could be very unDunk Tank 198 0 comfortable for those students SD 57 Education Heritage Collection who had to sit on the gym floor for an hour or more. One of the perks of being in grade 12 was that those students were allowed to sit on the bleachers in the upper gym. The school mascot, a large blue cougar, could be counted on to provide comic relief. I n the Bl eac hers 198 8 Guitar War s 2 003 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection SD 57 Education Heritage Collection College Heights Secondary Dances used to be held three or four times a year, but the most popular has always been the Halloween Dance. It gave students and teachers a chance to be someone different and it is the only one that can now compete with teen dances at CN Centre. On the Friday afternoon before the Christmas holidays, a mixed boys and girls hockey team from College Heights plays a team from Prince George Secondary. Students from both schools are bussed to the CN Centre to watch and cheer. Hockey Tea m 2 004 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection EXTRACURRICULAR In addition to the out-of-school trips to places in Europe, California and Egypt, there have been curriculum-related trips to Quebec and Mt. Robson. Another popular trip is S.A.L.T.S. (Sailing and Life Training Society). Each September a group of students has traveled to the Lower Mainland to learn how to sail a ship and work as a team. Tillicum (people or friend) Tillicum started as a student-run concession stand under the sponsorship of Mr. Kuroda. It operated at lunch, dances and tournaments. Initially the funds raised were used for scholarships, team uniforms and the yearbook. Tillicum is now run by parents and students from the S.A.L.T.S. group and money for bursaries and teams comes from the vending machine sales. Sa iling T rip 2002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection College Heights Secondary Did You Know? he outside wall of the library was accidentally caved in twice by equipment working nearby. The teacher-librarians and their library clerks had to move all the books from the stacks and then put them back again. T W hen the school was first built, they accidentally plumbed hot water into the water fountain near the gym and into the toilets in the staffroom. T he Mushroom Room started as an unfinished space where the Music Room is now. Because it had a dirt S chool Lib ra ry 19 94 floor and poor lighting, Jim Imrich, the SD 57 Education Heritage Collection first principal of CHS, said it was only good for growing mushrooms. The name stuck, even when a concrete floor was put in so that the room could be used for student activities such as drama. W hen the school population increased before phase two of construction was completed, portables had to be brought in. Unfortunately, they were three weeks late in arriving and as a result three math classes had to be placed in the upper gym. Mr. Monteith, one of the math teachers, was not impressed when the noise of volleyball season started! C ollege Heights Secondary has had three different addresses and three different postal codes. When CHS first opened, there was some confusion as to whether the address was to be 6180 Trent Drive or 6184 Domano Blvd. The latter was chosen and lasted until 2004, when the school board changed the address to 6180 Domano Blvd. C ollege Heights and D.P. Todd have always been rivals, probably due to being constructed at the same time and being of a similar size. In the early 1980’s, D.P.Todd students dumped about 400 crickets in the hallway outside of room 261 just before the bell rang. Chaos ensued! Luckily, the day custodian, Mrs. Gavric, had the smart idea to suck up the crickets with the industrial vacuum cleaner. Still, one lonely cricket was heard chirping behind the lockers for many weeks afterward. M at h C la ss 197 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection College Heights Secondary Memories First Day of School In my first grade 8 boys P.E. class we were all sitting in the upper gym. Our teacher, Mr. Kenward, walked in, went over to the weight machine and lifted the entire stack of weights. He then turned to the class and announced:“OK, boys, there won’t be any problems in this class.” Rick Bennett 2012, former student and now teacher at College Heights Weig ht M ac hine 19 80 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The Heating System A major topic of conversation in the early days of College Heights was the poor quality of the heating system. On the same day, we had one classroom at 9°C and another at 30°C. During a cold spell in the winter, the temperature just below the windows was -5°C. Connected to this issue was the poor air quality. Many teachers felt that this led to “sick building syndrome” amongst the staff. Aleta MacFadden 2012, retired teacher College Heights Secondary The Early Years What was CHSS like in its first years? DT: It was probably not all that different from today. All the classes were small. The gymnasium was nice. Everything was new and clean and wonderful. What challenges did you have to face attending a brand new school? DT: The field was not developed. There was only a soccer field and no cafeteria… There is still no cafeteria. DT: No kidding? I’m surprised. Dr. Drew Tkachuk, 1980 graduate. Excerpt from an interview in the College Heights Yearbook 2003. Stand Up for Education That was the slogan for the withdrawal of service campaign in October 2005. Rather than take the advice of the sign I was carrying, I sat down on the job. Well, I didn't sit on the ground; I sat in a wheelchair. The campaign was quite successful at securing the support of the public as evidenced by people who kept a regular supply of Tim Hortons’ coffee flowing. That public support was, in large part, due to the sympathy I managed to secure while sitting in a wheel chair, with a cast and large boot placed in prominent view, after having recently experienced surgery to fuse my large toe. And to make sure that people driving by did not miss the point, I wheeled around in the chair to entice as many honks as possible. Picket duty was a great time to esP ick et Line 200 5 Courtesy of Aleta MacFadden, retired teacher cape the solitude of the classroom and fraternize with one's colleagues, secure in the notion that these collective actions were sure to change the way the world turns. Not only was this a great time for conversation, we were also able to enjoy the culinary delights of Andrew Richards barbecuing a feast of Keg style steaks, salad and prawns. Picket duty in a wheelchair was a great opportunity for camaraderie and putting one's best foot forward. Harold Dawes 2012, retired teacher D.P. Todd Secondary 4444 Hill Avenue, Prince George 1977 to Present “Dedication, Perseverance and Thought Obtain Desired Dreams.” Mission Statement We will provide a safe environment which will promote the intellectual, cultural, physical and social development of all D.P. Todd students. We would like our students to become productive, responsible and adaptable members of our ever changing society. D.P. Todd Secondary 2014 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History D.P. Todd Secondary School was established in 1977. The school, located in the Heritage subdivision, was named after a former School District #57 superintendent, David Park Todd. When the School District decided to open a new school, Wayne Desharnais, principal, and Art Reed, vice principal, hand picked the staff and planned for the September opening. Wayne Desharnais was seconded to the Ministry of Education and moved to Victoria before the school opened. As the new building was not yet completed, school started on shift at Lakewood Junior Secondary in September 1977 under the leadership of principal Phil Caswell and vice principal Art Reed. D.P. Todd shared Lakewood’s facility with Lakewood students attending the morning session while D.P. Todd students attended in the afternoon. Throughout the fall semester, the administration, along with business manager Carrol Johnson and POSRs (Position of Special Responsibility) Bill James and Bob Viergever, worked hard to have the school completely outfitted with furniture, books, supplies and equipment in time for a second semester opening in the new building. D.P. Todd Secondary The move to the new school took place in early February 1978. The Great Trek involved a celebration in Lakewood’s gym, a bus ride to D.P. Todd and the formation of the school logo on the front lawn. The day was capped off with a sock hop in the school gym and tours of the new school. The Great Trek 1978 Courtesy of D.P. Todd Secondary The official opening of the school was held on September 29, 1978. Dave Todd was the guest of honour. Students remember when Mr. Reed said: “D.P. Todd, meet D.P. Todd.” Mr. Todd performed some magic tricks and, to the amazement of staff and students, allowed the president of the Students’ Council to smoke a cigarette on stage as part of his act. Official Opening of D.P.Todd Secondary Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen October 2, 1978 D.P. Todd Secondary ENROLLMENT YEAR 1977 1978 1979 1982 1984 1987 1992 1997 2002 2007 2014 GRADE 8-10 7-11 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 # 473 679 673 730 756 735 725 656 724 748 642 D.P. Todd students 1982 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) The school began with only grades 8 to 10 and an additional grade was added every year until the first grade 12 class graduated in 1980. Heritage Elementary, Highglen Elementary (prior to its fire) and Highland Elementary (prior to its closure) were the original feeder schools and Heritage continues to be. At one point, students in grade 7 at Foothills Elementary had the option to attend D.P. Todd Secondary or Lakewood Junior Secondary. Similarly, Lakewood’s grade 10 students could choose D.P. Todd or Prince George Secondary School. D.P. Todd was classified as a neighbourhood school with most students living within walking distance. This gave them the opportunity to go home at lunch until the lunch break was reduced to 45 minutes. There were no bus students, initially, but in later years students living on Cranbrook Hill could be bussed to D.P. Todd. When school boundaries were opened, D.P. Todd became a popular choice due to the enrichment program, the band program and the sense of belonging that could be maintained in a school of 750 students. Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen June 17, 1980 D.P. Todd Secondary FIRST STAFF Judy Addie John Belfie Helen Birdsall Honora Bryan Heather Cozens Tom Drown Carol Fraser Linda Goetzinger Leslie Gordon Sam Hannah Gord Hay Lesley Hay Janice Hill Don Jack Bill James Carrol Johnson Rene Joly Rob Little D.P. Todd staff 1990 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Doug Mason Maria Mauro Garvin Moles John McCorkell Jane Neilsen Frank Ogrinc Mirco Pastro Maggie Ramage Dave Speck Bill Stewart Linda (Whitesel) Shaw Maureen Tempest Joanne Tuck Bob Viergever John Vogt Gloria Wade PRINCIPALS Wayne Desharnais Philip Caswell George Harris Jim Smith Wendy Herbert Bruce Jansen Rene Schweizer Garry Hartley Brian Toll Richard Dougherty Faith MacKay VICE PRINCIPALS Art Reed Norm Monroe Peter Corcoran Robin Temoin Garry Hartley Sharon Cairns Rene Schweizer Brian Toll Ray Roch Rusty Rustemeyer Nevio Rossi Sid Jawanda Lisa Norman Sarah Petrisor D.P. Todd Secondary UNIQUE PROGRAMS LEADERSHIP PROGRAM In the early 1990s, principal Wendy Herbert attended an administrators’ conference and came back with the idea of a leadership program. She asked teacher Don Homan to start a program at D.P. Todd and it was the first leadership class in the district. In Leadership 11 and 12, students have the potential of receiving eight graduation credits as well as learning leadership skills. The program targets D.P. Todd students, feeder school students and the community. The focus for D. P Todd’s students has been Spirit Weeks with special activities such as pumpkin carving, Christmas cookie decorating and Valentine’s Day candygrams. Leadership students also organize a Remembrance Day assembly that is entirely a student production. Leadership students have always had a strong bond with the feeder elementary schools. Teams of D. P. Todd students work on a range of activities such as Hoops for Hearts, Jump Rope for Heart, Healthy Schools workshops, as well as sports days, dances, sock hops and Spirit Week activities. Outreach activities in the community include visits to seniors’ residences, St. Vincent de Paul and other community agencies. Some leadership students choose the yearbook option. They are responsible for creating, marketing and delivering yearbooks to approximately 400 students each year. Students working on yearbook 1991 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection ENRICHMENT PROGRAM D.P. Todd developed an enrichment program in 1995 to provide an opportunity to challenge students with a more stimulating curriculum. Science 90 gave students a grade 9 and 10 program in their grade 9 year, allowing them to start taking grade 11 science courses in grade 10. Socials 90 followed the same pattern. Grade 8 students were also given an opportunity to participate in enrichment classes in all four academic areas. Students were recommended by their grade 7 teachers and screened by the grade 8 staff and principal. D.P. Todd Secondary MUSIC PROGRAM D.P. Todd has a long and proud tradition of having a very active and high quality music program. As the largest music program in Prince George there currently are six performing groups with over 150 students involved in a year-long program of great music and enthusiastic team spirit. The performing groups include concert bands, jazz bands, small wind ensembles and vocal choirs. Mr. Doug Mason was the first D.P. Todd Band Director. As the founder of the music program, he was crucial in making music a deep part of the character of the school. When Mr. Mason left D.P. Todd in 1988, Mrs. Susan Klein joined the teaching staff as the new Band Director and has been there ever since. Throughout the years, together with a very strong and supportive band parent organization, D.P. Todd has hosted elegant cabaret jazz nights, band festivals, outstanding concerts and yearly band trips throughout North America. Groups are consistently recommended to Music Fest Canada and have had outstanding success in band festivals in Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, Toronto, Ottawa and San Diego. Band Director Doug Mason 1985 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection One of four D.P. Todd bands 1991 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection There is a component of community outreach within the program that brings music to the community by performing at retirement homes, hospitals, and schools as well as various fund raising events and community celebrations such as the 2010 Olympic Torch Ceremony. The annual band trip offers opportunities to make those musical connections nationally and internationally. During a trip to Cuba, there was a chance to experience the culture and education system plus the incredible music that is so prevalent in the lives of the people. Humanitarian support to schools and orphanages was also provided. D.P. Todd Secondary PRE-EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM The Pre-Employment Program was started by Judy Addie in 1978-79. This program continues today and has expanded throughout the district. As a Learning Assistance teacher, Mrs. Addie saw the need for a program to address the concerns of students who were falling through the cracks. The Pre-Employment Program (PEP) provides students with academic upgrading, life skills and work experience to prepare for their adult life. Jack Lunden was the first Work Experience officer and arranged work placements in the community. The staff saw incredible transformations as the students achieved success in school and in the workplace. Students who successfully completed the goals of their Individualized Education Plans participated in the Valedictory Ceremony with their grade 12 peers. They received a School Completion certificate and entered the work force with several work experience placements to add to their resumes. DRAMA AND FILM When D.P. Todd opened, drama and music shared the same space. Years later, it is hard to imagine how it worked so well, but it did. When the programs grew large, it was Art Reed who helped bring about a separate space for drama. With the growth of the drama program, and more room, film production courses were offered and these flourished. Some of my best memories include Allan and Alex performing “Ebony and Ivory” at one of the many air band contests, having “For Crying Out Loud” be the opening play for the B.C. Festival of the Arts when it was held in Prince George in 1986, the huge success of Monday Night at the Movies with students and staff performing together along with one elementary school actor, Dylan. I am proud of the numerous successes at provincial drama festivals (“Home Free”, “1000 Cranes”, “The Shape of a Girl”) and the incredible creations of the film students. A great number of our students have been able to pursue their passion for theatre and film professionally. Kudos to them! Most important was how many students found a place for themselves in the studio and a safe environment where they could challenge themselves in many different ways. Linda Riches, Drama and Film teacher, 1983 to present For Crying Out Loud 1986 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection 1000 Cranes 1991 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection D.P. Todd Secondary GRADUATION The first graduating class was composed of the original grade 10 students as the school added a new grade each year. The 1980 graduation ceremony was held in the school gym with Judy Rubingh as the valedictorian and Dave Todd as the guest speaker. Early grad ceremonies were always held at the school with the ceremony in the afternoon and a dinner and dance in the evening. Grade 11 students, along with the help of the art teacher and the grad sponsor, transformed the gym into a formal venue for these special events. In the mid-1990s, the ceremony was moved to the Civic Centre with D.P. Todd Secondary and College Heights Secondary sharing the weekend and the decorating responsibilities. First grade 12 graduate with Dave Todd & Phil Caswell 1980 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection In the beginning, the ceremony was only open to grade 12 students who were in a regular program. This was changed in the 1980s to allow all students who completed their program at D.P. Todd to celebrate their achievements. Students in the Pre-Employment Program and students with special needs joined the other grade 12 students on this special day. The term Valedictory Ceremony was used to signify that it was truly a celebration of completion of the students’ time at D.P. Todd. Dry Grad activities have always been planned by the parents and supported by the school staff. Activities in the school gym, the Rollerdome, at Ness Lake Bible Camp and even at a river rafting location have ensured that students spent their grad night in a safe, alcohol-free venue. Graduation ceremony in the gymnasium 1982 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection D.P. Todd Secondary ATHLETICS With interscholastic and intramural programs for male and female students, athletics has played a strong role in developing school spirit and pride. Although volleyball and basketball have been the dominant sports, students have also competed in track and field, rugby, soccer, wrestling and tennis at the local and provincial levels. The team colours were originally pale blue and navy with a change to red, white and blue occurring in the early 1980’s. The original logo was changed to the D.P. Todd Trojan at the same time. Many staff members were involved with sports as a coach or teacher sponsor. Others offered recreational opportunities and clubs for the students at lunch or after school. Randy France, long time physical education teacher and coach, remembers a meeting in September 1978 at which 29 out of 33 teachers signed up to lead a club or coach a team. Senior Girls’ Basketball Team 1981-1982 Art Reed, coach SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Intramural sports have included floor hockey, volleyball, basketball and badminton. A staff versus student softball game was a popular June tradition. A house system was used in the first few years with every staff member and student assigned to a house. This was especially effective for the school-wide track and field meet and other full school activities. The change to the 45-minute lunch break affected the program and led to “open gym” activities rather than structured intramural leagues. Floor hockey remains a yearly event with girls’ teams (“Chicks with Sticks”) participating with the guys. D.P. Todd has been predominantly a volleyball school and had great success at provincials in the 1980’s and early 1990’s. In 1985, both the boys’ and girls’ teams were second in the province. Coach Randy France’s senior girls had an amazing three-year run. In 1988-1989 the D.P. Todd team was second in the province. The girls then went on to win the provincial championship in 1989-1990 and 1990-1991. Two of the young women on the team, Raeanne Mitchell and Joanna Jenkins, went on to play at the university level and are still involved with volleyball in their careers. D.P. Todd Secondary Senior Girls’ Provincial Volleyball Champions 1990-1991 Randy France, coach SD 57 Education Heritage Collection STUDENT ACTIVITIES When D.P. Todd opened in 1977, Bill James was the Student Activities coordinator and the key person in organizing the Great Trek to the new school. The original format was a students’ council with elected executive and class representatives. This evolved into the Trojan Leadership Committee (TLC) that was a group of interested senior students who organized school activities. Early activities and special events included the Great Trek, slave days and school-wide track meets. Spring into Summer and Fall into Winter were special days in which students were able to choose from a variety of activities which included juggling, yoga, Tai Chi, bowling, skiing, mountain biking, self-defense for women and many more. Staff and students shared their talents and their interests on these activity days. Other activities have been Gym Riots, staff-student games, pep rallies, hat days, formal days, Green Week, superhero days, western days and hockey jerseys days. The grade 8 ranch trips led by Art Reed and the grade 8 camps coordinated by Sean McKierahan and Peter Marsh created special memories for early D.P. Todd students. Grade 8 ranch trip 1979-1980 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection D.P. Todd Secondary Did You Know? T T he current drama studio was originally a metalwork shop and the Special Resource room was a drafting classroom. he lockers in the main hall were set up in pods with a bank of 6 lockers perpendicular to the hall until principal George Harris had them moved to line the hallway. Imagine how crowded the halls would have been with this setup? T he school’s first heating system was designed in California and failed to anticipate the complications of a northern climate. Students and staff always brought their winter jackets to class. D T I .P. Todd had two grade 7 classes in 1978-1979 due to overcrowding at Heritage Elementary. The grade 7 teachers were Sean McKierahan and Peter Marsh. here were three classes of Hunter Training in 1977-1978 where students received their C.O.R.E. certification that allowed them to get a hunting license. n the 1970s, a popular fundraising activity was to have Slave Day at which grade 8 students were “sold” to the highest bidder. The students were told to do various activities such as carrying their “master’s” books to class, cleaning the halls or lockers with a toothbrush of pushing pennies down the halls with their noses. Mr. Taylor would purchase a team of grade 8’s to pull his chariot (a science equipment cart) down the hallways. In its day, it was seen as a way to welcome the grade 8 students to the school. T I S D he first computer was stored in the bookroom and only certain teachers who were trained in this “new technology” could sign it out to show their classes. n the early years, only boys were allowed to take Industrial Education classes such as woodwork, metalwork and mechanics. Foods and textiles were for girls only. moking was permitted in a designated smoking area at school dances until the 1980s. .P. Todd continues to be a “no bells” school. The original staff made a decision not to have bells to indicate the start and end of classes. Although there are currently some warning signals, classes start and finish without bells. Mr. Taylor on his chariot during Slave Day 1979 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection D.P. Todd Secondary Memories As a French teacher, I often incorporated vocabulary into class skits. People would see groups from my classes rehearsing in the hallway and mistake them for drama students. One particularly strong group of grade 12s even did a French speaking Santa Claus skit during a school Christmas concert. Besides skits, students also enjoyed making sandwiches, doing aerobics routines, having fashion shows, writing autobiographies, creating comic strips, being exposed to French music and film, hearing travel presentations and singing verb conjugations. A major fun element of our department was incorporating games into learning. Woe to the teachers next door to us! The excitement level could sometimes get crazy…but so enthusiastic. Gail (Hunter) Kandal Gaal, French teacher 1979-2013 I have always felt a special connection to D.P. Todd Secondary. I attended school there from September 1979 until I graduated in June 1982. I came to D.P. Todd at the start of my grade 10 year. When I showed up, I was shocked at how friendly and open the students at the school were. I had attended a very tough school in another town so I had not experienced this before. I had a wonderful three years. This affection for D.P. Todd was further extended when I was lucky enough to be hired as a teacher in 1991 at the very school I graduated from. My years teaching at the school have been extremely rewarding. The students at D.P. Todd have always had a special place in my heart. Even my two sons have attended and graduated from D.P. Todd. Their experience has also been a very positive one. Having had D.P. Todd as such a significant part of my life has been wonderful. I hope I can finish my career at this school that has given me so much. Joe Pereira, Social Studies teacher 1991 to present I’ll always remember my last day at D.P. Todd in June 1997. I sat at my desk, with all my boxes packed around me, thinking, “I don’t want to leave here.” I was leaving behind such a big part of my life. I had been hired by Wayne Desharnais as part of the original staff of the new secondary school. That group of people quickly became a really cohesive group, putting our enthusiasm and talents together to create a really wonderful place to work and learn. I remember the first Christmas, when we were on afternoon shift at Lakewood Junior Secondary, and the staff put on a play for the students—“Drastic Plastic Toad” written by John McCorkell. I remember having my classroom right across from Heather Cozens’ foods and nutrition classes. The aromas of cinnamon, bacon, onions and other good things forced me to close my door or I’d have had to go across and invite myself in for samples. Home Economics had certainly changed from my high school years when we made applesauce and corn starch pudding! Bruce Taylor’s physics classes had ping-pong balls, paper airplanes and other things flying past the door, followed by students with tape measures and stopwatches. Biology students would periodically arrive to take swabs of the doorknobs, light switches and desktops and then would return a couple of weeks later to report how many dreadful things they found growing. Helen Birdsall, English teacher 1977 - 1997 D.P. Todd Secondary In May of 1980, Art Reed interviewed me because I was in grade 10 at Lakewood Junior Secondary School. I wanted to try out for D.P. Todd’s volleyball team and play with them the last 2 years of high school. Mr. France was a fantastic coach and his sense of humour is well known. Mr. Taylor, physics teacher, had the best lectures especially when he drew all over the black top tables in chalk while explaining vectors. In June 2002, returning from maternity leave, I was assigned as a teacher to D.P. Todd. After teaching Social Studies, English and Planning 10 for a year, I was interviewed by Garry Hartley, the principal, for the teacher-librarian position. D.P. Todd is a great place to teach. The size of the school is one of its best aspects because it is small enough to know everyone and big enough to have diversity both in students and teachers. Sandra (Kipping) Jandric, Teacher-Librarian 2002 to present I remember D.P. Todd and its staff in those formative years as the very best place to be a teacher. What a privilege it was to work with such an energetic, talented group of professionals. What a unique opportunity to open a new school, to set policy and to participate in creating an atmosphere of teaching and learning from the very beginning! I worked alongside some top-notch classroom teachers. There are too many special colleagues to begin making a list but I must mention John Vogt since, without him, I would not feel so comfortable and reasonably capable using my iPad, my iPhone, my iPod and my MacBook Air. Lesley Hay, Teacher-Librarian 1977-2003 The classrooms along the north wall were always cold during our Prince George winters. The reason for this was that the school had opened with a temporary wall and all the plumbing for the science labs was in that north wall. During a particularly bad cold spell a whining student complained, “It’s cold enough to freeze water in here.” I told her she was exaggerating. She asked to borrow a beaker. By the end of the period the water she had added to the beaker was frozen. A few days later the pipes burst during the night. We arrived the next morning to find a skating rink in one corner of the room. Another student phoned the newspaper. Eventually a new heating system was installed, more insulation was added to the north wall, and we all took off our coats. John Vogt, Computer and Chemistry teacher, 1977-2007 The school trip to Vancouver for Expo ‘86 was a huge success and flawless for most of the time. Disaster struck on our way home, just out of Lac La Hache, when the bus’s engine blew. It was HOT! I indicated I was going to walk to D. P. Todd’s! You can imagine the cynicism with which that was received. I did indeed walk to D. P. Todd’s as he and his wife, Ruth, were living in Lac La Hache. I knocked on the door and told Dave I had some good news and some bad news! The good news: I was going to visit for four or five hours. The bad news: I had a busload of students with me! I borrowed Dave’s vehicle and then ferried everyone back to Dave Todd’s place. He entertained them with his tricks and magic. D.P. Todd Secondary One of his antics was to wait until a female student used the outdoor biffy. He used an intercom, already installed in the biffy, to address whichever student was using it at the time. “Do you mind? I am painting down here!” was one of the comments he was heard to make. You can imagine the reaction! Art Reed, Vice principal 1977-1988 I was only at DP Todd for one school year – on a teaching exchange from Australia in 1984. I thoroughly enjoyed my year there and was amazed at how supportive the staff was. I loved teaching the students including those who were repeating grade 8 Social Studies. They were a challenge but it made me realize that, with a little bit of extra TLC, they could be successful. Dianne (Sampson) Reed, exchange teacher 1984 Note: Dianne married Art Reed in 2004. They live in Perth, Australia. A factor in making DP Todd become a great school was the effort to make the transition from grade 7 to grade 8 go smoothly. Each of D.P. Todd’s feeder elementary schools was first visited by the vice principal and the counselors and this was followed by a feeder elementary grade 7 day. The grade 7 students attended classes and toured the school with a grade 8 partner for part of a day. A useful innovation we established was the Todd Leadership Committee (TLC) group, which organized, laid out the rules and ‘policed’ the initiation day for the new students as well as organizing most of the special events days we held. The ski trips to Jasper and Smithers were highlights as were the ranch trips for grade 8 students that were organized by Art Reed. Doug Mason and Linda Riches had such a dedicated group of musicians and acting/stagecraft students. A huge highlight for me was our summer of 1987 ‘Learn French in Nice, France’ group, conceived and organized by Art Reed and co-sponsored by Gwen Jenkins and myself. I am still in touch with many of the students who participated in that trip. Don Wilson, Science teacher 1978-1988 Smithers Ski Trip 1983 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Duchess Park Secondary 747 Winnipeg Street, Prince George 1958 to Pr esent MISSION STATEMENT Continuous improvement is our commitment. Cooperation is our challenge. Individual responsibility is our goal. Through an environment of cooperation and commitment to continuous improvement, students at Duchess Park will develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to become contributing members of society. Duch e s s Pa rk Se co n da ry 201 0 Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher NAME ORIGIN Prince George Junior High changed its name in 1958 to Duchess Park Junior High School when Connaught Junior High School opened. The school was named after the existing city park where it was located. The park had been named during the tenure of the Duke of Connaught as Canada’s Governor General from 1911 to 1916. Connaught Junior High was named for the Duke of Connaught. Duchess Park Secondary HISTORY The first building used as Duchess Park Junior High School was the old Prince George High School located at 9th and Winnipeg. This was across the school grounds from the new Prince George Senior Secondary School, which was built on Ross Crescent in 1956. In 1958, there were 565 students, in Grades 7-9, and 25 staff in Duchess Park Junior High School. Four rooms in Baron Byng School, built in 1916 as an elementary school on 7th and Winnipeg, were used as Home Economics Labs and Industrial Arts classrooms for the Junior High School. Baron Byng was later destroyed by a controlled burn. Duc h e ss Pa rk Jun i o r Hi g h Sc h ool 195 8 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection When Prince George Senior Secondary School moved to a new building on the bypass in 1968, Duchess Park Junior Secondary School took over the old Ross Crescent location. In the early 1980’s, the building on 9th and Winnipeg became the School Board Office. This building was demolished in 2006. Duch e s s Pa rk Se co n da ry 200 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Duchess Park Secondary Duchess Park Junior High and Lakewood Junior High were on shift in 1968-1969 while Lakewood was being built. This raised the student population to 1444. Duchess Park remained a Junior High School until 1973, when they retained their senior students. The first graduation class was in June 1976. The school was on shift again in 1976, while Kelly Road Secondary was renovated. Additions to the Duchess Park building were made in 1961, as Prince George Senior High, in 1967, in 1970 and 1973. In 1976, a new library, counselling area, office section, band room, and cafeteria were added. As an energy-saving measure in 1980, there was a plan to board up all five windows in each classroom in the Humanities and Science wings of the school. Students, staff and parents protested this action and managed to affect a compromise that only three windows in each classroom were boarded up. L ib r ar y 2 0 1 0 Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher In March 2010 Duchess Park Secondary School moved to a new building on Winnipeg Street. It was built for 900 students, and includes a 3-court gym, an acoustic music room, a 200 seat performing arts theatre, 20 classroons, a library, science labs, 4 workshops, and 3 home economics rooms. Architect, Karen Marler, has created an abundance of glass and skylights to capture natural light throughout the building. Pieces from the old gym floor are used in the main foyer, and the theatre doors are made of wood from King George V Elementary school. The new Duchess Park school stands on the site of the demolished KGV. Duchess Park Secondary PRINCIPALS ENROLLME N T YEAR 1958 1961 1966 1967 1971 1974 1975 1985 1992 1996 2000 2009 GRADES 7-9 8-9 8-10 8-10 8-10 8-11 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 # 565 574 636 1444 1251 1148 1245 953 868 888 957 856 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Mr. G.M. Payton Mr. D. Weicker Mr. J. Wiens Mr. L. Rodger Mr. B. Fisher Mr. H. Bugara Mr. D. Vawter Mr. J. Imrich Mr. D. Hallman Mr. K. Firth Mr. V. Thompson Mr. R. Little Mr. B. Ballantyne Ms. S. Thibault VICE-PRINCIPALS Duc hess P ar k Ju nior Hig h Sta ff 195 9 SD 57 Heritage Collection Mr. D. Weicker Mr. E. Dorran Mr. D. Vawter Mr. E. Dornbierer Mr. J. Deevy Mr. T. Ryan Mr. W. Wiens Mr. B. Attoe Mr. D. Mullis Mr. F. Egglestone Mr. R. Szanik Mr. F. Bolton Mr. A. Reed Mr. G. Monteith Mr. S. MacRae Mr. B. Ballantyne Mr. S. Brown Mr. G. Watson Ms. C. Eberle Mr. N. Niazi Mr. C. Macdonald Mr.S. Wyer Duchess Park Secondary Unique Programs at Duchess Park Secondary Several programs are unique to Duchess Park Secondary. The high school “Programme Cadre” or Francophone program began in 1985 and the high school “French Immersion” program began in 1992. Students of French speaking parentage from School District No. 93, Conseil Scolaire Francophone, complete their high school years at Duchess Park. Three elementary immersion schools, Austin Road, Spruceland, College Heights, as well as Heather Park Middle School, feed into a high school immersion program at Duchess Park. About 150 students are enrolled in the French programs each year. An exchange program with Quebec students has been part of the cultural component of the French programs. In the early 1980ʼs, German teacher Bert Schultz initiated a German exchange program in Prince George. German students came to Prince George for the first three months of every school year and Duchess Park students then stayed with their counterparts in Germany for the last three months. Duchess Park students have also hosted long term Rotary exchange students from Asia, Mexico, Central America, South America and Europe. These international students have come to Canada to improve their English and immerse themselves in Canadian culture. In the early 1970ʼs, Duchess Park had a unique Humanities 8 program that was started by a teacher, Norm Monroe, and continued on for many years with teacher, Gordon Botten. It emphasized F ly i n g U Gu e st R an c h Ske tc h 19 84 easing the transition from elemenCourtesy of Karen Cameron, former student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection tary school to secondary school by encouraging a sense of belonging. Only two teachers taught English/Social Studies and Science/Math. Part of the program was the organization of social activities such as the Pumpkin Carving Contest, the Flying U Ranch trip, an Indoor Track Meet and ski trips to the Hart Highlands. Duchess Park Secondary Unique Programs “Pathways”, an alternate education program for pregnant adolescent mothers and fathers existed from 1987-2005. The children were cared for in a daycare, across the street from the school, operated by the Elizabeth Fry Society. This program has been moved to the Elizabeth Fry Society site on Queensway and renamed the Teen Mothersʼ alternate program (TMAP) with a teacher from the Centre for Learning Alternatives. Intensive Childcare Resource School (ICCR) program, Camp Trapping and other off site alternative programs for “at risk” students have also been attached to Duchess Park throughout the years. These programs have required interagency partnerships with education, health, corrections and social services. Aboriginal support services, started at Duchess Park by Peter MacLaurin, grew over the years into a separate counseling and study area for native students. In the 1980ʼs, Bendina Miller started the Special Learning Resources (SLR) program for high school age students with profound physical and/or intellectual disabilities. Special needs students continue to graduate from Duchess Park in this life skills program. Murals painted by art students decorate the walls of the old Duchess Park building. This was initiated in the 1970ʼs by art teacher, Daryl Mytron, and carried on by the art teachers that succeeded him, most notably Don Leech and Amy Gremm. Duc h e ss Pa rk M ura ls 200 9 Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher Duchess Park Secondary Academic & Civic Leadership Duchess Park has honored the school and community leadership of students over the years. School citizenship awards and trophies are presented at Awards Day ceremonies every June. An active student council was encouraged and Duchess Park has taken a leadership role in the District Student Council. Several Duchess Park students have been named by the city as “Prince George Youth of the Year”. Youth of the Ye ar 199 7 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Duchess Park offers opportunities for scholastic growth as well. Advanced Placement courses have been offered in Calculus, Biology and English Literature. Advanced Placement is an international program centered in Princeton, New Jersey. This academic program challenges students to do college level work, while still attending secondary school. In May of each year, students D u c h e ss P ark Ju n io r H i g h enrolled in the program write examinaAc ad e m i c, Ci t i ze n s h i p & A th l e t i c Aw a rd s tions administered around the globe. J une 195 9 The Exploration Place P991.9.2.632.1 There have been a number of Duchess Park graduates who have gone on to make a mark in the arts community, at home and abroad: Juanita Vaillancourt and Eira Glover as professional dancers; Broek Bosma as a music director; Daniel Lapp as a wellknown fiddler; Karen Cameron as a city film ambassador; and Catherine Hansen as a local news anchor to name a few. Duchess Park Secondary Athletics Duchess Park Secondary has won a number of Provincial Championships and was somewhat of a sports dynasty in the 1990ʼs. Many Duchess Park teachers and members of the community have coached these teams. 1979/80 1994/95 1994/95 1995/96 1995/96 1997/98 1997/98 1999/00 1999/00 2000/01 2001/02 2005/06 BOYS AA BASKETBALL GIRLS AA VOLLEYBALL GIRLS AA BASKETBALL GIRLS AA VOLLEYBALL GIRLS AA BASKETBALL GIRLS AA VOLLEYBALL BOYS NORDIC SKIING BOYS AA VOLLEYBALL GIRLS AA BASKETBALL GIRLS AAA VOLLEYBALL GIRLS AAA VOLLEYBALL BOYS AA BASKETBALL Bo ys AA Bas ket b al l C ham pi ons 200 6 P rov incia l Banner & Trophy Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher The Condor Classic, an annual senior boys and senior girls basketball tournament, is always held just before Christmas break. In 2009, for the first time, a senior boys volleyball tournament was also held to commemorate the last year of the old gymnasium. Senior volleyball tournaments were never held because there was only room for one full-size court in the old Duchess Park gymnasium. Duchess hosted the Provincial AAA Volleyball Championships in 2010, in a new gym with three full sized courts. G i rl s A A Ba sk et ba ll C ham pi ons 1 995 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Boy s AA Vol ley b al l C ham pions 200 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Duchess Park Secondary C heerl ead ers 195 9 ( left ), 20 09 ( ab ove) , 1 970 (b elow ) SD 57 Education Heritage Collection RAH RAH D U C H E S S ! We’ll sing a song for Duchess Park, And while we’re here we’ll try, To do our best to win success, And boost our Junior High! Scho ol S ong 196 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Duchess has fielded teams for other sports such as curling, swimming, rugby, soccer, track and field, football, bowling, tennis, golf, and badminton over the years. K ey cha in 199 1 J uni or Hi gh Bell R i ng ers 196 9 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection D uches s P a rk M a sc ot 200 6 Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher The Exploration Place P993.11.1.6971.1 Duchess Park Secondary DID YOU KNOW? T D HE CONDOR CHRONICLE WAS THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER FROM 1992-2002. UCHESS PARK STUDENTS HAVE COLLECTED ITEMS FOR SALVATION ARMY HAM- M a st head of t he C ondor Chr onic le PERS FOR MANY YEARS. EACH CHRISTMAS SD 57 Education Heritage Collection AN AVERAGE OF 30 HAMPERS ARE DONATED WHICH ARE DISTRIBUTED TO NEEDY FAMILIES IN THE CITY. A CREW OF DUCHESS PARK DRAMA STUDENTS FILMED SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD MEETINGS AND CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS FOR SEVERAL YEARS. S ENIOR STUDENTS AT DUCHESS HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN A PEER TUTORING PROGRAM AS AN ELECTIVE COURSE. THEY SUPPORT STUDENTS IN JUNIOR CLASSES AND TAKE COURSES IN COUNSELING. H OME ECONOMICS CLASSES AT DUCHESS WERE IN- VOLVED IN THE 1970ʼS AND 1980ʼS IN DISTRICT FASHION SHOWS WITH STUDENTS MODELING CLOTHES MADE IN THEIR SEWING CLASSES. MANY SENIOR GIRLS MADE THEIR OWN GRADUATION DRESSES. IN MORE RECENT YEARS, THE GRADUATION CLASS HAS PUT ON A FASHION SHOW AS A FUNDRAISER FOR DRY GRAD ACTIVITIES. GRADE 12 STUDENTS MODEL CLOTHES FROM LOCAL CLOTHING STORES. I N THE 1970ʼS, STAFF MEMBER ROGER FOX ver 0 00 r 2 on e t s ti llec Po e rita g F tion He n i r ca Sp Edu SD 57 o eC g CREATED THE “DOCTOR OF OXOLOGY” AWARD WHICH IS STILL HANDED DOWN TODAY. IT GOES TO A MEMBER OF THE DUCHESS PARK STAFF EACH JUNE AND IS AWARDED BY THE PREVIOUS YEARʼS RECIPIENT. THE CRITERIA IS TO HAVE “BAFFLED WITH BRILLIANCE” THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. A “CROWN” IS ALSO AWARDED TO THE STAFF MEMBER WHO MAKES THE BIGGEST “FAUX PAS” DURING EACH MONTH. Duchess Park Secondary D UCHESS PARK TEAMS WERE NAMED THE CON- DORS AND THE CONDERETTES SINCE JUNIOR HIGH DAYS IN THE LATE 1950ʼS. CURRENTLY, BOTH BOYSʼ AND GIRLSʼ TEAMS ARE CALLED CONDORS. T HE SCIENCE LABS AT DPSS WERE DESIGNED BY TEACHER ROGER FOX. HE NAMED THE CLASSROOMS AFTER FAMOUS SCIENTISTS SUCH AS BANTING, NEWTON, CURIE, DALTON, FARADAY AND RUTHERFORD. ROGER ALSO ESTABLISHED THE FIRST LABORATORY ASSISTANT POSITION IN THE SCIENCE DEPARTMENT OF THE SCHOOL. THIS POSITION WAS ADOPTED BY OTHER PRINCE GEORGE HIGH SCHOOLS IN THE YEARS THAT FOLLOWED. C ondor cir ca 19 60 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection T HE FIRST INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY/COMPUTER CLASSES AT DUCHESS, IN THE LATE 70ʼS, USED TERMINALS CONNECTED TO THE BOARD OFFICE VAX BY AN UNDERGROUND TUNNEL. I D N 1987, THE PRINCIPALʼS OFFICE WAS TURNED INTO A FALL CAMPFIRE SITE WITH LEAVES, SLEEPING BAG AND OTHER NECESSITIES OF OUTDOOR LIFE. UCHESS PARK HAD A DRAG RACING TEAM SPONSORED BY INDUSTRIAL ARTS TEACHER, ANDY CLOSKEY. THEY RACED A 1976 CHEVROLET NOVA IN PROVINCIAL HIGH SCHOOL RACES. Dr ag Rac ing in As hcr oft 199 8 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Duchess Park Secondary T HERE HAS BEEN A RIVALRY BETWEEN DUCHESS PARK AND PRINCE GEORGE SECONDARY FOR MANY YEARS. A 40 FT. X 4 FT. SIGN WAS PLACED ON THE MAIN ROOF OF PGSS ABOVE THE ENTRANCEWAY IN 1972. IT READ: DUCHESS PARK ANNEX. ANOTHER 8 FT. X 4 FT. ADVERTISEMENT WAS PLACED OFF G ra de 11 P hys i cs Cl as s 1 977 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection THE HIGHWAY IN FRONT OF THE SCHOOL IN 1975. IT READ: FUTURE SITE OF THE PRINCE GEORGE SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT. IN THE LATE 1970ʼS, A LARGE FOR SALE SIGN WAS ERECTED ON THE ROOF OF PGSS. THE SIGNS WERE RUMORED TO BE THE ART WORK OF ROGER FOX AND HIS PHYSICS CLASSES OF THE DAY. T HE FIRST GRADUATING CLASS IN 1976 HAD THEIR PICTURE TAKEN IN THE BLEACHERS OF THE GYMNASIUM. THE RAILING ALMOST OVERSHADOWED THE PHOTOGRAPH. AT THEIR 30 YEAR REUNION IN 2006, THE PARTICIPANTS HAD A PHOTOGRAPH TAKEN IN THE GYM WITH THE RAILING FRONT AND CENTER FOR OLD TIMES SAKE. M ANY PRANKS HAVE BEEN CARRIED OUT BY HONORS GRADUATING STUDENTS IN MORE RECENT YEARS. THE TOTAL EXCHANGE OF CLASS- ROOMS BETWEEN ANDREW LEAMY AND PAT ABRA IN 2008 WAS A REPEAT OF THE SHENNIGANS OF THE 1980ʼS. 19 76 G r adu at ion C la ss R eunion 20 06 Courtesy of Brian Martinson, former student Wi n n e r Pi n 1 990 ’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Duchess Park Secondary Memories There have been bomb scares at most schools. A Grade 9 student from Duchess Park Junior High was actually charged by the RCMP for a threatening telephone call in October 1970. At the end of the year, in the late 1970’s, a “bomb” was sighted when staff cleaned out the science wing student lockers. It looked like several sticks of dynamite wrapped together with a fuse. The school was immediately emptied. Everyone stood around for several hours and finally were told to go home as the bomb squad from the Vancouver RCMP had been contacted and were flying up the next day to disarm the bomb. The RCMP found several sticks of cardboard tubing wrapped up to look like dynamite. To my knowledge, the trickster was never found! Another physics class joke? Barb Hall, retired teacher-librarian, 2009 In 1980, five girls and the Provincial Champion Boys Basketball team played a practical joke on two teachers, Coral Lyford and myself. They completely exchanged every piece of furniture, all the materials, pictures and books between our rooms. They even exchanged the room numbers from above the door. For 4-5 years afterwards, the room numbers in that hallway read 201,203, 207, 205 and 209. This was the most memorable joke that was ever played on me. B as ke t b al l Te am 198 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Blaine Rowe, retired teacher, 2009 I have attended several Duchess Park reunions and it is always gratifying seeing students many years later. At the 1976 reunion, those organizing the reunion felt that their fellow students were “Family”, that there was a strong bond that went back years. The 1979 class contained fourteen of the seventeen students that Audrey Linnes and I took to France during Spring Break of 1978. One of the organizers of the 1980 reunion said she felt that many of the teachers were not just colleagues but also close friends. Blaine Rowe, retired teacher, 2009 Duchess Park Secondary GRADUAT I O N For many years, the tradition was to hold the Valedictory Ceremonies in the school gym. Grade 11 students, under the supervision of Daryl Mytron in the art department, and other staff, built an elaborate set. On occasion the gym stage even included pillars and runways. Charlie Freeman and other counseling staff worked with the graduating students to organize the ceremonies. Since 2000, the Valedictory Ceremonies have taken place at the Civic Centre. 1984 V SD 57 Ed al edict ucation H ory Cer eritage Co emony llection Duchess Park Secondary GOODBYES AND CONGRATULATIONS HAVE EMPATHY, GRADS TOLD Have empathy for all human beings was the advice from retiring school superintendent Dave Todd at the Prince George Secondary School graduation ceremonies Saturday. Nearly 700 graduating students shared goodbyes and congratulations as PGSS held it annual graduation and Duchess Park Secondary School celebrated its first... g nin t ly o F r tion L e a Educa 57 6 1 9 9 ction olle ge C ita Her Linda Carson was the valedictorian of Duchess Park’s first graduating class. She reminisced about school years with her classmates adding “we must remember our graduation is not only an ending but a beginning. A beginning that is nourished by our hopes and dreams”. “I always feel excited when I look into the future,” she said. “The world holds unlimited opportunities.” SD Miss Carson encouraged her classmates to “go forth into the future with optimism, determination and confidence.” June 1976 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen & D et u q on n cti Ba olle o n ritage C i t a He du tion G r a Educa 7 5 SD a e nc 1 99 9 Duchess Park Secondary Student to Teacher A number of students that attended school at Duchess Park later became teachers at the school. These include: Dan Foster, Louise Holmes, Dick Zarek, Dave Galloway and Dan Watt. Sherry Thibault, the principal of Duchess Park from 2008-2010, is also a former student. Louise U l ls t rom (H olm es) , c ent re front S e n i o r G i r ls B as ke t b al l Te am 198 5 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection A Tribute to Keith Gordon Keith Gordon taught history and geography at Duchess Park for a number of years. He was able to engage students by using real world experiences. Keith frequently had his geography classes out in the community doing assignments that put classroom theory into practice. He took a group of students across Canada to Expo ʼ67 in Montreal. He took a Grade 12 class to London in 1975 to give them an understanding of the great works of English literature by visiting some of the places where it was created. They also saw the K e i t h G o rd o n , te a ch e r 198 2 long-running play “The Mousetrap” and SD 57 Education Heritage Collection the current hit “Jesus Christ Superstar.” His enthusiasm for teaching was an inspiration to many students and a number later entered the teaching profession. Keith was 58 when he died from cancer on July 14, 1996. Donations went to scholarship funds at the College of New Caledonia and School District #57, a fitting legacy to assist students. Kelly Road Secondary 4540 Handlen Road, Prince George 1967 to Present “Striving for Excellence” Mission Statement Our mission is to maintain a safe and supportive environment that encourages students to strive for excellence, to accept responsibility, to respect self and others, and to gain the knowledge and skills to become life-long learners as well as productive members of a changing society. With the cooperation of home and community, KRSS is committed to providing equal opportunities for meaningful educational experiences that respect cultural diversity. Aerial view of Kelly Road 1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History Kelly Road Secondary School has a varied history, both in grades offered and catchment area. The former elementary/junior high school became strictly a junior high in 1967. The construction of the pulp mills in the mid 1960s had caused a population boom in the Hart region as it did in the rest of Prince George. From 1968 to 1972, the overflow was housed in the Annex and North Nechako Road students were switched to the Duchess Park Secondary catchment area. By 1975, grade 11 was added to the school and grade 12 the following year, completing the transition to a secondary school. To accommodate these additional students, Kelly Road had to go on shift for the 1975-1976 year. Grade 11’s and bus students had the morning shift and all others were on the afternoon shift. New construction and renovations were to be finished by September 1976 but this deadline was not met due to construction problems. It was decided to put all of Kelly Road on shift with Duchess Park for the fall. The reopening of the school took place on January 3, 1977 except for the gym and auto shop, which were delayed to January 24th. The first graduation ceremony took place in May of that year. Kelly Road Secondary By the early 1990s, with the building of more subdivisions in the Hart area, the number of students at Kelly Road again exceeded its capacity. In 1993–94 a block of six new classrooms was built along with a new office area. After this block was finished, renovations were begun that encompassed the computer, Kelly Road construction 1974 art, counselling and special education SD 57 Education Heritage Collection areas as well as an acoustic ceiling for the band room. However, even these improvements were not enough to deal with the burgeoning student population. In September 1994, five portables had to be brought in because the school was still 166 students over its capacity. A process was begun to determine what course to take to address this problem. In 1996 the “Kelly Road Zone Accommodation Task Force Report” recommended that a grade 6 – 8 junior middle school be built to take the pressure off Kelly Road Secondary. Heather Park Middle School was opened in 2000, leaving Kelly Road with grades 9–12, and operated until June 2010. As district enrollment declined, the grade 8 students were brought back to Kelly Road and Heather Park Middle School became an elementary school. In the spring of 2017, the provincial government gave School District 57 permission to build a $44.3 million replacement for Kelly Road Secondary. The new school is to hold 900 students and will be designed using the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Gold standards. Construction started in 2017 on land next to the existing school. The new school opened in 2020 and was named Shas Ti Kelly Road Secondary. DEMOGRAPHICS The Hart Highway area was originally rural and semi-rural and was outside the boundaries of the city of Prince George. With the population growth of the 1960s and 1970s, new subdivisions were built. This brought suburbanites to the Hart area to add to the mix of people already there. Still the Hart area maintained a separate identity from the rest of Prince George and Kelly Road Secondary is a centre for that community. The school is considered by many to be more of a family than an institution. Students in hallway 1992 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Kelly Road Secondary ENROLLMENT YEAR 1967 1968 1969 1975 1976 1982 1990 1999 2000 2005 2010 2015 GRADE 7-10 7-10 8-10 8-11 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 9-12 9-12 8-12 8-12 # 488 567 533 786 931 1149 1068 1454 1183 968 1062 783 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Class 1968 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection PRINCIPALS Ted Lea Jack Harrower Jim Smith Don Chamberlain Arnold Boomhower Sharon Cairns Cale Birk Lee Karpenko Kap Manhas Stephen MacRae Kelly Road Secondary VICE PRINCIPALS Art Erasmus Hank Bugara Doug Forrest Terry Ryan Bob Attoe Don Chamberlain Robin Temoin Richard Szanik Jim McMillan Ivan Strom Fred Egglestone Robin Dielessen Rob Little Sharon Cairns EARLY STAFF Gordon Armes Bernice Carrier Allen Crane S.Crane Adeline Dulmage Dave Edamura Walter Hanik Hans Hartnagel Kit Hellenius J. Levens Ken McCarville Art Reed Rene Schweizer Fred Bolton Ted Renquist Jennifer Rankin John Mackie Jane Anderlini Kirk Czechmeister Ray Roch Jill Jackson Steve Dalla Lana Christine Hicks Sid Jawanda Dan Watt Kathy Marks Bill Miller Gary Nordstrom Jake Penner P. Regan Dave Rowett Jack Sieb Ernie Sollid Heather Van Holderbrecke Carol Young Dinnis Zral Kelly Road Secondary First Kelly Road Junior secondary staff 1967-1968 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection ACADEMICS Although it started as a basic junior high school, increasing student population meant that Kelly Road Secondary could offer a wide range of courses. For academically minded students the Advanced Placement program was introduced in the mid 1990s. Kelly Road was an early adopter of computer technology. In 1981 it had scheduled courses in computer science and data processing. The lab was open beyond school hours to allow students more access to the computers. Other specialty courses over the years were Choir, Wood Products Manufacturing, Agriculture and Culinary Arts. Construction class 1978-1979 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Kelly Road Secondary Kelly Road’s drama department was active and dynamic under the direction of Mr. Tessler. The students performed in dramas and comedies, sometimes for elementary classes, but the most popular were the musicals. Some of the most successful of these were “Grease”, “West Side Story”, and “Little Shop of Horrors”. “Grease” 1995 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection There was a recognition assembly for high achieving students in each grade. Students with a straight A or G report card were taken out for lunch at a restaurant in the city, such as the Shogun or the P.G. Golf and Curling Club. Kelly Road students won many district academic awards. With an increasingly academic focus, the percentage of students going on to post-secondary education went from 15% to 70% by the late 1990s. The arrival of UNBC and Career Prep courses were factors in this increase. Several courses encouraged active participation by the students. A science 9 class went on a field trip to the Tumbler Ridge area and a mock wedding was held by the Consumer Fundamentals class. The Law 12 class often held mock trials. In 1992, ‘Marie Antoinette’ was put on trial at the courthouse. Students learned about citizenship by going through the same process as new Canadians. Mock wedding 1976 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Kelly Road Secondary Some grade 8 students were helped by the Grade 8 Transition Program. Its main goal was to provide at-risk students with the behavioral and social skills necessary to be successful at the high school level. To deal with streets kids in the Hart area, principal Don Chamberlain and District Advisory teacher Kathi Hughes created the Hart Community Connector with some funding from School District 57. Since students from the Hart area were not easily able to access programs in the bowl area, the use of the Eagles Hall was essential. The immediate goal was to meet the students’ basic needs and get them off the street, but the long-term goal was to have them graduate. Gerry Brunello was the teacher, with help from a youth care worker from Reconnect. Initially on the all-year system, Kelly Road switched to a semester system in the fall of 1974. This timetable continues to the present day. As far back as 1970, an alternate bell schedule was used to allow students time to explore clubs and other activities. The principal, Jack Harrower, introduced this idea for Friday afternoons. Later on, a similar program was held every Wednesday. Classes were shortened 15 minutes each to allow for one hour of student/teacher learning time. During this time, students had the opportunity to join various clubs run by teachers or participate in an academic tutorial, also run by teachers. If a student was missing an essential learning outcome, they had to participate in tutorial time. During this time, teachers were running clubs, tutorials, and participating in collaborative discussions or projects centred on the best teaching practice in various subject areas. First grade 12 graduation class of Kelly Road 1977 Courtesy Stephen MacRae, principal, Kelly Road Secondary Kelly Road Secondary ACTIVITIES Kelly Road had many dances, the most popular being the Halloween Dance. At the Valentine’s Dance there was not just a King and Queen, but a whole court that included a princess, knight, lady-in-waiting and cupid! Something that was unique to the school and its more rural nature was the Barn Dance held in 1976. Valentine dance 1977 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Decorations for Barn Dance 1976 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The grad class had two major fundraisers: the Grad Fashion Show and Shenanigans. The latter was a fun night held in the gym with activities such as a dunk tank, face painting, pie throwing, casino and, of course, food. Pie throwing 1992 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Dunk tank c1990 Courtesy of Don Chamberlain, retired principal Kelly Road Secondary Other activities organized for the students were Punk Days, Winter Carnival, School Spirit Day, Pep Rallies, 1920s day and Tacky Tourist Day. But it wasn’t just about having a good time. Kelly Road students raised money for Christmas hampers, had a high participation rate in the annual Milk Run and were usually the top “bleeders” of all the high schools in the blood drive. Milk Run 1978 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Blood Drive 1978 Courtesy of Wally Brown, retired teacher In the late 1990s, the leadership class organized the Gym Riot for grades 8, 9 and 10. The students were divided into 4 teams and competed for the Golden Shoe award. Favourite activities were the blueberry pie-eating contest and Chubby Bunny that involved stuffing one’s mouth with marshmallows and trying to say the words “Chubby bunny”. The Reading Centre was open in the winter and when cold or rainy in the spring. Students could do homework, read or play games. Donut sales were held to raise money for comic books and paperbacks. When there were grade 8 students at Kelly Road Secondary, the teachers organized events for them. The Flying U Ranch trip was the big event of the year, but there was also a treasure hunt, tug-of-war and “Lotto Kelly” to raise money. Pie eating contest 1977 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Kelly Road Secondary CLUBS One of the most successful and longrunning clubs at Kelly Road Secondary was the Debate Club. Besides being the largest organized club in the school, its members have won competitions in the district, province, and even nationally. Kelly Road frequently sponsored debate competitions. A related club was Speech Arts where Kelly Road students have done well at the provincial level. In the early years individual students won trips to Ottawa and New York through speech competitions. Debate Club 1977 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Kelly Road encouraged its students to work towards the Duke of Edinburgh award, which involves volunteering, physical activity, development of skills and organizing an expedition. Several students completed the requirements and some were able to go to Victoria to receive their awards at Government House. In 1981, Mr. Austen sponsored an expedition involving cross-country skiing and camping, allowing many students to complete this part of the award. Kelly Road was the first school to have students hike up Mt. Robson. It started as a club and then became part of senior P.E. courses such as Community Recreation 12. Trip to Mt. Robson 1979 Courtesy of Wally Brown, retired teacher The Student Council had an executive plus representatives from each grade. They organized the dances and other activities for the school population. The yearbook club was active from the late 1960s, even before the advent of the senior grades. It was complemented by the photography club, which took most of the photos for the yearbooks. Kelly Road Secondary ATHLETICS Kelly Road has always had a strong athletics program. At least three times the P.E. program was honoured with an award from the Canadian Association of Health Physical Education and Dance. This award was based on three measures: content of the program, participation in intramural activities and participation in extracurricular athletic programs. At the end of the year an Athletics Banquet was held to honour all of the top athletes. In addition, male and female athletes were selected as Roadrunners of the Month throughout the school year. Volleyball and basketball teams are usually fielded at all age levels and the school also had competitive wrestling and badminton teams. The mascot of the school and name of the Kelly Road teams is the Roadrunner. SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Senior girls’ basketball team 1984 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Kelly Road basketball teams have won many district and zone championships. The senior girls’ team, coached by Mr. Perrin, won its first zone title in 1978. In 1993, the team went to the provincial tournament and came 4th in the province. Kelly Road Secondary The most successful volleyball team was the senior boys’ team that won the provincial championship in 1986 after coming in second the year before. Senior boys’ volleyball team 1976 Courtesy of Wally Brown, coach and retired teacher Kelly Road has had a badminton team from its earliest years, started by Ms. McClure and continued by Mr. Zral and Mr. Peacock. Individual and doubles players competed successfully at many tournaments. In 1984, the senior team became provincial champions after winning as a junior team the year before. They were provincial champions three years in a row. Badminton team 1984-1985 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The first wrestling team was formed in 1979 by Mr. Chamberlain and continues to this day. There was also a very capable community coach, Don Roy, who took three students to the Canadian Junior and Juvenile Championships in Winnipeg in 1982. The first tournament outside of the Lower Mainland was held at Kelly Road in the mid-1980s. Members of the wrestling team would frequently qualify for provincials. The team came 5th out of 50 teams in a 1985 competition and in 1990 Kelly Road had five provincial champions. Later in the 1990s a girls’ wrestling team was formed. Provincial Champions in their weight class 1990 Courtesy of Don Chamberlain, retired principal Kelly Road Secondary Mr. Hanik, who was a top soccer player in his youth, organized the first boys’ soccer team in Prince George at Kelly Road. Since there was no other high school team in Prince George, they would play against a teachers’ team which occasionally included Dave Todd, the then superintendent of School District 57. When soccer became popular throughout Canada, Kelly Road fielded both boys’ and girls’ teams. Other early sports clubs were gymnastics and trampoline. In later years these gave way to golf, rugby, cross-country skiing and track. There was a cheerleading squad for many years. Not surprisingly, they were named the Roadettes. On the other side of the spectrum, Kelly Road Secondary has had a girls’ rugby team since the late 1990s. Girls’ rugby team 1998-1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Cheerleading squad 1977-1978 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Did You Know? T here were hopes at one time that a pool would be built in the area under the new gym. Mr. Harrower organized penny drives that raised almost $25,000 for the facility, but the approval to build it never came. However, the school is still plumbed for a pool in that space. T D he Kelly Road newspaper has had many names. It was variously known as the Times, the Amalgamum, the Courier, the Rumour and the Oracle. uring principal Jim Smith’s year-end talk to the staff in the mid-1980s, Mrs. Thorstenson’s dog went up and did its business on the library carpet right behind Mr. Smith. T he first two Apple computers at Kelly Road were called Adam and Eve. Kelly Road Secondary K I M T elly Road was the first high school to have Saturday School and the first to instigate an anti-bullying program. n 1986, Mr. Austen sponsored a “Monty Python’s Flying Circus” club (or Monty Python’s Fliegender Zircus). r. Brown used to single-handedly play the senior girls’ volleyball team and win – well, at least until he got too old. ami Maida, who became famous for quarterbacking a boys’ football team in Oregon, was a student at Kelly Road Secondary in the early 1980s. A TV movie was made about her life, called “Quarterback Princess”. Tammy Maida 1984 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Slave Day 1991-1992 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection W T hen Slave Days were still allowed, Mr. MacRae offered to be auctioned off. He was required by his “master” to carry a sign that said: “Mr. MacRae’s Cross Dressing” wo of the Business Managers, Berha Turner and Cynthia Mangan, recall that bats were a problem in the 1990s (or really it was bat feces that were the problem). Mostly in the summer months a few would cluster on the walls in the old part of the school, flying down the hallway startling the office staff and anyone who was there. It is illegal to kill bats, so the challenge was how to contain them. The school district employees would seal off any cracks or joins to prevent these creatures from inhabiting human areas. Finally one of the maintenance men decided to build a bat house and place it on the roof. The story goes that he would drive out to the school in the evenings to see if his bat house was occupied or … to see if there was a ‘no vacancy’ sign posted. Memories Kelly Road Secondary Because of various construction difficulties [Kelly Road] was far from complete in September 1976 and, because of the extent of the renovations in the old building, there was no accommodation for students. After a two-week delay, the decision was made to bus all of the Kelly Road students to an afternoon shift at Duchess Park in the city. How well we will remember 950 people waiting for busses on the Duchess Park car park in dark, snow, rain and the sometimes freezing temperatures of November and December. Jim Smith 1977, former principal One of my favorite extra-curricular activities that Kelly Road uniquely offered was the Debate Team. We went to other cities for big competitions: Kelowna and Vancouver. It was so wonderful to have an opportunity to travel. I remember usually staying up very late in the hotel room with the other girls preparing my speech at the last minute after everyone else was asleep. Being a non-athlete, I never dreamed that I would ever be part of a Pep Rally, but the Debate Team was included in this at Kelly Road! I remember being cheered on by the entire school as we ran up to the front to join all the sports teams. We had coordinated hoodies and sweat pants with the Kelly Roadrunner logo and the pants read REBUTTAL across the bum! Sarah Dupont 2016, former student With all the happenings throughout our grade 12 year, it is gratifying to observe all the many friendships and developing acquaintances that are a result of the graduation preparations. Even though many of our graduates have been going to this school together since grade 8, it is only this last year that one can truly say we actually know one another. Perhaps the problems of shift have drawn us together. Some of us stayed in school during these difficult times only because Kelly’s first grad was so special. Jacquie Dondale 1977, excerpt from the first valedictory speech at Kelly Road Secondary The 1994 renovations meant that the Kelly Road population had to live with ongoing construction and switching rooms once one section was complete. The administration wanted to reward the students and came up with the idea of a barbeque, now known as the Burger Bash. The contractor and the trades working at the site were persuaded to fund the event. The tradition was continued with the help of the leadership class, the Parent Advisory Committee and community donations. Don Chamberlain 2016, retired principal Kelly Road Secondary Burger Bash 1998 Courtesy of the Hart Gazette Cartoon drawn by a parent 1994 Courtesy of Don Chamberlain, retired principal McBride Secondary 1300 Second Avenue, McBride 1950 to Present “A Community of Learners” McBride Secondary 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection History McBride was founded in 1913 as Mile 90 of the Grand Trunk Railway. It is located in the Robson Valley, 210 km southeast of Prince George. The village was named after Sir Richard McBride, British Columbia’s 16th premier from 1903-1915. His Conservative government created the province’s first university, the University of British Columbia in Vancouver. In 1917, the Fraser School was built in McBride and it included both elementary and high school classes. Some families did send their children by train to live in larger centres, such as Edmonton, for their secondary education As the area population grew, it was necessary to obtain more space so, by 1942, the secondary grades were moved to the Legion Hall on the corner of 3rd and Main Street. In 1946, a new provincial act required that all schools in the Robson Valley come under one school board and School District #58 (McBride) was created. About this time, McBride School received a “superior” designation meaning that school could teach curricula from grades 1 to 11. A new four-room school, intended for the higher grades, was completed in 1947 and it included a science room. When Fraser School burned in 1947, the school configuration had to be rethought and the secondary students returned to the Legion Hall and also used a room at the back of Woodley’s Garage. The elementary students moved into the new high school building and also used additional portables that were brought in. The “superior” designation gave the Board of Trustees flexibility in allotting sites for various grades. McBride Secondary Construction on new school 1989 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection In January 1949, two temporary rooms were in use in the basement of McBride Elementary-High School, including a very small room housing grades 11 and 12. William H. Grant, the Inspector of Schools, deemed this unsatisfactory and recommended the addition of two full-sized classrooms and a gymnasium to the existing school. The planning and building of a new secondary school began but took four years to complete. A high-school dormitory was opened in 1950 and was well-used by students from outlying areas. McBride Secondary School opened in 1952, at a cost of $140,000, as the only secondary school in the Robson Valley. Finally, it was possible to do away with all the temporary classroom accommodation that had been in use. This school served senior students from Valemount to Dome Creek, including Crescent Spur and Dunster, as well as the ranching and farming community in between. In 1955, four classrooms were added to the school and, in 1969, the school received a new Industrial Arts shop, a new Home Economics room, a new library and improved science facilities. In 1970, when Highway 16 east from Prince George to McBride was finally completed and after much controversy, the schools in SD 58 became part of School District #57 (Prince George). Valemount received its own secondary school in 1974. The dormitory in McBride was then no longer necessary and it was turned into an art and music facility. Groundbreaking for a new McBride Secondary School was in May 1989. The foundation and first walls were in place by July. By September the final structural components were starting to take shape. The school, including a full-size gym and the Roundhouse Theatre, was completed by the following summer and opened in September 1990. The official opening was on October 9th with the Board of Trustees, superintendent Jim Imrich and assistant-superintendents John Stevens, Hank Bugara and Art Erasmus in attendance. McBride Secondary McBride Junior Senior High School 1953 The Exploration Place 2004.2.575 ENROLLMENT YEAR 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2014 GRADE 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) # 95 165 177 162 110 127 106 80 Plaque commemorating first school SD 57 Education Heritage Collection EARLY STAFF Mr. E. A. Hill-Tout Mr. Gilbert Elliot Mr. G. E. N. Fox Miss I. E. Savitsky Miss N. M. Brent Miss E. F. Roberts Mrs. Eva Wendall Miss Rodgers Miss S. H. Brooks Miss Joan Wilson Mr. H. N. Cairns J. P. Gibson Mr. Ted Fowler Mrs. Georgie Perron Mr. Hennig Grade 9/10 class in front of Legion Hall Sept. 1945 Eva Wendell, teacher The Robson Valley Story McBride Secondary PRINCIPALS F.N. Sutton R.F. Lucas A.E. Dawson William Bergen William Maslechko Doug Forrest Tyrus Brown Dennis Semeniuk Donald Wallace Bob Viergever Bruce Jansen Ian Kennedy Cal Dey Rick Thompson Derrick Shaw VICE PRINCIPALS John Zibin Andrew Peasgood Staff 2003 Rick Thompson, principal SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Graduates 1953 The Exploration Place 2004.2.591 May Queen and Princesses 1953 McBride Secondary The Exploration Place 2004.2.574 McBride Secondary Amalgamation In 1970, the secretary-treasurer of School District #58 (McBride) was discussing retirement and, when the Ministry of Education learned of this, the Minister decided to “consider the future development of educational facilities and the operation of your district as we enter into the new decade. With the completion of the new highway (Highway 16)…your district is brought closer to the rest of the Province.” The Ministry of Education refused to fund the replacement of the secretary-treasurer so the school board decided to agree to amalgamation provided a Robson Valley seat on the Prince George school board was assured. This was not forthcoming and on July 1, 1970 the assets of SD 58 were transferred to SD 57. There were some local residents who believed that now their taxes would be lower but generally there was resentment, anger or sorrow in the area. The highway that they had desired for so long had betrayed them. Subsequently, an individual was nominated to run for a SD 57 trustee position but was defeated. Eventually, the rural areas did elect Mrs. Eva Kettle, of Valemount, who served several terms. ATHLETICS The McBride Secondary School teams are known as the Mustangs. Volleyball, basketball, badminton, track and field, curling, snowboarding and wrestling are sports where students have participated in events throughout the northern zone. In 1983, McBride Secondary fielded a girls’ basketball team for the first time in many years. They were selected the Most Sportsmanlike Team at the Blackburn tournament. In 1984, the senior girls’ volleyball team placed 4th out of thirteen teams from across the north of the province. In 1991, the senior girls’ team placed 10th at the B.C. single “A” Championship in Lumby, B.C. McBride High School champion Blue Angels basketball team 1967 The Robson Valley Story 2008 In 2000, the senior boys’ basketball team was 20-4 for the regular season and qualified to represent the North Central Zone at the B. C. Provincial Tournament in Surrey, B. C. The team of only six players finished 9th out of sixteen teams. McBride Secondary BC Provincial Basketball Tournament 2000 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection In 2001, the snowboard team of six boys and five girls qualified for the Provincials at Apex Mountain in Penticton, B.C. The team came 10th out of 22 schools and none of the team was disqualified for missing a gate. In 2001, the wrestling team placed 3rd at the B.C. Summer Games and 6th place at the B.C. Provincial Championships. Two athletes, Liz Baker and Stacey Schock, went on to compete in the Canadian National Championships. Provincial snowboard competition Penticton 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection McBride Secondary ACTIVITIES STUDENTS’ COUNCIL The Student Council sponsors dances, usually at Halloween and Christmas, arranges air band contests and theme days such as Green Day and M.O.G.A. madness. They have sponsored foster children and held various fundraisers, including magazine sales. Student Council 2006 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Peer Counselling retreat 1996 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection PEER COUNSELLING Principal Bruce Jansen started the Peer Counselling program and it has continued through the years. The student volunteers participate in an in-depth training retreat early in the year. This helps the students feel equipped to handle any situation that might arise throughout the year. They give out “Warm Fuzzies” and maintain a bulletin board with items such as posters, articles, poems, and stories that are of interest to teenagers. A particular focus is making the grade 8 students feel welcome in the school. DESC In 1989, the Dunster Environmental Student Committee was formed and, in 1992, it expanded to McBride Secondary. In April 1995, the committee held a conference, Earth Search ’95, where 150 students from SD 57 and Jasper High School gathered at McBride Secondary for hands-on environmental workshops put on by twelve world-class environmentalists. The workshops varied from rock climbing to bird banding to geology of the Rocky Mountains. The group also participates in the Fraser River Project whose focus is to study and improve the health of the Fraser River and its watersheds. COUNTERATTACK Counterattack members work with the McBride R.C.M.P. detachment on various initiatives including providing “mocktails” at various occasions, Christmas road-checks, reminder Counterattack ribbons and pins, “Healthy day in the park” window displays, and movie presentations. They have also sent birthday cards to students who turn sixteen and included pamphlets, a pin, a sticker and bookmark. McBride Secondary DRAMA In September 1993, Kevin O’Brien became McBride Secondary’s first Drama teacher. That year, students presented seasonal sketches at Christmas, participated in an Arts Night and put on “McBride Follies” which focused on the history of the area’s people. In March 1997, the Drama Club presented “The Pink Panther Strikes Again”. In December 1998, they presented “The Elephant Man”, with Derek Hickerty in the role of John Merrick whose disfigured face and body gave him a unique perspective about the Victorian world. In June 1999, the club presented “Grease”. Counterattack members 1997 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Elephant Man program 1998 Did You Know? SD 57 Education Heritage Collection F or some of the early years, there was one principal for both the elementary and secondary schools. When principal W.E. Bergen left in 1963, the schools were divided and A. Dawson became the secondary principal. I n 1964, McBride Secondary applied for accreditation from the Department of Education. It was a report submitted to indicate the current standards of the school. The school was not accredited as it was considered too small. This process was repeated over the years. O n May 20, 1965, M. F. T. Middleton, District Superintendent of Schools for School District#58 (McBride) issued a statement on behalf of the Board of School Trustees stating that: “The board has authorized plans for a grade 11 programme at McBride Secondary School for the 1965-66 school term beginning in September … In addition, it is planned to offer grade 12 courses (university entrance and general programme), as in the past, under existing regulations … The board has stressed that several previous reports that senior secondary students of the McBride area would in future have to leave the district to complete their secondary education, are not true…” McBride Secondary I n June 1977, provisional accreditation was granted after a year-long self assessment process by the staff and a four day external evaluation by a team from the school dis- trict. This was a critical analysis of the operation and organization of the school’s educational program. R I ick Thompson, principal of McBride Secondary from 1998 to 2007, was also a member of the McBride Village Council for some of that time. n March 1988, five McBride Secondary students and their sponsor teacher went on a European adventure to Rome, Perugia, Assissi, their favourite destination of Florence, plus Pisa, Paris and London. European adventure March 1988 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I McBride Student Band Concert 1982 Director, Dan Hughes Valley Museum and Archives n October 1991, a small group of students spent a week at the Bamfield Research Station on the west coast of Vancouver Island. In following years the grade 9 science class made this trip. The hands-on labs included seaweed identification and classification, docks and pilings exploration, marine mammal adaptations and marine population ecology. For many students, this was their first encounter with the Pacific Ocean and its pounding surf. Bamfield trip 1999 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Earth Search ‘95 program SD 57 Education Heritage Collection McBride Secondary I n 2001, for the third year, grade 10 students traveled to Prince George Regional Hospital to participate in the P.A.R.T.Y (Prevent Alcohol and Risk Related Trauma in Youth) program that provided students with the opportunity to listen to health care workers and individuals who have suffered trauma. They also toured the intensive care unit and the emergency ward plus participated in a variety of activities. I n October 2001, Raymond Thibeault, Elizabeth Baker, Jana Harstad and Jessica Kraby attended UNBC’s recognition dinner that honoured students who achieved “A’s” in all grade 11 provincial examinable courses. T AG (Teacher Advisory Group) was a 10 minute block following first period where mixed groups of grade 8-12 students met with a teacher where they could discuss multi-age interests. These included how to study, use time effectively and cope with peers. The hope was that the older students might have useful advice for the younger students. O ver the years, the school has hosted a number of exchange students. In 2001-2002, there were students from Italy, Germany, Poland, New Zealand and South Korea at the school. A group of students from McBride Secondary traveled to Mexico during spring break in 2016 to participate in the Live Different program. Live Different is an international charity sharing a philosophy of caring for and connecting with other people. Exchange student from Poland 2001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Memories In 1976 in McBride it was spring (or so I thought), or at least spring break, and I was getting the car ready for the family to travel to Jasper for a hockey tournament. The weather was warm and dry so I went to the local garage to switch our car from winter to summer tires. The night before our trip it REALLY snowed. So, first thing in the morning, I went back to the garage to have the winter tires put back on. About 50 miles out of McBride, the weather was great with dry roads and sunshine. So when we got back to McBride four days later I went back to the garage to put the summer tires on … AGAIN! The next day the local paper had an ad in it: “Semeniuk Special at the ESSO station: 99 cents/tire”. In a small town, nothing is a secret. By the way, we loved the people of McBride. Dennis Semeniuk 2005, former principal McBride Secondary When I was teaching at McBride Secondary School, TAG (Teacher Advisory Group) was part of our life, 10 minutes every day with a multi-grade group of students. One year, I had an exceptionally bright grade 12 student in my TAG. Thinking he’d have useful advice and that I’d get a great response from him, I asked if he’d tell the group how he organizes his locker, his books, his homework, etc. His reply was, “I don’t. I just dump all my stuff in my locker and search for anything missing before the next class. Usually, when I open the door everything falls out.” The grade 8 students had quite a laugh. Sheilagh Foster 2016, retired teacher It was with great trepidation that I arrived at McBride Secondary School in September 1972, having been hired by SD 57 as the Industrial Education teacher. I’d brought a wife and family on this unknown adventure. What had I got into? At that time there were about 20 grade 11 and 12 students from Valemount who stayed in the dormitory on weekdays. The total enrolment was approximately 190. Unfortunately, it has declined ever since. Over the years, with the encouragement of accreditation teams and several members of staff, numerous field trips were organized. This ensured that students were exposed to different peoples and cultures. They included trips to UBC, SFU, the Emily Carr School of Art and BCIT plus six consecutive Dry Grad visits to Disneyland. There were also several Open House Canada Exchange Programs to Montreal, the Gaspé Peninsula and P.E.I. The new school that was built in 1990 was a pleasure to work in. My family and I came for a year but stayed for 25. I retired to the lower mainland in 1998. Andrew H. Peasgood 2016, retired teacher and vice-principal When one lived, taught, and raised one’s family in a community for thirty years, it had to be special. I was offered a job teaching at McBride Secondary at the end of June 1978, having just completed my MA thesis. My wife, Marian, and I flew to Prince George, rode the Greyhound out to McBride and found horses tied to hitching posts on Main Street and a high school with a young and energetic staff. We quickly discovered that the town was full of amusing characters, farmers, loggers, CN workers, public employees and small business people. Good fortune had given McBride a stable population, unlike many other resource towns. McBride Secondary Small schools could be tough on young teachers who usually had so many different subject preparations. But classes were relatively small since, at that time, rural schools received extra funding from SD 57. I was fortunate to join a staff that was dedicated, creative and supportive. From the outset, the principal believed that if one wanted student respect, one had to deal effectively with one’s own discipline issues, thus building rapport. An established science teacher shared that students came before curriculum and most teachers advised me to get involved with the community. This advice served me well; I coached minor hockey, played Oldtimers’ hockey, was active in the McBride-Valemount sub-local of the P. G. District Teachers’ Association and served on the McBride and District Hospital Board. Involvement brought perspective to my own job and to those of others plus I got to know many parents as well as folks outside the school system. In my view, school and community formed a successful working partnership; we were proud of our accomplishments and those of our students. In this positive, collegial environment, the youth did exceptionally well academically with many going on to university, technical institutes and trades programs. They did very well with scholarships and bursaries. The school also provided other opportunities with Encounters With Canada, the Terry Fox Program, Dry Grad activities, European tours, postsecondary institute visits, Bamfield science trips, peer counseling and, of course, sports. At the end of 2008, Marian, a primary teacher at McBride Centennial School, and I, addressed the graduating class as our last act as proud public school teachers in the beautiful Robson Valley and retired to Summerland in the sunny Okanagan. Tim Dunn 2016, retired teacher Students and staff outside McBride Secondary 2002 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Prince George Secondary 2901 Griffiths Avenue, Prince George 1918 to Present Prince George Secondary 2014 Courtesy of Douglas Waller, teacher Vision/Goal Students will learn to own their own learning. “PGSS is the Place To Be.” 1960 Four Schools: (from left) Baron Byng with PG Jr. High, KGV & PG Sr. High BC Archives Collection I-23832 History This school has had multiple locations and multiple name changes. The current PGSS on Griffiths Avenue is the only structure remaining. The first location on Queensway Avenue burned, and schools in the next three locations (shown in the photo above) have been demolished. Each of the five schools will be featured in the following pages. A preamble: the 1915 Prince George Elementary school occupying three purpose-built cottages on the east side of Vancouver Street between 4th and 5th Avenues did offer partial instruction in the higher grades. By the beginning of 1916 two new schools were built: one on the west side of Winnipeg Street at 7th, the other on the north side of Queen Street (Queensway) at 15th. The former had some high school instruction in the grade 8 class taught by Miss Luella Hammond. Families that could afford it sent their children to high school in Edmonton or Vancouver. Prince George Secondary: Queensway site 1918-1925 School On North Side of Queen Street(Queensway) at 15th Chapman, V. Lennie. A Montage of Chapmannals. Sidney-by-the-Sea, B.C.: Peninsula Printers, 2000. This school was built by contractors Bronger & Flynn for a considered price of $7,000 on Block 238 on the Millar Addition. There were two classrooms with a large central hall, cloakrooms, 2 smaller rooms in the basement and a utility room housing a coal furnace to supply steam heat. The wooden floors were periodically oiled. A water tower for town use was on Connaught Hill behind the school. It opened in January 1916 enrolling one class of elementary students. By September 1917, there were 14 high school students registered at the Winnipeg Street school and the city fathers thought that was close enough to the 20 required for a high school. A former mayor writes: “I hastened to the office of Dr. Robinson, then Deputy Minister (Victoria), and he immediately gave me assurances in writing, dated Nov. 1, 1917, that High School courses would be given forthwith, and an official High School would be recognized as at Jan. 1, 1918.” Honorable Harry G. Perry, M.L.A. (notes for speech given on the opening of the Prince George High School, January 2, 1945) SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Thus, plans were made to switch the high school students to the Queen Street location and move the elementary students to the Winnipeg Street school (Prince George Public school). Did You Know? T his High School was often called the Millar Addition School but after a June, 1929 naming contest, Robert Gray’s submission of Connaught School won as the new name of this site. The High School on Queensway Street SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Prince George Secondary: Queensway site 1918-1925 PRINCIPALS 1917-19 Mr. Alleyne A. Wright 1919-20 Mr. William Jones, B.A. 1920-22 Mrs. W. Luella (née Hammond) Martin, B.A. 1922-24 Mr. P. C. (Eric) Coates TEACHERS The city emergency hospital, Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Dandy Dance at High School P. – T. Association Raise Funds to Purchase Piano ...Both rooms at the school had to be used to accommodate the crowd, and there being so many young folks the free and easy spirit seemed to become contagious, and all enjoyed themselves tremendously. The musicians, laboring under difficulties on account of having to take their positions in the hall between the two rooms, did very well indeed. A plentiful and appetizing lunch was served at midnight by the high school pupils... January 4, 1923 Courtesy of The (Prince George) Leader enrollment y ear grade 9, 10, 11* 1919-20 1921-22 9, 10, 11 1923-24 9, 10, 11 # 19 29 54 *Grades 9, 10, 11 were referred to as: 1st year (Preliminary) 2nd year (Junior) Matriculation Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen November 5, 1951 December 3, 1918 1921-23 Miss Netannis Reid, B.A. 1923-24 Mr. Alexander Ogston School Burning which for several weeks has been conducted in the high school building, was closed yesterday, the two or three remaining influenza patients having been removed to their homes. This week the building is receiving a thorough fumigation. It is expected the high school classes will be resuming next week. After the high school moved to the Winnipeg Street location in February 1925, this Millar Addition school was closed until 1928 when it was used for overflow elementary students. By the 1938-39 term, high school students again began to use this location, first for home economics classes and later industrial arts classes. After the 9th Avenue High School was built (1945), this building became Connaught Elementary. Following a major expansion it was destroyed by a fire on November 2, 1951. Prince George Secondary: Winnipeg Street site 1925-1945 This four-room school was built in late 1915 by local contractors Mason & Henderson on Block 178 at Winnipeg and 7th as Prince George Elementary School. It enrolled a few high school students from January 1916 to June 1918. It sat virtually empty from 1922 to 1925 when a new elementary school was built on a rise to the northwest (future KGV). The Prince George Agricultural Association used two rooms to organize the fall fairs of 1923 and 1924. Deciding to make it the high school was cause for a lot of heated debate among city councillors. It cost $5600 to recondition the structure as the design was meant for mild climates. The high school relocated in February/March 1925, leaving the Millar Addition. In a 1929 school-naming contest, Marion Ferry, grade 9, was successful in re-naming Prince George High as Baron Byng High School. Possibly the visit to Prince George in June, 1925 by Baron and Lady Byng of Vimy (Governor General of Canada: 1921-1926) was a factor. Baron Byng 1920’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Teachers 1924-1929 Miss Jean E. Whitman, M.A. Miss Jessie K. Lette, B.A. Mr. Douglas H. Stewart Miss Mona Thompson, B.A. Miss G. I. Mockridge, M.Sc. Mrs. W. Luella Martin, B.A. Mr. J. Arnold K. Armour, B.A. Mr. James A. Fraser, B.A. PRINCIPALS Mr. E. A. Lynch Mr. A. D. Noble Mr. G. Blair Dickson Mr. Clarence A. Scott Mr. Thomas S. Parker Dr. Hugh Morrison Mr. Frank Wilson Mr. Harold R. Pennington Division 4 Baron Byng High School 1944 Exploration Place P982.30.64 Prince George Secondary: Winnipeg Street site 1925-1945 enrollment y ear grade 1924-25 9-11 1929-30 9-11 1939-40 9-11 1944-45 9-11 # 69 65 98 186 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) School Song Hail to thee, our Baron Byng, Mistress of the North, With heart and voice we all do praise thee As we now go marching forth – It’s up with the blue and the white my lads, Let them wave on high, To show the world that we’re all proud to greet you – Good old Baron Byng High! (sung to the tune of Anchors Away) School Crest Designed by Jacqueline (O’Rourke) Wallace SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Memories School dances: “Everyone dressed for these dances – the girls wore long dresses and the fellows wore suits or jackets and slacks, and always shirt and tie – quite a formal group we were in those days. There were very few cars and it seemed that just everyone walked. We thought nothing of walking from the Cache, Millar Addition, the Crescents and beyond the City limits in our “formals”. In winter we bundled up in heavy coats, toques, scarves and overshoes and wore mitts, sometimes over a pair of gloves. No one gave a second thought to the layers of clothing we had to put on as we braved the sub-zero weather. Some of the girls even had to wear woolen knickers, pulled on after the heavy wool overstockings. In ‘girl talk’, these unmentionable undergarments were alluded to as ‘passion dampers’! Jessie Bond Sugden, former student. In the Shadow of the Cutbanks, 1985. When I was in grade 10 at Baron Byng school two classes of girls joined to have the Home Economics cooking class. There were no cooking facilities at the school so our class walked up to the Millar Addition school. We would walk down (what is now) 7th Avenue, around the base of Connaught Hill and a bit farther down Queensway to the other school. We were having the lesson on muffins and the teacher had us make them more than once as the texture was not right. All the girls got tired of this but my friend and I decided to make a perfect one. We spotted a pile of horse droppings on the way back and fashioned a lovely muffin out of the contents of the pile and left it on the teacher’s desk. The other class was kept in after school as the teacher thought it had been them!! Leslie (Fraser) Maxwell, former student Prince George Secondary: Winnipeg Street site 1925-1945 Even though the school had no gym, physical training exercises were held in town facilities such as the Ritts-Kifer hall, the Legion and Duchess Park (the field adjacent to the school). Students participated in basketball, rugby, and track and field and even took difficult road trips. The CNR line was used as a main transportation route east–west. Girls’ Basketball Team 1935 Exploration Place P983.6.19 In the 1930’s, the Prince George Citizen ran a “High School Intelligence” and later, a “Schools and Scholars” column submitted by students. Here’s an excerpt: “The other day Dorothy Buchanan brought an electric hot plate and a tea kettle to school. During the intermission before noon hour she filled the kettle and put it on to boil, but when her back was turned some one poured the water out and put a half bottle of ink back in its place. Dorothy turned about as blue as the ink when she poured her tea at lunch hour.” “Need for a new school: “Prince George has the ‘poorest or second poorest’ high school building in the province,” said Dr. King, Chief Inspector of Schools in British Columbia, in discussing the immediate need for a new building. June 3, 1943 February 9, 1939 Fire! A fire broke out January 23, 1939 and seriously damaged Baron Byng. Grade nine and ten students were relocated to the Millar Addition (Connaught) school and the eleven and twelve students were housed in the King George public school. The repairs allowed the removal of the back stairs to create a science room 20’ x 24’. School opened again February 20. World War II Years The students were strong supporters of the war effort during World War II. Blackout restrictions were observed. Boys and girls knitted socks. Collections of paper, tin, and glass were made. Platoons of both boy and girls cadets practiced cadet drills. People opened their homes to some of the families of over 8,000 servicemen stationed in the city. Schools became overcrowded. 18 former students are listed on the city’s cenotaph. In 1945 Baron Byng ceased being a school but some of its rooms continued to be used for Industrial Arts and Home Economics. It was gutted and set fire to on July 12, 1968 in a controlled burn. School Fire Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen July 15, 1968 Prince George Secondary: 1894 9th Avenue at Edmonton site 1945-1956 It was difficult to get anything built during the war years because all building materials were to be used for the war effort. However, after pleas from many community groups and local/provincial bodies, the governmental approval finally came through. The school site selected was on Ninth Avenue by Edmonton Street. In January 1945, the newly built school was ready for the students. School Crest Designed by Jacqueline (O’Rourke) Wallace SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Prince George High School 1954 Courtesy of Joan (Yargeau) West, former student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The original building was a two-storey L-shaped flat roofed building consisting of 10 classrooms, a library and a gymnasium designed by McCarter and Nairne, a Vancouver architectural firm. The $150,000 building’s contractors were Smith Bros. & Wilson. Built on a concrete foundation, the structure was made of wood. Pleasing features were a kitchen adjoining the gym, a laboratory, an art room, a staff room, offices and, in the basement, a rifle range. The exterior was white stucco with red trim. For instant contact, an inter-communication system was wired throughout the building. As the community was growing quickly, a decision was made in 1948 to add army barracks behind the main school for needed classroom space. By 1952 even more room was needed so an addition was approved extending the building to the south. enrollment y ear grade 1944-45 9-12 1949-50 7-13 1954-55 7-13 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) # 279 447 937 The Chant Report recommended the inclusion of Grade 7 and 8 in High School. Grade 13 (Senior matriculation) instruction began in September 1946. Prince George Secondary: 1894 9th Avenue at Edmonton site 1945-1956 Legacy of Ray Williston and Harold Moffat Ray Williston was hired as supervising principal and arrived in the late summer of 1945. He was an innovative, energetic and dynamic individual who, together with the chairman of the school board, Harold Moffat, set about getting things done. He sympathized with parents having to purchase textbooks every year, for limited use, so he organized a textbook rental plan. This was later adopted province-wide. “Duchess Park” and the neighbouring school sites were bisected by unused roads so Harold Moffat and he decided it would make sense to eliminate the roads and incorporate the semi-circle into the school grounds. This resulted in a track, soccer field and ball diamonds. A major accomplishment, spearheaded by the two of them, was to establish school dormitories from surplus army barracks and arrange for them to be moved a few blocks from the school. This was life-changing for the many rural students who could now reasonably continue their high school education. In their unorthodox ways they improved education in this city and hired the best and brightest to join them. PRINCIPALS Ray Williston (centre) & Staff Cleaning 1947 Courtesy of Ray Williston, former principal Mr. Harold R. Pennington Mr. Ray Williston Mr. Jack Beech First Staff Graduation Ceremony 1953-54 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection 1944-45 Mr. Rudy G. Kaser Miss Sheila F. Cawley Mr. Robert (Bert) C. Brown Miss Lorna G. Tweed Mrs. Mary Bowman Miss Jean Sibbald Miss Mildred Crawshaw Mr. C. Vincent Miss Eloise A. Kalwiss Mr. Fred J. Sharpe Prince George Secondary: 1894 9th Avenue at Edmonton site 1945-1956 Memories My first stint there was 54/55 and that’s when I was stuck in the little room in the basement of Baron Byng. That little room was so filthy that the girls in my homeroom came early for a week or two and cleaned it top to bottom before class started. My room had not been used as a classroom for some time if ever. There was one washroom in the corner to be used by boys and girls, with a very low ceiling and all the pipes visible. It probably wouldn’t be allowed as a classroom today. But the kids in my classes there were great. Once I had a really bad cold and no phone to use where I lived up in the Millar Addition. So I walked over to another teacher to ask her to tell them I couldn’t come to school that day, but she forgot. The kids ran the classes themselves, and everything went okay. One of the boys did the teacher act and dictated spelling, etc. No one seemed to miss me at all!!! Gwen Norheim, former teacher Mr. R. C. (Bert) Brown had taught math at the high school for so long that he didn’t even need to refer to the textbooks; he just went on to the next lessons from memory. Lorraine (O’Rourke) Knight, former student Did You Know? I n the 1940’s girls walked to Millar Addition/Connaught School for Home Economics classes. By 1949 they only had to walk to Baron Byng, a few steps from the High School. In contrast, the boys only had the short hike to Baron Byng. Mr. Jack Thompson’s Drafting Class Downstairs in Baron Byng Building 1950 Courtesy of Dept. of Education & SD 57 Education Heritage Collection I n the 1953-54 year book, school teams had adopted the name “Polars”. I n 1955 twelve high school teachers were hired from the United Kingdom. Typing Class 1940’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Prince George Secondary: 1894 9th Avenue at Edmonton site 1945-1956 Mr. Al Horrocks & the School Band 1950 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Sock Hop 1948 Courtesy of Lorraine (O’Rourke) Knight, former student Gymnasium To have a gymnasium for the first time greatly enhanced school life: Athletics, drama productions, dances on site! The student council of 1953-54 organized thirteen dances in that 10 month school year. After expanding into the Annex and continuing to use Baron Byng, the High School was still overcrowded and so it was decided that the school would be divided into two. The junior high grades would remain on 9th Avenue and the senior grades would get a new school to be built on Ross Crescent. Some years later PGSS was built on Griffiths Avenue, enabling the junior secondary students to move into the Ross Crescent location. Winton School, which was established in the Annex in 1965, then took possession of 1894 – 9th Avenue and occupied it until it closed in 1973. The final tenant was the School Board Office that, along with the District Resource Centre, inhabited the building from 1981 to 2004. The building was demolished in September 2007. Did You Know? H omeroom classes raised money for various organizations. Class 9D, in 1957-58, raised $50 in a Gun Raffle and donated the $50 to the March of Dimes. The gun was won by a member of the class giving rise to the rumour that the draw was fixed. That was scotched when a second raffle (for a fishing outfit) was won by Demolition of School 2007 Courtesy of John Stevens a boy from a different homeroom. Prince George Secondary: Junior High 1894 9th Avenue at Edmonton site 1955-1958 The junior and senior high separation was done in the 1955-56 school year but both bodies remained at 9th Avenue until the Ross Crescent location for the senior grades was ready for occupancy in September 1956. The junior grades had been assigned to the Annex but could now avail themselves of the whole complex. The Annex was originally one building behind the 9th Avenue high school and later joined by other army ‘huts’. In the early fifties they formed an H-shaped configuration consisting of two singlestorey gable-roofed buildings connected by a two-story flat roofed centre section. There was no interior access to the main school. Prince George Junior High 1950’s SD 57 Education Heritage Collection In September 1958, Prince George Junior High was renamed as Duchess Park Junior High. Memories I was asked by Gordon Payton, the principal at Prince George Junior High, to transfer to his school. I was assigned Girls’ Physical Education – mainly, I believe, because Maurice taught Boys’ P.E. [note: Maurice was her husband.] One of my classes had three divisions together which totaled 60+ girls – a bit of a challenge in a standard size gym. All teachers were expected to take regular supervision duties in various areas of the school and school grounds. In addition, as P.E. teachers, both Maurice and I coached volleyball and basketball teams and traveled to nearby districts for games. This involved weekends and, of course, regular after school practices. Also, during the noon-hour there were the inter-house games to referee and Maurice had to organize the Sports Day each spring. Our staff was a closely-knit group and we socialized a great deal with one another after school hours. Those were indeed great times. Marg Clark, former teacher. Life Before the Pulpmills. I remember the boys swooning over Mrs. (Marg) Clark and the girls swooning over Mr. (Maurice) Clark. Also, the Baron Byng Foods room had a variety of stoves, one being coal-heated. I was proud of being the ‘coal monitor’. Helen (Ridler) Pitchko, former student Prince George Secondary: Junior High 1894 9th Avenue at Edmonton site 1955-1958 Staff PRINCIPAL Mr. Gordon Payton TEACHERS W.S. Gladi’s grade 8F Class 1956-57 Exploration Place 2004.2.482 enrollment y ear grade # 1956 7-9 776 1957 7-9 788 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) School Song Prince George Junior High School Students strong and true; Stand and pull together, Here’s a friendly hand outstretched to you. On to greater triumph – Perfection is our aim; With strength of purpose, energy, Prince George Junior High are we And pals we’ll always be. (sung to the tune of Shipmates Forever) Mr. Phil MacGregor Mrs. Julia Farwell Mrs. Cynthia Brett Mrs. Margaret Clark Miss Marg Layne Mrs. Esther Clark Miss Ann Snowsell Mrs. Bev Wiggins Mrs. Betty Gladwin Mr. Bill Voth Mr. Jack McMillan Mrs. Gwen Norheim Mr. Bill Jack Mrs. Kay Thomson Mr. M. Palmer Mrs. Rene Moss Mr. Peter Knigge Mrs. Ellen Pearson Mr. Peter Warland Mr. Gordon Pearson Mr. Ken Rutherford Mr. Bert Scott Mr. John Abrahams Mr. Don Gough Mr. George Provins Mr. Charlie Brown Mr. Bill Gladwin Mr. Mark Porter Mr. Gil Brett Mr. Maurice Clark Mr. Ian MacKenzie Mr. John Ewing Mr. Fraser McDonald Prince George Secondary: Senior High 2371 Ross Crescent site 1956-1968 Senior High 1960 BC Archive Collection I-23834 In 1956, Prince George’s new $559,000 Senior High School, designed by architect Jolyon Briggs, was built on Ross Crescent at 10th Avenue by the Marpole Construction Co. The four sections, connected by a covered concrete walkway, consisted of a two-storey block of 18 classrooms each measuring 32’ x 24’ with windows along one wall, a heating unit, a practical arts wing with rooms for industrial arts and home economics and, finally, a fieldhouse (gymnasium) which included bleachers, a stage, change rooms and kitchen facilities. The school’s exterior was a combination of stucco and cedar. Opening date was September 1956. Sketch from 1962 Yearbook SD 57 Education Heritage Collection 1962 saw construction at the school as a second classroom wing and offices were added. Also, in 1962, the school name was amended to Prince George Senior Secondary School. Prince George Secondary: Senior High 2371 Ross Crescent site 1956-1968 PRINCIPALs Mr. Lorne Downey Mr. Allan Stables Mr. George H. Bevan First Staff Mod Fashions 1966 Exploration Place P991.09.09.328.3 enrollment y ear grade # 1956 10-13 405 1961 10-13 714 1966 10-13 879 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) 1956-1957 Mr. Tony Embleton Mrs. Susan Carter Mrs. Lois Dallamore Mr. W. A. Devlin Mr. L. Gregoire Mrs. Jean Harder Mr. A. E. Hawkes Mr. Jack Hotell Mr. James L. Johnson Mrs. P. M. Lindsay Miss L. E. Macdonald Mrs. Beryl Maxwell Mrs. Alison Morrow Mr. C. R. Moss Miss A. C. Moyls Mr. Ray Ratcliffe Mr. Frank Shelest Mr. Trevor F. Sterling Mr. Dave Worthy Mr. Al Horrocks The electronic language lab was a boon for French and German students for improving speech and pronunciation. Only a few schools in B.C. were as well equipped. Language Lab 1964 Northern Lights Yearbook 1964 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Prince George Secondary: Senior High 2371 Ross Crescent site 1956-1968 Keeping ‘em busy through the years... ATHLETICS: Basketball, Volleyball, Track, Rugby, Soccer ACTIVITIES: Bowling, Curling, Skiing, Softball, Badminton, Hockey, Tumbling, Cheerleading CLUBS: Newspaper, Inter-School Christian Fellowship, U.F.O., Future Nurses, Future Teachers, Dance, Photography, Library, Drama, Stagecraft, Radio, Science, Red Cross, Projectionist, Glee Club, PEP, Legend Singers, United Nations, Bridge, Annual, Chess, Art, Weightlifting, Host/Hostess committee COUNCILS: Student, Social Service Basketball Sketch 1964 Northern Lights Yearbook SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Curling Team 1967 1967 Northern Lights Yearbook SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The 1967 PGSS Curling team won the BC High School Curling Championships and continued to the Canadian Championships in St. John’s, Nfld. It was the second time in the school’s history that a curling team had qualified for the Nationals. Prince George Secondary: Senior High 2371 Ross Crescent site 1956-1968 Memories When the north wing was added to PGSSS (1962) there was a path up the middle to the office. One nice afternoon we were in homeroom waiting for the buzzer when Mike S. leaned out the window and pulled a sprinkler into the class. The Vice-Principal, Mr. Vogler, saw this from the office and blasted on the P.A. system, “Mike, put that hose down!” I think the whole school heard it! Gail Maxwell, former student In 1963 we had a common room for grade 13 and people could smoke in there and many kids just played bridge and relaxed in there all day (too much freedom, I guess). Imagine being able to smoke in school as big grade thirteeners! I quit in November that year and went to work, as I couldn’t see passing, as the teachers had a very laid back outlook and classes were weird. Maureen (Moore) Fotos, former student Girls & Boys Lining Up for Graduation Held In the Field House (gymnasium) 1960 Exploration Place 2004.2.494 Exploration Place 2004.2.493 When the new PGSS on Griffiths Avenue opened in 1968, the Ross Crescent site was able to take the strain off the 9th Avenue buildings. In the next few years, new junior secondary schools were launched and, for a time, the Duchess Park Junior Secondary was in shared situations with Connaught, Lakewood and Kelly Road. Duchess Park Secondary became the main tenant of the Ross Crescent school and existed there until new quarters were ready for occupancy in March 2010. Ross Crescent School Demolition May 2010 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Prince George Secondary: Griffiths Avenue site 1968 to Present The Great Trek February 1, 1968 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Over 1,000 students braved the elements and trekked along Tenth Avenue and down Central Street from their former school to their new one. They assembled at determined entrances for each grade (11, 12, and 13) before being ushered into the school for their orientation. Architect’s Drawing January 31, 1968 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Designed by local architectural firm Briggs Greenwell Associates and constructed by Smith Bros. & Wilson, the $4,500,000 new high school was certainly the most splendid ever built in Prince George. Constructed of reinforced concrete, it had a soaring foyer with a glass frontage and open staircase. A two-storey quadrangle houses eighty classrooms and a dozen seminar rooms/offices. The north wing consists of the industrial shops and the south wing features a divisible auditorium and a double gym. A large cafeteria leads into a courtyard and overhead is a deluxe library with a mezzanine level. In the January 31, 1968 Prince George Citizen, architect Alan R. Greenwell commented, “Brilliant pinks, magentas, turquoises, tangerines, lemon yellows and various hues of green tastefully coordinated, grace the entrances to every room inside the building. … Generally, most of the color inside the classrooms will be supplied by the girls in bright sweaters and their mini-skirts and stockings.” Prince George Secondary: Griffiths Avenue site 1968 to Present PRINCIPALs Mr. George H. Bevan Mr. Gordon Ballantyne Mr. Lyell Rodger Mr. Doug Hallman Mrs. Bendina Rossler Mr. Kerry Firth Dr. Fred Egglestone Ms. Sharon Cairns Mr. Brian Toll Ms. Sherry Thibault enrollment y ear grade # 1967 11-13 989 1969* 11-12 1438 10-12 1951 1974 1979** 8-12 1708 1989 8-12 1432 1999 8-12 1635 2009 8-12 1287 1597 2010*** 8-12 2013 8-12 1158 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) First Staff Mr. Jim Smith, V.P. Mr. Jim Imrich, Admin. Mr. John Botham Mr. Pat Brady Mrs. Lois Dallamore Mrs. Noreen Delisle Miss Betty Dishaw Mr. Eric Doll Mrs. Sylvia Doll Mr. Dave Dunlop Mr. Dietrich Elias Mr. Charlie Evans Miss Naomi Faulkner Miss Gail Fedje Mr. Stuart Fraleigh Mr. Norm Gilberstad Mr. Geoff Goldie Mr. Keith Gordon Mrs. Carol Gordon Mr. Bill Graham Mr. Paul Gupta Mr. W. Haines Mr. Peter Holmes Mr. Roy Hooker Mr. Harry Hufty Mr. Don Jacques Mr. Hermann Janzen Mr. Ray Kocher Mrs. Margaret Lea Mr. Ken Lindsay Miss Sheila Magee Mr. Rick Marshall Mr. Lee MacKenzie Mr. Rick Meade Mr. Terry Mullen Miss Marjorie Niehaus Mrs. Helen Pitchko Mrs. Penny Puusepp Mr. Pat Roberts Mr. Ken Rogers Mr. Ivan Ross Mr. Gordie Sahlin Mr. Al Schroeder Mr. George Siddall Mr. Trevor Sterling Mr. Ken Tweit Mr. Mark Voelkner Mr. Al Wheeley Mr. Hadden Whitelaw * After CNC opened in 1969, grade 13 ceased. ** When Connaught Jr. burned in 1979 their students joined PGSS making it 8 – 12, and so PGSS (Prince George Senior Secondary) now stood for Prince George Secondary School. The 2002 closure of Blackburn Junior Secondary School added to the PGSS population. *** In 2010, Lakewood Jr. and John McInnis Jr. closed and were absorbed into PGSS. Prince George Secondary: Griffiths Avenue site 1968 to Present REACH FOR THE TOP This popular television contest for secondary schools in British Columbia usually had participants travel to the Vancouver CBUT studios. However, the show filmed at PGSS in the fall of 1973. ACADEMICS Reach for the Top 1974 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The school has always offered a wide range of courses and programs. In the 1990’s, top achievers were able to enroll in the International Baccalaureate program. In 2000, this was replaced with the Advanced Placement option. Innovative elective courses include Hockey, Forensic Science, Health Science, Media Studies. A partnership with the College of New Caledonia gives students the opportunity to start trade and technology courses before they graduate enabling an early start into apprenticeships. If It Moves, It’s Biology; If It Stinks, It’s Chemistry; and If It Doesn’t Work, It’s Physics 1977 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Project-Based Learning 2013-14 New to the province, this interdisciplinary approach is student-centred and suggests the teacher take a guiding rather than a leadership role. Starting from an inquiry, students combine core subjects and design their research and conclusions, integrating technology throughout. Montessori at PGSS The Montessori classroom offers core courses for the junior grades, allowing the students to integrate into the full school for their electives. Many opt to participate in Project-Based Learning. Offering service to the community is an expected responsibility. Prince George Secondary: Griffiths Avenue site 1968 to Present Social Aspects EAGLE CENTRE AT PGSS Courtesy of PGSS website The Eagle Centre is a support for students providing Aboriginal Education workers to counsel, inspire, network and support students. On offer are healing circles, story telling, a drum group, Bannock Fridays, and a Homework Club. On March 12, 2014, Forganza – A Beautiful Destiny was performed at Vanier Hall. PGSS dance students created this multimedia presentation combining elements of aboriginal culture with modern themes forging first nation and nonaboriginal components. GLOW An alliance of gay, lesbian, transgendered and questioning teens is active in the school providing skills and support in conflict situations. Dealing with homophobia and bullying is one aspect of the group countered by planning social events such as dances and guest speakers. Hallway March 11, 2014 Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen Bryan Albano Sketch PGSS 2000 Yearbook Prince George Secondary: Griffiths Avenue site 1968 to Present ATHLETICS EXTRA-CURRICULAR TEAMS • • • • • • • • • Badminton Basketball Cross-Country Football Rugby Ski & Snowboard Soccer Volleyball Wrestling Archery Club 1971 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Girls’ AAAA Volleyball 2003-04 BC Provincial Champions 2004 PGSS Yearbook Men of PGSS Calendar 1985 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection ACTIVITIES • • • • • Both a junior and senior ice hockey program are offered. Students can sign up for Outdoor Education, Coaching, Dance. Lunchtime Intermural games are offered with occasional features such as Wheelchair Basketball. A Fitness Centre is open before school and some lunchtimes. An Athletics Wall of Fame has been created. Prince George Secondary: Griffiths Avenue site 1968 to Present VANIER HALL A highlight when the new PGSS opened was the school’s Vanier Hall theatre. With its main stage and apron/orchestra pit it has been put to multiple uses over the years. Touring dance, theatre and vocal groups have all performed here. Community dance, music, public speaking and debating groups plus public meetings have appreciated the setting. The school itself has used the hall (which can be separated into two facilities) for assemblies. Adjacent band and music rooms, as well as the stage, are teaching areas. Steve Baker, teacher of the senior acting class, scriptwriting class and stagecraft class combined the efforts of the various groups to present a theatrical production in December 2012 entitled “Get Smart.” Inspecting Hall Construction 1968 Exploration Place P991.09.11.307.3 Get Smart Poster 2012 Students Hanging Out 1980 Courtesy of PGSS website SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Polar Performing Arts Focus New for September 2013, students who are active in community performing arts endeavours can now apply to a school program to have flexible graduation requirements. Students will be expected to work on school performances involving other students while taking courses in music, dance and theatre education and appreciation. Academic success is a requirement. Valemount Secondary 201 Ash Street, Valemount 1974 to Present “A natural place to learn and live...” Mission Statement In a partnership with the community, the purpose of Valemount Secondary School is to provide a safe and personal environment for all to become life-long learners. Valemount Secondary 2016 Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher History From approximately 1950, Valemount Elementary School provided junior high school courses to students of the Canoe Valley. In 1956, the school name was changed to Valemount Superior School reflecting the elementary and secondary composition of classes. In September 1962, the school name became Valemount Elementary Junior Secondary. A renovation and expansion for the school was designed by Briggs Greenwell Architects and begun in 1965. Valemount Secondary came into existence in September 1974. A new school was to be built for the elementary grades and, while it was being constructed the elementary classes ran from 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and the secondary classes ran from 12:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m. This meant a sharing of desks, classrooms, blackboards, etc. and it was slightly chaotic to teach at 4:00 p.m. on snowy January afternoons. The elementary classes moved into their new building at Easter in 1975 while the secondary classes remained in the existing school at 1300 6th Avenue. Many of the senior students were sent to Kamloops, Edmonton or Prince George, but mainly they went to McBride where dormitory accommodation was available. In June 1975, senior courses and electives were finally offered locally and 12 students graduated. That was an event that much of the town attended. It was a banner year for education in the community. Valemount Secondary Valemount’s first graduation class 1975 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection By the millennium the school building was in very poor shape and so, around 2002, the Parent Advisory Committee chairperson, Tim Nusse, and a group of dedicated parents began to actively pursue the construction of a new secondary school. There was a real concern about a lack of equality with other schools, particularly with regard to the school gym (the old school gym was about half-size). The solution was long and complicated. In the end the school, after a number of building examinations, was deemed unrepairable. The school district was then able to suggest to the Ministry of Education that a new building was needed. Valemount Secondary on 6th Street c 2004 Courtesy of Judy Holmin Exterior murals c 2004 Courtesy of Judy Holmin Having the Ministry of Education approve funds for a new school was no simple matter. The Liberal government at the time (2002–2003) suggested the school community consider entering in a P.P.P. (Public Private Partnership) that meant if the community raised money, the Ministry might add to it. The town fundraised and astonishingly raised approximately $230,000 with some of it being corporate donations. In 2003, the provincial government announced that a new school had been approved for Valemount. The 35,000 square foot complex was designed by Meiklejohn Architects, Inc. and built by Maloney Construction Ltd. Valemount Secondary BC Government Caucus News Release 2003 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection In December 2005, on the last day of school before Christmas, the students and staff moved across town and into the new building. During the Christmas break, and for months after with the help of office staff, teachers, support staff and SD 57 maintenance, the school slowly took shape. School District #57 funded a full equipment replacement budget. The new school has a full-size gym, a community theatre and a large open foyer. Athletic tournaments are held regularly, and the community is completely involved in attending cultural events, craft fairs and evening drop-in events. The school is an invaluable part of this community. In 2006, the old school was demolished and the cleared property was put up for sale. Grade 10 class 1980-1981 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Valemount Secondary PRINCIPALS Ken Wilson Vince Rabitte Verne Thompson Don Taylor Dan Kenkel VICE PRINCIPALS Don Taylor Jamie Gray EARLY STAFF Laurel Whatley Robert L. Rustad Karen Rustad Rita Ricks Dwayne Svendson Tony Hartnell Joan O’Hara Jill Dubroy Glenn Monteith Pat Day Don Taylor Don Gordon Verne Thompson Jean Froescul Keith Mauthe Jamie Gray Louise MacLean Rem Ricks, student teacher 1990 cartoon by Jim Mueck, student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection 1990 cartoon by Jim Mueck, student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection ENROLLMENT YEAR 1974 1979 1984 1989 1994 1999 2004 2009 2016 GRADE 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 8-12 # 168 175 163 127 145 160 142 89 80 Source: Public Schools Annual Report (s) Staff 1980-1981 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Valemount Secondary PROGRAMS Offering a full slate of academic and elective courses for a small school has been a real challenge. One solution has been MOODLE, an online learning platform that students take in-house. A teacher supervises, guides and grades each student, which results in a very successful completion rate and in more students fulfilling their Dogwood requirements. Valemount Secondary students have selected senior courses including: First Nations 12, Digital Photography, Literature, Spanish, History, and Chemistry. For Horticulture 11, SD 57 carpenters built a 16’ x 20’ greenhouse and students built planting boxes. Students, under the direction of teacher, Dan Lawless, select the vegetables to grow, plant the seeds and tend the plants that include lettuce, spinach, radishes, carrots and tomatoes. Greenhouse 2016 Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher ACTIVITIES & CLUBS School activities have been numerous reflecting the home-school community connection. Some of these include Winter Sports Day, intramurals, Slave Day, Cake Walks, Penny drives, dances, Pumpkin Carving and sock hops. The school staff has sponsored many clubs over the years including: • Wrestling Club • Curling Club • Radio Club • Library Club • Annual/Yearbook Club • Computer Club • Drama Club • Cross-Country Ski Club 1990 cartoon by Jim Mueck, student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection 1990 cartoon by Jim Mueck, student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Valemount Secondary The Valemount Secondary mountain bike team was organized by teacher, Les VanderRoest, in 2007. The new club quickly became popular due to the easy access of excellent riding terrain and the sponsor teacher’s enthusiasm. With the support of parents, the club attended riding events in Prince George and Jasper where they proved to be very competitive. As the team grew in size, students travelled to various locations in B.C., attending school competitions in the interior and lower mainland (Whistler). For a number of years the team was very successful and eventually placed as the top mountain bike team in the province. Many of those who rode with the school team remain in Valemount and still ride regularly. All of Valemount is very proud of the accomplishments of the school mountain bike team. 1990 cartoon by Jim Mueck, student SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Cyclists, February 22, 2006 Courtesy of The Valley Sentinel “The Home of the Timberwolves” Athletic options have included: • Volleyball • Basketball • Wrestling • Badminton • Floor Hockey Jump ball, April 26, 2006 Courtesy of The Valley Sentinel Valemount Secondary SPECIAL EVENTS The Valemount region is very supportive of the arts. The school has had many courses and clubs reflecting these cultural interests. The students are often invited to perform at various venues in town and its surrounding resorts. “Café au Loup’ Arts Night Valemount Secondary School Band 1998 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Community Celebrates Incredible Spirit “My flabber was gasted,” said Don Taylor, principal of Valemount Secondary School in reference to the highly successful Community Spirit Celebrations held March 7, 8 and 9, “I had no thought that it would be this successful.” Taylor said that during the planning stages back in September he had some apprehensions about the three-day event. “I know it’s a pretty huge job when you’re moving hundreds of plates and cups and spoons and desserts, and organizing theatre performances and sports demonstrations. But it was such an incredible success, everything went smoothly.” … School District 57 Secretary Treasurer, Bryan Mix, who attended the theatre performances on March 9, said that this kind of community-school partnership is unprecedented. “The whole event was very impressive. I have been involved with a lot of school openings over the years and joint community partnerships, but last night when I walked in here and saw how the community has adopted the school and saw it being used, which is exactly what the community wanted; it was pretty incredible.” Project Architect Jim Meiklejohn was also amazed at the event. He said he has never been invited back to a celebration like this, and it was refreshing to see the whole town using the spaces they had envisioned. “All we do as architects is sort of arrange spaces and hopefully create opportunities for things to happen and then when you see them happening and the community coming alive inside them it’s a great feeling.” ... March 15, 2006 Courtesy of The Valley Sentinel Newspaper Before the days of UNBC, students of McBride and Valemount Secondary schools would combine to take tours of the lower mainland colleges and universities, taking in the sights (hockey games, Science World) as well. Valemount Secondary Band students enjoyed travelling and performing at other centres, including Vancouver. Opportunities were also available for travelling in Europe. Band trip to Vancouver 1990 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Did You Know? F rom 1946 to 1970, Valemount schools were part of School District #58 (McBride). In 1970, after a controversial amalgamation, they were included in School District #57 (Prince George). A massive garage sale, held in early June 2006 in the old high school, offered up equipment and furniture, including a piano, that were no longer needed as the new school was newly endowed. I n 2014, all the grads and their escorts were transported to a ridge near Tete Jaune by the sponsors, Robson Helimagic. The views of Mount Robson and Whitehorn were spectacular, as were the stunning grads. A n example of the distances travelled by school teams is exemplified by the VSS Senior Girls’ Basketball team who travelled 4592 km to play 23 games in the 99/00 season. Grads in the alpine, June 17, 2014 Courtesy of the Rocky Mountain Goat newspaper T he efforts to raise travel funds, both by the school and the community, is to be commended as it can be difficult to support groups in a small community that is distant from other towns. I n February 2017, the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George board of directors approved a grant for $2,500 to Valemount Secondary School for provincial basketball travel expenses. Memories Valemount Secondary In the early 1980’s there was a concern regarding ‘challenged materials’ in schools. One faction (led by an elderly McKirdy sister) believed that almost everything we had should be banned (including many prescribed textbooks). The other faction (led by the other elderly McKirdy sister) believed that kids’ minds should be broadened and hence we should allow a much more enlightened variety of literature (including magazines like Playboy). It was decided that a public meeting was to be held in the school gym in front of a panel from Prince George to discuss the issue. The 175 citizens (the school had only 150 kids) showed up for this meeting. The rookie principal chaired the meeting. The panel listened and took notes. The panel then returned to Prince George and came up with what is still to this day Board Policy on reviewing and/or challenging school resources. Some in the community were astonished to learn that you actually have to read the material if you wanted to challenge it. Norm Monroe 2005, retired Assistant Superintendent “Valemount”, I had never heard of it, but the name brought visions of beauty. I daydreamed while we packed, of valleys, people, mountains, schools. The moment we arrived, we were driving in from Tete Jaune when all of a sudden we turned a corner on the sandy dusty road, and there, in front of us, was the majestic splendor of Canoe Mountain! I was thrilled. Valemount was beautiful. All around us were mountain peaks some still covered with snow. Swift Creek was tumbling by, and it was love at first sight! Now, when I come back to visit, it’s the same feeling. I look first for Canoe Mountain, then Packsaddle Mountain. I looked at Packsaddle every morning when I opened the drapes. It was my weather vane. I checked the colours. If spring was on its way I looked first for the delicate greens of the poplar, the birches, etc. In the fall I looked for the first reds and yellows. Of course the first dusting of snow on the peaks told us to prepare for winter. I miss that view still. Joyce Marlow 1984, former parent Yellowhead Pass and Its People. Valemount Historic Society, 1984. In 1974-75, before the elementary school was completed, the building was certainly over-crowded and there were two portables parked at the west end. As school secretary I worked in a packed office that contained three clerical desks, file cabinets, a huge PA systems, both a gestetner and a duplicating machine, along with all office and student supplies. I didn’t move into the new (elementary) building but I liked the secondary staff and was happy to stay. Staff get-togethers were encouraged and this ranged from a welcome back staff party, an occasional early morning breakfast in the home economics room, pot-luck luncheons, timely birthday cakes and a year-end breakfast at a local restaurant complete with farewell gifts. Valemount Secondary Because Valemount is a small community it sometimes was a challenge to find accommodation for new staff. Don Taylor, the principal, and I were often scrambling to find someplace suitable and one year I even hosted a new teacher at my home. The year I retired was the year the new secondary school was completed and it was a very busy time. Along with my regular responsibilities I had to order, receive and store new furnishings, classroom supplies, gym and shop equipment, musical instruments, etc. That year I spent the Christmas holidays unpacking supplies, organizing the office, the staffroom, the bookroom, the gym storage and the home ec. room, hoping to be ready when the staff and students arrived for the first day of classes. At the end of that school year I retired with the satisfaction of having helped two sites of Valemount Secondary School be up and running. Jean Froescul, retired secretary Valemount students at one time had to take their grade 11 and 12 in McBride. In the late 1960’s I was one of them. We would take the school bus from Valemount on a Monday morning and meet the McBride bus at Small River and transfer over to be at school on time. Dorm life for most of us was our first small taste of independence. The dorm was split between the boys’ end and the girls’ end and was strictly supervised. The matrons lived on-site cooking and cleaning for us. We had free time in the evening from 7 to 9 and on movie nights we were allowed to be 15 minutes late which meant a fast run from “uptown”. The rooms had two sets of bunk beds and a large individual closet per person. Lights out at 10; flashlights and giggling on at 10:05. We had only small kitchen duties and the rest of the time was for our schoolwork. Friday nights found us back on the bus heading for Valemount for the weekend. Our bus driver was Harold Maxwell and he was always a welcome sight – we had such a good time with him. Bella (Meersman) Neale 2017, former student. Dormitories in McBride 1973 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Programs & Services Adult Education Alternative Education District Resource Centre Prince George Dormitory Prince George Teachers’ Curling League Rural Teacherages School District No. 57 (Prince George) Schools—Superintendents—Trustees Singfest Swim Program Adult Education “From Night School to Continuing Education to the Centre for Learning Alternatives” Evening School It is proposed to start an Evening School in South Fort George. All desiring information as to courses, etc., apply to A. OGSTON at Public School from 3:30 to 4 p.m. November 22, 1913 Courtesy of the Fort George Herald Night School badge c1985 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Prince George has had a long history of night school classes. In 1921-22 Mr. W.P. Beal, principal of the public school, was placed in charge of the night classes as he had taken a summer course concerning night school. The courses offered were arithmetic, bookkeeping, English literature, and spelling. Through the 1920’s various academic, business and practical courses, such as millinery, could be taken. In 1927, privately offered commercial classes were available. High school by correspondence was an option by 1929. In the 1930’s, an Adult Educational Institute was established locally with 35 members who paid $1 per term to enroll for lectures and debates in various fields. Also, government-sponsored DominionProvincial Rural Occupational Classes were set up in McBride and Woodpecker offering studies in agriculture, mechanics, family relationships, handicrafts, domestic management and dramatics. During the war years, city school teachers volunteered to lead classes for soldiers stationed in Prince George. For two nights a week enlisted men could upgrade their elementary and high school studies with a view to be eligible for technical advancement in the forces. The Prince George school board, under the auspices of the B. C. government, passed a resolution in September 1956, to establish a Night School program for School District #57. Prince George was experiencing some of the effects of a booming provincial economy and the development of adult education reflected the development of the region. The first Director of Night school was Mr. John Ewing (1956-1959). He was a full time teacher at Duchess Park Jr. High School and $900.00 was added to his regular teaching salary. The night school office was located in Duchess Park High School, then located on 9th Avenue at Edmonton Street. The population of Prince George in 1956 was 10,563. Mr. Ewing was succeeded by Mr. Phil McGregor (1959-1962) under a similar arrangement. Adult Education Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen October 15, 1951 Mr. Frank Marshall, an industrial arts teacher at Duchess Park Junior High, was appointed as Director in 1962 and held that position until 1964. He was authorized to hire an assistant and Mr. John Norman, a physical education teacher at Duchess Park was paid $400.00 for his services in that capacity for the 19621963 term. The program had grown slowly in the first few years but by 1963, it had more than doubled from its first enrollment of 305 students. Mr. Marshall’s position became half-time with the other half of his contract allotted to regular teaching duties of counseling and guidance at the Junior High. His salary as Night School Director was $1500.00. The establishment of new industries in town resulted in the offering of courses such as Industrial First Aid, Typing, and Math 10. The large increase in home building seems responsible for much of the interest in courses such as Blueprint Reading, Woodwork, Upholstery, and Horticulture. General interest and leisure courses were also popular. Chinese Cooking was taught by esteemed restauranteur Jack Lee, Gourmet Cooking was given by the chef of the Simon Fraser Hotel, Fly Fishing lessons took place under the able instruction of Royal Bank Manager Harry Lomax, and Law for the Layman was a course given under the tutelage of local lawyer Ted MacLatchy. The night school brochure for 1964 also reflects the influx of many young families. Such choices as Parent Education, Introduction to Psychology, Conversational French, English for New Canadians, and Square Dancing were popular courses. The position of director for such a sprawling northern district as Prince George was not without its problems. The school district did not include McBride and Mackenzie until a few years later but it did extend as far south as Hixon. Mr. Marshall remembered traveling to Hixon one winter night on very slippery roads to register and collect fees from a very enthusiastic Ladies’ Keep Fit class. He also remembered spending time organizing a new provincial government course called Basic Skill Development Training. Everything was in place and instructors had been hired when the program was suddenly taken over by the opening of the Prince George Vocational School in 1962. Mr. J. R. Wickens was appointed director for the period of 1964-1966. He recalled that there was a total night school population of 785 students in 26 different classes. Interestingly 310 of those students were square dancers. The square dance club had realized that they could dance in their same preferred location much cheaper by registering as a night school group rather than renting as a private club. Several other private groups did the same. Mr. Jack Hotell was appointed half-time director in 1966 from his responsibility as vice-principal/ math teacher at the Prince George Senior Secondary School. In 1966-1967 the director’s job became a full-time position with an enrollment of 4437 students in 229 classes. The night school office was now located in the Prince George Senior Secondary School. Mr. Hotell enjoyed his work and recollected that during the late 1960’s many of the services that exist for people today could be found only at night school. Adult Education Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen February 20, 1973 The years between 1966 and 1979 were a period of continued growth and prosperity for both the city and night school. The population of Prince George in 1979 had grown to 59,939. Mr. Hotell saw the program expand from serving approximately 4000 students to 9000 students. During this time many new requests for courses came from varied agencies such as the Department of Education, the Department of Social Welfare, the Department of Agriculture, the B.C. Institute of Technology, the B.C. Development Corporation, and the Greater Vancouver Immigrant Services Society. Other courses came about at the request of local service clubs, community groups, individuals, or the director deciding to try something new. Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen March 4, 1974 Instructors had some expertise in their field and came from all walks of life. At first they were all paid the same rate but then the Prince George Teachers’ Association made a contractual arrangement with the board that any qualified teacher teaching night school would be paid according to the terms of that agreement which was considerably higher than what was being paid. In order to meet budget requirements Mr. Hotell, whenever he could, tried to avoid hiring certified teachers. The College of New Caledonia was established in 1969. It offered first and second year university courses and assumed the responsibilities of the Prince George Vocational School. In 1974, CNC expanded its role in community education and, along with other growing community organizations like the YMCA, hobby and sports groups, community schools and church organizations, began to offer some of the same activities that had been traditionally the sole province of night school. By the late 1970’s the impact of this was felt and by 1983 night school had leveled out at roughly 5400 students. Mr. Hotell retired from his position as Night School Director in 1983. After 17 years of service his name had almost become synonymous with night school in School District #57. The school district formed the Adult Learning Cenre in 1980 with a focus of upgrading and offering academic courses. Adult Education Mrs. Denise Goodkey was hired in 1983. The position had been given a new name and a new mandate. Mrs. Goodkey was titled the Coordinator of Continuing Education and she was responsible to the Director of Curricular Services for planning, developing, coordinating, implementing, and evaluating continuing education services in the district. Mrs. Goodkey was assisted by a business manager and regular secretarial help at the office which was now located in the Central Fort George Elementary School annex on 3rd Avenue. Through the early 1980’s Prince George, like the rest of the province, suffered from several years of unemployment, labor unrest, government restraint in educational spending, and an uncertain future. There was much competition for the adult education dollars which resulted in a definite decline in continuing education registration. Nevertheless, in 1986, night school served approximately 5000 people. Mrs. Goodkey observed that night school remained a cheaper and, in some cases, a psychologically safer place for many adult students in the community. Whereas going to college may have provided status to some students, it was frightening to others. Driver Training Car, 1983 Ford Escort SD 57 Education Heritage Collection In June 1986 this car was hit by a motorist going through a red light. The car was replaced. Courtesy of Prince George This Week September, 1990 A new school act passed in 1987 meant more changes to the area of continuing education. The Night School program of 1956 was gone. It had changed with the times and evolved into the new Continuing Education Program. The focus of “Learning for Life” became more academic, although leisure courses were offered into the new millenium. The College of New Caledonia and the new University of Northern British Columbia would augment adult education in the region. Courtesy of the Prince George Citizen October 8, 1994 Adult Education Christopher Boyle was the Coordinator of Continuing Education from 1991 to 2000. Under Mr. Boyle’s leadership, night school courses expanded and became a source of fair income for the school. In 2000, Chris Boyle retired and Teresa Saunders was appointed as Principal of Continuing Education. In 2001, Continuing Education’s main site moved from the Central Fort George Elementary School annex on 3rd Avenue to a downtown “storefront location” on the corner of 4th Avenue and Victoria Street. At this time night school courses (for a fee) were focused on industry training, and workplace and recreational courses, many offered in partnership with the Open Learning Institute. In 2003, Continuing Education ceased offering evening fee-paying courses to focus solely on academic skills upgrading and grade 11 and 12 courses leading to the Adult Graduation Diploma. Courses were offered year-round to adult students at five Adult Learning Centres: 4th Avenue, Hart Shopping Centre, College Heights Shopping Centre (until Gladstone Elementary closed at which time the College Heights satellite program was moved into that building), the Prince George Correctional Centre and the Hudta Lake Correctional Camp. Courses were free for students who had not yet graduated from high school and these programs flourished. In 2003, the School District amalgamated Continuing Education, the Central Interior Distance Education Program and all of the Community Alternative Programs for secondary students. The new program was named “The Centre for Learning Alternatives” under the principalship of Teresa Saunders. Within that year, the main site was moved from the 4th Avenue location to the corner of 2nd Avenue and Quebec Street, a building that provided more space for the various programs. It was during this period that the school district also initiated an International Education Program under the Centre for Learning Alternatives administration. In 2007, Chris Molcak succeeded Teresa Saunders as Principal of the Centre for Learning Alternatives. Steve Fleck, who had been the vice-principal of the program, became the Principal of International Education. In 2010, the program was again relocated, this time to the former John McInnis Junior Secondary School at 3400 Westwood Drive. With this move, the Adult Learning Centre and the Central Interior Distance Education program continued to operate as in the past and many of the Community Alternative Programs that had been in housed in satellite spaces were now able to be housed under one roof. More services to students were available than was previously possible. Each program has remained independent and now expanded with the facilities of a gym, a home economics lab, plus woodworking and mechanics shops. “Night School” served society in an efficient and effective manner for many years. It was a branch of education that generated good public relations with residents, and was supported by the populace both in times of prosperity and economic depression. Many people had their lives changed because of the opportunities provided by night school, who, in turn, helped their community become a better and more interesting place to live. Night School evolved in SD 57 over many years, adapting to the changing times in society, in the educational landscape within our city, and in the demands of the skills needed to be successful in today’s workplace. Today, the Centre for Learning Alternatives continues to provide opportunities not only for adults who need a second chance to gain their grade 12 graduation diploma, but also for youth who need an “alternate” schooling option in order to successfully reach that goal, a key to further success in life. Adult Education Congratulations Ruth Chudley 2004 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Alternative Education INTRODUCTION Programs and services in SD 57 were developed to support “at risk” students who did not fit the usual profile needed to achieve success in a “regular” school program. These students have social/emotional/ behavioural needs that sometimes overwhelm the resources of a mainstream placement. Some students have academic challenges while others have a diagnosed learning disability that requires significant adaptations to ensure success. Others may be academically capable, but their emotional or mental health issues affect their ability to cope in a regular classroom setting or even in a regular secondary school setting. The term “alternative” refers to any program that provides a format that is different from a mainstream class. The term “alternate” refers to specific curriculum in SD 57 that provide students who are academically able with a different way of demonstrating their learning. All students in alternative programs, past and present, are given the respect, support and curriculum that they need to be successful. Teachers, youth care workers and educational assistants in these programs have a special ability to relate to “at risk” youth. HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE In the 1960’s, students with special needs attended classes at Winton School. The program moved to Duchess Park School in 1969. This program offered students an opportunity to upgrade their academic skills in the mornings. In the afternoons, the students attended industrial education, home economics, physical education and art classes. There was also a work experience component. In June 1974, the program was phased out and junior high students were moved to classes at Prince George Secondary School. This was the forerunner of the Pre-Employment Program in SD 57. In the late 1970’s, a committee of teachers, administrators and the SD 57 Job Education Officer, Jack Lunden, developed the first “Work Study and Work Experience Handbook”. This was the basis for the development of Work Experience programs for Special Learning Resource (SLR), Pre-Employment Program (PEP) and Alternate Education students. Members of this committee were Jack Lunden, Jim Imrich, Jeanne Anderson, Amy Clements and Dave Vawter. Alternative Education SCHOOL-BASED PROGRAMS PRE-EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM (PEP) The first school based program for “at risk” youth was developed in 1978-1979 at D. P. Todd Secondary. Learning Assistance teacher, Judy Addie, saw the need for a different program to suit the needs of “gray area” students. These were students who did not meet the criteria to be supported in Special Needs classes. They were not “mentally challenged”; however their skills were significantly below grade level. With the support of administrators Phil Caswell and Art Reed, a program involving academic upgrading, life skills and work experience was developed. Jack Lunden, Job Education Officer, was a key person in developing the program as he knew, and proved by example, that a successful work experience placement led to improved self-esteem and success in other areas of school. Although not politically correct today, Mr. Lunden would say, “we sent out a boy (on work experience) and he came back a man”. Early Work Experience teachers Paula Shepherd and Chris Lear worked tirelessly to provide community placements for students. The Jack Lunden Memorial Bursary is presented annually to a SD 57 PEP or Alternate Education student who excels in Work Experience. By the late 1980’s each secondary school had at least one program. By 1988, the PreEmployment program had its first “Best Practices” handbook which let to the “PEP Resource Guide, Parts 1 and 2” developed by Kathi Hughes and district PEP teachers in 1999 and 2000. PEP student on Work Experience SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Alternative Education The September 2000 “PEP Resource Guide” defines a PEP student as one “who has not achieved success in the mainstream, and who has not had the academic/social/emotional/life experiences upon which schools build success”. It adds that “there is a direct correlation between how the student feels about him/herself (self-esteem) and how he/she acts.” Finally it states that “through proper assessment and realistic goal-setting the student can alter both his/her self-esteem and behaviours”. Each student in a Pre-Employment Program is on an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) which, according to the “PEP Resource Guide”, “identifies their social/emotional/behavioural goals, strategies for achieving the goals and evaluation of goal attainment”. Students in PEP who successfully complete the goals outlined in their IEP participate in their school’s valedictory ceremony. Students receive a School Completion certificate rather than a Dogwood certificate at the end of grade 12. In the early years of PEP students “graduated” after grade 10 because the job market at the time led to access to jobs, especially in the forest industry. Initially the students had their own graduation ceremony with a dinner and speeches. When PEP students were first included in one school’s valedictory ceremony they were required to wear a different coloured gown and their names were in a separate part of the program. This discrimination no longer exists; current ceremonies celebrate the success of all students. Judy Addie & Jack Lunden with D.P. Todd grads SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Alternative Education JUNIOR ALTERNATE EDUCATION In the early 1980’s, the need for school-based alternative programs became a reality. Kelly Road Secondary, Mackenzie Secondary and Prince George Secondary were the first schools to implement a district-wide Junior Alternate Education (Grade 10 equivalency) Program. By the late 1980’s, each secondary school had at least one program in operation. By 1987, Junior Alternate had its first “Best Practices” handbook. This led to the “Junior Alternate Ed Resource Guide Parts 1 and 2”, developed in 1998 and 2000. The teachers in these early programs developed the curricula for Math 10, Science 10, English 10 and Socials 10. All curricula used in the Junior Alternative Education programs were set up in the same format with unit tests and cumulative tests. Mastery learning was the key in the early days, and students had to work hard to achieve success. According to the “Junior Alternate Education Resource Guide” in September 2000, “…mastery learning involves the teaching/learning/practice of a skill or concept until mastery is achieved. Most students in the Junior Alternate Education program are expected to achieve 80% or better on unit work and tests before proceeding to the next unit”. If students did not meet the required 80%, review work, individualized teaching and extra study time were required. Assessment was both formative and summative with 80% on unit tests and 50% on cumulative tests being the passing grade. In 1994, SD 57 Alternate Education teachers developed the “Light and Rapid Curriculum Based Assessment” that was administered to all students to ensure they had requisite skills for success. This assessment included a math survey, a general knowledge test, a reading selection, a writing component as well as the Stanford Blue Reading test. Teachers met monthly on school time to share ideas, information about students and to develop curriculum. It was standard practice to bring a box to carry away a new unit or worksheet or an entire new curriculum. Kathi Hughes continued this sharing of curricula in her role as District Teacher for Alternative Programs. Sharing of information and having a standardized curricula, as well as the same expectations, meant that a student could continue his program if he transferred to a new school. It was not uncommon to hear a student say “Oh, you sound like my old teacher, Mrs. X.” Junior Alternate Education students at work SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Alternative Education Special events were also planned at these monthly meetings and the District Softball tournaments and Purden Ski Days were highlights of the year for staff and students. Youth care workers played a significant role in Alternative Education by helping students with their social/ emotional needs, their day-to-day challenges and access to community support such as Intersect counseling. SENIOR ALTERNATE EDUCATION In 1986, Mackenzie Secondary started to work on the development of a Senior Alternate Education program. In 1987, programs began at Kelly Road Secondary and Prince George Secondary. By the early 1990’s, each secondary school had a grade 11 and 12 program. By 1992, the Senior Alternate program had its first “Best Practices” handbook. This led to the “Senior Alternate Education Resource Guide” developed in the early 2000’s. Senior Alternate Education offered students the opportunity to complete the requirements of a Dogwood certificate while remaining in an alternative program. Some students also attended mainstream classes while others accessed Correspondence or Distance Education courses to complete the required number of credits. These senior courses were academically demanding and were open to only those students who were academically able to have success. The pass mark was 50%, not the 80% required in the Junior Alternate Education courses. These courses were set up in the same style with units, unit tests and cumulative tests so that students could continue to work on the courses at their own pace. COMMUNITY BASED PROGRAMS STOREFRONT ALTERNATE PROGRAM The first Storefront classroom was opened in 1979 in a downtown storefront location at the corner of 7th Avenue and Victoria Street. The first program was developed to provide educational opportunities to students whose challenges had led to them being removed from regular secondary schools. The program moved to an annex of Harwin Elementary, the former Aurora School, in the mid-1980’s. This building, now demolished, became a second home for many students who found the support and educational programming that they needed to succeed. A second program was added in 1988 to bring the total to 24 full-time students and 10 home study students. There were two full-time teachers, Kathi Hughes and Barb Strom, as well as a full-time youth care worker, Vivien Lougheed. Other early Storefront teachers were Al Macdonald and Shawna MacRae. Alternative Education Storefront students with Barb Strom & Vivien Lougheed SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Annual softball tournament hosted by Storefront SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Storefront moved to the former South Fort George Elementary School site, renamed the Family Resources Centre, under the leadership of Andrew Wilson. Eventually, it moved to the Centre for Learning Alternatives at the John McInnis Centre. The objective of the program is to meet the social-emotional, career and academic needs of adolescents aged 15 to 17, who are not experiencing success in regular or school-based alternative programs. All students were on Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs) that outlined their academic and behavioural goals and any adaptations needed. Programming included work study, work experience, life skills, social skills, individual and group counseling as well as physical education and academics. The academic component used the curricula set up for the Junior Alternate Education (Grade 10) or Pre-Employment Program. Highlights of the Storefront school program were lunches, an annual Mt. Robson trip, a ski day at Purden with other Alternate Education classes and the annual Alternate Education Softball tournament that was hosted by Storefront staff and students. Students at Storefront also participated in a variety of community services, such as shovelling snow for seniors and trail clearing at Otway. PATHWAYS Pathways Educational Program began in 1988 providing a program for pregnant and/or teen parents who were working on a graduation program. It was a partnership between SD 57 and the Ministry for Children and Families. Elizabeth Fry Society was contracted to provide additional emotional/social support and guidance. It also provided a daycare for the children of the teen parents. The academic and life skill component was provided in a classroom at Duchess Park Secondary while the daycare was located across the street from the school. The young parents were often seen dashing across the street to see their children at the recess or lunch breaks. The classroom at Duchess Park was a former Home Economics room so it had a kitchen facility that was used in the life skills section. A healthy breakfast was provided daily. Alternative Education The students used the SD 57 Junior and Senior Alternate Education curricula to upgrade their academics. They could also enroll in mainstream classes at Duchess Park. Life skills, parenting classes, as well as a Family Management course were designed to address the needs of the young parents. There were 12 full-time students in the program with one teacher and one youth care worker. The Pathways program closed in December 2003 due to declining enrollment. The educational needs of young mothers were being met by the Teen Mothers’ Alternative Program (TMAP). TEEN MOTHERS’ ALTERNATIVE PROGRAM (TMAP) The Teen Mothers’ Alternative Program was developed in 1997 to suit the needs of pregnant teens and/or teen mothers who were working on upgrading their academics or completing a grade 10 equivalency using the Junior Alternate Education curricula. The program began at the former Elizabeth Fry Society building on South Queensway Avenue. The classroom and the daycare were in the same building. Other services were available to the teen mothers through the Elizabeth Fry offices and programs. All students in TMAP were on an individualized educational program (IEP) that outlined their goals and adaptations or modifications needed. This started as a half-day program and it was increased to a full day in 1998. It was staffed by one full-time teacher, Ruth (Mason) Walter, and one youth care worker, Adele Mackenzie, who for many years were the mainstays of this program. In December 2002, TMAP moved to its current location in the Elizabeth Fry Family Centre on Fifth Avenue. The classroom is on one side and the daycare is across the hall. There is a small sitting area where moms can nurse their babies. Students use a variety of curricula to meet their academic goals. In addition to academics, the students are given the opportunity to complete certification for Food Safe, First Aid and Serving it Right. Some highlights of this program are the access to the support of an Outreach worker as well as programs such as “Healthiest Babies”, now called “Babies’ New Beginnings”. Students are also able to access court workers, victim services and counselling through Elizabeth Fry. TMAP students participate in the Centre for Learning Alternatives graduation ceremony in June each year. The achievements of all students are celebrated and often the young children of these graduates are in attendance with their proud grandparents. Alternative Education TRANSITIONAL ALTERNATE PROGRAM (TAPS) TAPS began in 1992 as a program for older students who needed an alternative to secondary school mainstream or alternative education classes. It was designed to meet the individual social/emotional, academic and career needs of adolescents aged 17 to 19 who had the requisite skills to achieve a Dogwood or an Adult Dogwood diploma. The program was originally called Portable Education when it was established in a portable classroom on the grounds of Spruceland Elementary. It was later moved to the Log House (now demolished) at the College of New Caledonia. From there it moved to various locations including the Trades Wing at CNC. In September 2003, TAPS moved into a separate building on the grounds of CNC. Early TAPS teachers were Sarah Petrisor and Dave Holmes who went on to be school administrators in SD 57. The expectations for students in this program are very high with attendance being closely monitored. Students are treated like adults and are expected to attend regularly, phone if they are absent due to illness and to conduct themselves as if they were “on the job”. The philosophy is that all students can achieve their potential and they are told “We believe in you. You can do it!” TAPS students are able to choose from more than 25 courses. Some are self-paced while others are teacher taught. All these courses lead to a Dogwood or Adult Dogwood diploma. Some of the highlights of the program are access to courses and facilities at the college, their own graduation ceremony and the annual Mt. Robson trip. This program has grown from 24 students to 120 students. Many TAPS students receive scholarships and bursaries to help them with their post-secondary education. Some of these are from SD 57 while others are from the B.C. Alternative Education Association. The Kathi Hughes Award is presented annually to a student who epitomizes the whole person and who shows leadership in all areas. The valedictory ceremony, held in late June, is a special day for TAPS students, their teachers, youth care workers and families. Students who receive that cherished Dogwood or Adult Dogwood celebrate that their success is due to hard work and personal achievement, often against great odds. Mount Robson trip was a highlight SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Alternative Education ALTERNATE (R) Alternate(R) was a program which was established in the mid 1980’s to provide educational programming for youth in foster care. The original classroom was located in the Yew Street Receiving Home. The program moved to Prince George Secondary school in the late 1980’s. This program was designed for students aged 13 to 15 who were not meeting success in mainstream classes due to social/emotional difficulties. Students attended school full time with integration into elective classes if appropriate. Jack Strong-Boag was a long time teacher in this program. In 2002 this program became known as Retrac. INTENSIVE CHILD CARE RESOURCE (ICCR) ICCR was established as a full time inter-ministerial service in 1984. It was designed for students aged 13 to 17 who had exhausted all other resources due to severe behavioural problems. The program was located at Kinsmen Place and focused on social skills, life skills, behaviour management techniques and academic upgrading. Referrals were through Area Support Teams and the Ministry for Children and Families. Larry Martin was an early teacher in this program. He was supported by two youth care workers. GATEWAYS AND YOUTH AROUND PRINCE (YAP) The Gateways School program was established in 1991 as an interagency partnership with the Gateways Lifeskills program. The original classes were held in the basement of a group home. In 1997, this program moved to the Youth Around Prince (YAP) Centre located across from City Hall. YAP is an integrated services model with the Ministry for Children and Families. Students in the YAP school program are youth aged 15 to 18 that are considered highly “at risk” and who have involvement with various community agencies. The goal of the YAP school program is to transition to other alterative community programs offered at the Centre for Learning Alternatives. GO ANYWHERE PROGRAM (GAP) TOGETHER EVERYONE ACHIEVES MORE (TEAM) The Go Anywhere Program (GAP) was created as an inter-ministerial program and was located at CNC. This program provided upgrading and lifeskills to students aged 17 to 24. In 2008, the program was combined with the Alternative Community Education program (ACE) and its name was changed to Together Everyone Achieves More (TEAM). Services are provided for students at the senior high school level who, despite interventions, can no longer be accommodated within the mainstream school system. Students who have already dropped out may also be considered for this program. The intake age range is 16 to 19. The academic focus involves upgrading and some students achieve an Adult Dogwood while others may graduate with a School Completion Certificate. In addition to academics, the TEAM program focuses on work readiness, including interpersonal skills, to ensure success in the workplace. Students participate in the Centre for Learning Alternatives’ valedictory ceremony. These two programs started with one teacher, Lynne Pidhaichuk, and now have two teachers, two youth care workers and one educational assistant who guide up to 60 young adults. Alternative Education ALTERNATIVE SECONDARY PROGRAM (ASP) This interagency program began in 1997 in partnership with the Ministry for Children and Families. It changed from a half-time to a three-quarters time program in 1999. Students worked on grade 10 curriculum and/or academic upgrading. The age range was 16 to 18. RECONNECT, START AND RESTART In collaboration with the Native Friendship Centre, a variety of services and programs were offered. These programs were Reconnect, Restart and Start. Reconnect was situated in the Safe House, which was a location for highly involved street youth. Restart was established in 1991 as a part time program at the Native Friendship Centre. In 1995, a second program, Start, was added. The intent of these programs and services was to meet the students’ social, emotional, academic and cultural needs. Some of the early teachers were Sue MacDonald, Lynne Pidhaichuk, Lisa Horswell, Alaina Parker and Cherie Allen. CONCEPT ED. This program began at the Native Friendship Centre and is currently housed at the Centre for Learning Alternatives. It provides educational programs for up to 60 students aged 15 to 17. There are two teachers, two youth care workers and one educational assistant to support these students. Concept Ed. students move through an academic program aimed at completing a regular graduation program. INTERSECT SCHOOL The Intersect School program began in 1991 as an interagency partnership with the Alcohol and Drug Society. In 1992, it moved to its current location in the Intersect Youth and Family Services building on Third Avenue. The program began with a maximum of 6 students and SD 57 provided a teacher for six hours per week. The original staff members were teacher Kathi Hughes and youth care worker Carol de Gans. The students were Intersect clients who were referred by their therapists. The focus was on assessment, consultation and transition. The Intersect School program has been expanded to provide services for up to 30 youth whose intake age ranges between 13 and 19. This program is for youth who are dealing with mental health issues and who are receiving services from Intersect. In addition to the full time teacher, youth care worker and educational assistant provided by SD 57, an Intersect Mental Health worker provides students with an additional level of support. Alternative Education HART COMMUNITY CONNECTOR The Hart Community Connector was developed in 1998 to serve the needs of young people living the Hart area who were not enrolled in school. Kelly Road Secondary principal, Don Chamberlain, District Alternative Education teacher, Kathi Hughes, and teacher, Gerry Brunello, were instrumental in getting this program off the ground. The Fraternal Order of the Eagles provided free use of their hall every afternoon. SUMMIT In September 2010, a program called Summit was opened. The Hart family of schools saw the need for an alternative program in the Hart area due to the difficulties that students had in accessing programs at the John McInnis Centre. This program is located in the Nechako branch of the Price George Public Library. Operating in partnership with Kelly Road Secondary allows for counselling support and elective classes for some students. The primary goal of this program is to reintegrate students into the mainstream school system. Teacher Alaina Parker takes a leadership role in supporting up to 30 students aged 13 to 16. She is assisted by a youth care worker and an education assistant. CONNECTIONS There was a need to provide a program for younger students whose challenges limited their ability to attend a regular school. The Connections program, located at the Centre for Learning Alternatives, provides educational and behavioural support to 15 elementary and early secondary school students aged 12 to 14. CAMP TRAPPING Camp Trapping was established in 1971 as an open custody wilderness program for young offenders. Bruce Hawkinson, a probation office in Prince George, saw the need for an alternative for young men. Mike Flannagan was the teacher for this program in 1974. The school program continues to service youth aged 13 to 18 who have been mandated by the justice system to undertake the four-month residential program. Students throughout British Columbia attend this provincial program that is located at Trapping Lake, 45 km south of Prince George. The Cariboo Action Training Society operates the facility while the Centre for Learning Alternatives supervises the educational component. In addition to school, the young men work on the site chopping wood and helping with meal preparation. They learn outdoor survival skills that help develop their sense of pride and self-esteem. A highlight is the morning 4 km run followed by a sauna and a dip in the lake. All staff and youth participate in this morning ritual regardless of the temperature or weather conditions. Alternative Education Chopping and stacking wood SD 57 Education Heritage Collection YOUTH CUSTODY CENTRE (YCC) The YCC school program began in 1989 as a provincial inter-ministerial program. It is located in the Youth Custody Centre that is a secure facility for youth (male and female) from throughout the province who are sentenced to a residential facility by the justice system. It is administered by the Centre for Learning Alternatives with three teachers providing the educational component for these young people. HOSPITAL/HOMEBOUND AND UHNBC HOSPITAL SCHOOL PROGRAM Initially, there was one teacher whose role was to support children and teenagers who were in hospital or who were unable to attend school for a period of time due to a severe illness. The teacher would contact the student’s school to access the assignments needed to keep the student up-to-date in his/her studies. These students came from throughout the Northern Health region The program developed to include the students in the Adolescent Psychiatric Assessment Unit (APAU), the Nechako Youth Treatment Centre and the Pediatrics Unit at the University Hospital of Northern B.C. The classroom is located in the Nechako Centre, but the teachers go to the student’s bedside if necessary. The focus is liaising and transitioning to successfully return the student to his home school. THE COMMUNITY TEAM Students in these alternative programs were fortunate to have the support of specialized youth care workers and teachers. Additional services were available through a cohesive Community Team that included a transitioning youth care worker, an aboriginal education worker and a mental health counsellor. Alternative programs and services flourished under the leadership of Dr. Carl Anserello, Director of Special Education for SD 57. Alternative Education Did You Know? A collection of students’ work entitled “Collected and Bound” was published annually in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. The 1993 edition was dedicated to the memory of Judi Dunnett, a Kelly Road Secondary teacher. S T T T U T A torefront’s home for many years, the former Aurora school, was built by volunteers in the old barn-raising style. he Youth Custody Centre had 7 teachers and a vice principal in 2001. he District Alternative Education Advisory Committee consisted of 10 teachers and administrators in 2001. here were 19 PEP teachers, 17 Alternate Education teachers and 8 youth care workers in 11 secondary and junior secondary schools in 2001. sually between 50 and 70 students participate in the Centre for Learning Alternatives’ graduation ceremony held in June at CNC. here were 918 students registered in school based and community alternative education programs in 1992-1993. pproximately 30-40% of TAPS students go to CNC or another post-secondary institution immediately after graduation with another 25-30% enrolling within 5 years. Special thanks goes to Kathi Hughes for her leadership role in developing the alternative education services in SD 57. In her role as District Advisor for Alternative Education, she was instrumental in developing the Junior Alternate Education Resource Guide (1998) and the P.E.P. Resource Guide (1999). These documents included excellent material for teachers and other staff to use in their classrooms. Ms. Hughes also worked with the District Alternate Education Advisory Committee, the Alternate Education Local Specialist Association and the B. C. Alternate Education Association to develop programs in School District #57 and throughout the province. Kathi Hughes and students on Jasper bike trip SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Alternative Education Special events were a highlight for staff and students. Meals at Storefront SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Softball tournament SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Purden ski trip 1989 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Mini volleyball at K.R.S.S. 1990 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Camping at Ste. Marie Lake 1981 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The District Resource Centre MISSION STATEMENT The mission of the District Resource Centre (DRC) and its staff is to provide students and administration with cost effective, equitable district-wide access to learning resources and services through evaluating, acquiring, managing and promoting these resources. (25/09/01) D RC a t D u ch e s s P a rk An n e x 1 970 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection ORIGINS OF THE DISTRICT RESOURCE CENTRE A central library originated in the 1960’s to supply rural schools with books and supplementary readers. Jean Darroch, the “rural librarian”, in 1964 wrote a report on the need for resources beyond the classroom and a proposed system for district libraries. By April 1967, a Central Library under the direction of Elizabeth Sproxton, a district clerical, was experimenting with centralized purchasing and processing for five rural schools. At the same time, the Ministry had begun to supply a Library Development Fund to districts. Meanwhile, the teacherlibrarians in the schools were lobbying for a district coordinator. Florence Willson was hired in 1970 as a District Coordinator of Library Services to formulate district library policy and make recommendations concerning school libraries, librarians and a district resource centre. District Resource Centre In 1971, Marj Niehaus was hired as the District Resource Centre Librarian. The old Central Library was reorganized and new services and collections were established to provide more support to classrooms and school libraries. A Handbook for Librarians was published each year. DRC LIBRARIANS 1971 - Present M a rj Niehaus , DRC Lib ra ria n ,1 971 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Historical Highlights 1967 Central Library annex established 1970 Coordinator of Library Services appointed 1971 District Resource Centre established and DRC Librarian appointed 1982 DRC moved to Central Administration complex 1989 Automation of DRC collections 1999 School Library collections automated 2004 DRC moved to Gladstone Elementary Marj Niehaus Yvonne Nelson Anne Rowe Stephanie Chan Barb Hall Carrie Yuen-Lo District Resource Centre Centralized Collections professional journals/indexes videos professional books 16mm film curriculum guides filmstrips supplementary readers multi-media kits novel sets science kits preview materials realia specialized AV equipment models art prints band music publishers displays BCTF lesson aids study prints slides rotating rural book collection big books Over the years, many types of resources and collections were centralized in the DRC. The DRC continued to expand during the 1970’s as the district population almost doubled overnight. New schools were springing up in every neighbourhood with the building of pulp mills and sawmills in the community. By 1981, the DRC had outgrown its premises and moved to the Central Administration complex on Ninth Avenue. The old school gym became the technical department and the front area the circulation and curriculum resources. The Professional Collection, which had been separated in the late 70’s, once again became integrated into the new DRC surroundings. This collection had been housed in an administrative annex on Sixth Avenue with other curricular resources and personnel. A Professional and Curriculum Librarian, Anne Rowe, had been appointed in the 1977 and a Technical Services Librarian was hired in the early 80’s. Yvonne Nelson became the Coordinator of Library Services in the curriculum department in 1977 and Florence Willson became a Director of Education. D RC C e n tr al A dm i n i st ra t i o n B u i l di n g , i n cl u di n g g ym , 198 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection District Resource Centre Ret ros pect ive Conve rsio n Ma rj Ni e h a us & Ca rri e Y ue n -L o 1 992 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection School districts across the province struggled with budgets during the mid 1990’s as enrollments declined and government purse strings tightened. Budget reductions resulted in district service reductions and the DRC was downsized. The Professional Collection was transferred to the new university at UNBC and the Professional and Curriculum Librarian position eliminated. A large district curriculum department was reduced to one Director of School Services. During the 1995-1996 budget deliberations, a complete review of DRC services was recommended. After much discussion over several budgets and further reductions in staff, the board suggested the closure of the DRC in 2000. A public meeting was held in protest and the decision was reversed. The DRC was moved into smaller quarters at Gladstone Elementary in 2004 when the Central Administration moved to the Telus building on Ferry Avenue. In 2010, the DRC was moved to the John McInnis Centre. Co m p u t e r T e rm i n al s a t G la ds to n e 200 8 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection District Resource Centre D ist ric t Resour ce Cent re at G l ads t one 20 09 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection District Resources Services 2008 Online catalogue to all district resources including the historical collection Online acquisitions of library resources and textbooks Cataloging and processing of library and textbook materials Circulation of collections with delivery system School library system support and training Access to online educational journals and research databases Laminating Ministry learning resources fund distribution and management Di s tr i ct R e s o u rc e C e n t re St a f f 200 8 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection ADAPTED FROM: Schools, The Way They Were: The DRC The Way It Was by Marj Niehaus and Anne Rowe, PGRTA Members, 2007 Where Did the Rural Teacher Live? WHAT WAS A TEACHERAGE? Typically, it was a small residence on or beside the school grounds where one or more of the teachers lived. A few teacherages were mobile homes. Tea cher ag e a t D unst er Scho ol 2 001 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Teacherages SITES Bear Lake Buckhorn Croydon North Dome Creek Dunster Giscome Hixon Isle Pierre McLeod Lake Mud River Nukko Lake Penny Red Rock Reid Lake St. Mary’s Lake Shelley Sinclair Mills Stone Creek Tete Jaune Upper Fraser SD 57 (Prince George) Statement of Assets, 1975 The house was owned and maintained by the school district which charged nominal rent while providing all basic furnishings and utilities. In exchange the school district was able to staff its rural schools in communities where other accommodation was usually not available; as a side benefit, the employer got an on-site watchman which tended to discourage vandalism and otherwise provide a visible school district presence in the community. Most teacherages consisted of one or two bedrooms, a kitchen and living room. By the late 1960’s, many had indoor plumbing and central heating. Before that outdoor toilets and a pump for water, along with a wood shed for a winter’s supply of fuel, were commonplace. Rural Teacherages Teacherages were a mainstay of another era. They are fondly remembered in all their rusticity. Teachers who lived in them take pride in the self-sufficiency they developed in those settings, remember fondly the problems they faced and overcame, hold dear the lifetime of acquaintances they made and became better teachers and better people for their teacherage and rural school experience. WHAT WERE THE ADVANTAGES OF LIVING IN A TEACHERAGE? It was only a few steps to school so there was no commuting necessary with all of its hassles - start a cold car, shovel the driveway, fight traffic. If you forgot something at home you could wander over and get it at any time...or send a student. T eac hera ge at Dom e C reek 200 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection You could stroll home for lunch while still keeping an eye on the children in the playground. Teac her ag e at U pper Fra ser 198 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Rural Teacherages NO SUPPORT FOR TEACHER WHO QUIT ...A teacher who accepted a positon at Hart Lake one-room school at the opening of the fall school term refused to accept the position after visiting the school, claiming the situation had been “grossly misrepresented.” President of the local Teachers’ Association, Mr. Eldred, said he and two other teachers visited the school teacherage which had come under strong criticism from the new arrival and found the situation very good for a rural school in the northern area. He said both the school and the teacherage were well equiped, all propane fixtures were in working condition and the place was generally clean. A fuel storage shed was located close to the teacherage and school, he said, and ample wash tubs for laundry purposes were stored in the storage shed. The kitchen of the teacherage contained a modern sink and hand pump for water and a propane cooking range and kitchen utilities such as dishes, pots, and pans were in evidence... September 28, 1960 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen T ab or Lake T eac hera ge 1950 BC Archives Collections Rural Teacherages Memories  Teacherage Life The disadvantage of living in a teacherage was that I never had any privacy. Everyone knew when I was home, when I was not home, who was visiting me and who wasn’t. My parents and other family members from Vancouver would telephone at 9PM on Sunday nights and everyone in the community knew it because they were all on the same party line. As more people picked up, the reception would fade. It became quite a joke. During mosquito season (late May, early June), I had to set my alarm for every two hours all night long. I would get up and kill as many mosquitoes as I could and then try to get back to sleep. Two hours later I would get up and do it again. A teacher in one of the other teacherages asked me to look into a problem she was having. She had cleaned her oven and now as she was preparing supper, there was this awful smell. I went over to check and discovered the cause - she had cleaned the oven but then had lined the inside with Mac Tac, a yellow and green daisy pattern! One night after a large snowfall, we were sitting in the teacherage when suddenly the whole building started to shake. Fearing an earthquake, we grabbed the children who had been asleep and rushed outside. It turned out that the noise was caused by the buildup of snow sliding off the tin roof. Rural Teacherages I was out for my daily run when not far from the teacherage, a deer jumped out of the bush startling me and for a time we ran parallel to each other. One evening my husband was sitting by the big living room window reading the newspaper when he felt someone reading over his shoulder. Turning around he was nose-to-nose with a big black bear. My enduring memory of teacherage living was the simplicity of life and being an integral part of a rural community in and out of school. The following former teacherage denizens kindly contributed their recollections for this account: Denise Goodkey Ray & Maureen Griffin Art & Denise Webb Mike Brennan Donna Dojack Joyce & Bruce Wiebe Sandra Stewart Allan Douglas Jenny & John Hetherington Hazel & John Stevens ADAPTED FROM: Hart Lake & Bear Lake Bear Lake Upper Fraser Dome Creek Dunster Dunster McLeod Lake Sinclair Mills McLeod Lake Reid Lake Teacherage Life by John Stevens, PGRTA Member, 2004 The Prince George Dormitory 1947-1977 6th Avenue & Alward Street, Prince George Home away fr om Home MISSION STATEMENT “It is the purpose and aim of this School District to provide Board and Lodging for Secondary School students at as low a cost as possible when the student is obliged to live away from home in order to attend Secondary School”. Rules and Regulations, Prince George High School Dormitory Handbook, 1964 FOUNDERS OF THE DREAM Harold Stafford Inspector of Schools Ray Williston Principal of PGHS Harold Moffat School Trustee Bob Gracey Secretary-Treasurer F ro n t V i e w o f D o r m it o r y 1 9 5 1 BC Archives Collections The Prince George Dormitory PUPILS AND TEACHERS NOW SLEEP WHERE SOLDIERS RESTED FROM DRILL The Prince George Citizen Headline, September 4, 1947 ORIGINS OF THE PRINCE GEORGE DORMITORY In 1947, School District No. 57 (Prince George) used some creative bookkeeping to purchase army barracks from the exhibition fairgrounds. Three buildings were skidded into town, in five sections, to a piece of land located at Sixth Avenue and Alward Street. The main buildings were about 20 x 70 feet and were sited parallel to one another. They were then connected by the two remaining sections to form a three-legged H. The east wing for the boys and the west wing for the girls were identical. Ray Williston sent the shop teacher and some students to the barracks to disconnect and salvage the plumbing units and other usable equipment. The original plans stipulated two students to a room, but when the dorm was about to open in September, twice as many as the anticipated number of students registered, making it necessary to put four to a room. That year there were 39 students, most of whom had been taking correspondence courses. It was the first dormitory in the province operated by a public school board and opened before the official Dormitories Act. Line Up for Dinne r M r s. Y o s t, M at r o n 195 1 STAFF BC Archives Collections Matrons Assistants Cooks/Housekeepers Mrs. Evelyn Yost, 1947-1955 Mrs. E. Groom, 1955-1961 Mrs. J. Hawkins, 1961 Miss Mannering, 1961-1962 Mrs. Ada Duthie, Sr., 1962-1963 Mrs. Nellie Duthie, Jr., 1964-1977 Mr. Houghtaling Mrs. C. Hearn Sadie Smith Mrs. M. Campbell Mrs. Flo LaFontane Myrtle Bale Olga Toporowski Mrs. T. Jensen Mr. I. Munroe Mrs. Bleakly Mrs. Coleson Mrs. Eble Mrs. H Shaw The Prince George Dormitory DISTRICT MAINTENANCE FLOOR PLAN May 6, 1966 The floor plan below shows the addition of a recreation room to the main building. More sleeping quarters were added in other attached buildings at the back of the main building and, by 1951, the dorms accommodated 65 students. SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The Prince George Dormitory FORMER STUDENTS Bob Harkins Agnes Holeczi Norman Monroe Ruth Flynn Nora Jean Garland Jean May Gary Graf Gary Wildfong Dor mi t or y R es i dent s & St aff 1 954 The Exploration Place 2004.2.466 DAILY LIFE IN THE DORM Dormitory Hours 7:00 a.m. 7:30 a.m. 12:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. 9:00 p.m. 10:15 p.m. Arise Breakfast Dinner Supper Study Period Night Lunch Lights out DUTIES “Beds will be made neatly each morning. Rooms will be kept neat and tidy. Corridors and washrooms will be cleaned by pupil detail each day. Kitchen help will be performed as required. This will include setting tables, doing dishes, preparing vegetables, etc. Groups will be organized to work on the grounds and buildings as required”. Rules and Regulations, Prince George High School Dormitory Handbook, 1964 The Prince George Dormitory Do rm i t o ry K i tc h e n & L a u n dr y Du t y 1 951 BC Archives Collections The Prince George Dormitory RULES OF CONDUCT “Residents of the Dormitory are expected to behave at all times in a manner which exemplifies mature respect and consideration for other students, Dormitory Matron and Staff as well as for the citizens of the community. The Matron shall judge the conduct of students and may exercise disciplinary action as necessary. The Matron may send students home forthwith for any breach of rules and reinstatement will be arranged only through the District Superintendent and the Dormitory Committee.” Rules and Regulations, Prince George High School Dormitory Handbook, 1964 The Prince George Dormitory STUDY TIME Regular study periods, which were an important feature of dorm life in the evening hours, were claimed to be the reason for the high academic standing of “dorm kids”. BC Archives Collections The Prince George Dormitory The concept of the dormitory, as conceived by Harold Stafford, was to give rural youth from the local school district a chance to get a higher education and have a choice whether they became a “farm laborer” or someone on the “green chain” in a sawmill. Over the years, 2500 students stayed in the Dormitory in Prince George. They came from many rural communities surrounding Prince George such as: Sinclair Mills, Penny, Burns Lake, Isle Pierre, Queen Charlotte Islands, Hansard, Giscome, Ootsa Lake, Summit Lake, Woodpecker, Hixon, Stone Creek, Willow River, McBride and Quesnel. D orm it ory A pplic at ion 1 947 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection The Prince George Dormitory Staying in the dormitory was both an educational and social experience. Living away from home, sharing a room with one or two other students, studying and doing chores together, eating together in a large mess hall, and organizing and participating in various dorm socials, forced all residents to respect and appreciate each other as individuals. Friendships were established that often lasted a lifetime. These bonds and these experiences significantly shaped lives. The following memories were contributed by former dorm residents. Memories  Former Students I remember the dorm staff…professional…people for whom I had great respect and a little fear. …the dreaded kitchen duties….scrubbing floors, peeling potatoes, doing dishes and the great debates as to whose turn it was to do what! Some of my lifelong friendships started at the old dormitory. Those were good times…sure we had our disagreements and at times we thought the rules were too strict, but my memories are of good friends, fun times, and the benefits of living away from home. …respectful arguments, kitchen duty, good times, good friendships, chasing each other down the long hallways, sneaking into other people’s rooms, and 4-post hill entertainment where student/student conflicts were resolved just off the school grounds! I recall the Saturday night when grade 13 students decided to give the matron a message. They were concerned that as mature young adults they deserved greater privacy than they were getting. The matron, in her evening rounds would knock on the door, then open the door immediately and make a quick check to ensure that everyone was in and accounted for. The four boys decided that they would all strip naked and lie on top of their covers….the message intended that the matron couldn’t just knock, then enter. So, there we were ….stark…naked…giggling nervously as we awaited the knock….three raps and the door swung, and the matron said: ‘Boys!!! My Goodness!!!’ The message worked. The next week as rounds were made, the knock seemed more gentle, and the voice asking if everyone was in, came before the door was opened. No matter where life has taken us, the experience that happened most is the one that happened during our growing up and impressionable years. Whether we loved or hated the dormitory life, it shaped us and made us the persons we are today and will be for the rest of our lives. The Prince George Dormitory Dor mi t or y St udent s & St aff 1 972 The Exploration Place N993.11.17701.1 OLD DORMITORIES DEMOLISHED MEMORIES COME TUMBLING DOWN The Prince George Citizen Headline, August 6, 1987 IN THE END... New schools and extensive bussing eliminated the demand for a dormitory and in 1977 the doors were closed. Ten years later, the buildings were demolished to make way for the construction of a senior citizens’ complex called Alward Place, which is still a Northern Health assisted living apartment complex today. ADAPTED FROM: School District No. 57 (Prince George) Dormitory by Norm Monroe, PGRTA Member, 2004 The Birth of a Dorm by Agnes Holeczi, UNBC Paper, 1990ʼs Prince George Teachers’ Curling League P ri n c e G e o r ge Go lf & C u rl i n g Cl u b 201 1 Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher HISTORY In the early 1960’s, the Prince George Teachers’ Curling League was formed. The founders of the league were Jack Hotell and Mac McCallum. For many years, Jack had coached the Prince George High School Curling Team and he was the organizer of the Northern High School Curling Championship. Mac was a teacher at Duchess Park who loved to curl and he organized an annual Staff Bonspiel for the school. Mac was encouraged by other teachers to set up a curling league in which all interested teachers in School District No. 57 could participate. Teachers formed teams from within their staffs or with teachers from other schools. For a number of years, teachers gathered during the curling season on Friday at 4:30 p.m. to enjoy the game and to socialize afterwards. At the end of each curling season, the League Champions were declared. There also was a season-ending bonspiel that Mac McCallum and the executive of the Teachers’ Curling League organized. Schools from School District 57 entered teams. The Prince George Teachers’ Curling League continued until 2002. In 2001, there were only a few teams registered and so retired teachers were asked to join. However, the league folded the next year due to lack of participation. Prince George Teachers’ Curling League NORT H E R N I N T E R I O R T E A CH E R S ’ B O N S P I E L One year, four avid curlers, Rob Watson, Art Erasmus, Mac McCallum and Ed Swaren decided to organize the Northern Teachers’ Bonspiel. All schools in the North Central District were notified and a successful event took place. Teams from Kitimat, Prince Rupert, Vanderhoof, Fort St. John, Dawson Creek, Williams Lake and Quesnel entered this inaugural event. For the second year of this bonspiel, Rob Watson sent notices to each B.C. school district and, along with the previously mentioned communities, an entry was also received from Chilliwack. Many local businesses contributed prizes for the annual event. Nor thern I nterio r Bons piel 198 5 Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher Bonspiel P riz e 198 2 Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher Prince George Teachers’ Curling League In 1968, Henry and Barb Vogt were asked to find a championship trophy for the Northern Teachers’ Bonspiel. They ordered one from Edmonton and, when assembled, it was an impressive three feet tall. This trophy, named the McCallum Trophy, was presented to the team who won the “A” event at the bonspiel each year. Winning Skips K. Tweit 1968 Ed Swaren 1969 D. Ableson 1970 Terry Craig 1971 & 1972 Terry Ryan 1973 Hank Bugara 1974 Elaine Glazier 1975 L. Santano 1976 B. Kineshanko 1977 B. Anderson 1978 Danny Morris 1979, 1980 & 1982 E. Strasdin 1981 L. Marr 1983 Gerry Miller 1984 Linda Murray 1985 Diane Dalio 1986 The trophy was misplaced for several years and was rediscovered in the basement of Beaverly Elementary School. It is now part of the SD 57 Education Heritage Collection. No rt h e r n I n te ri o r Te ac h e rs ’ B o n s p i e l “A” Eve n t Tr o p h y 201 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection BCTF BONSPIEL After a successful second Northern Teachers’ Bonspiel, the idea for a B.C. provincial teachers’ curling bonspiel was conceived. Rob Watson convinced the BCTF to organize this provincial bonspiel in Vancouver and it was held during Spring Break. The Prince George team of Ed Swaren, Rob Watson, Lois Withers and Colleen Kelly won the C Event in the inaugural year. The provincial bonspiel was held for 3 or 4 years and then the BCTF decided to focus solely on an Annual General Meeting at Spring Break. Prince George Teachers’ Curling League ABLESON QUARTET CHAMPION ICE LESSONS FROM TEACHERS George area curlers to championships in all three events in the B.C. Interior Teachers’ Bonspiel during the weekend. Forty rinks, including visitors from Kamloops, Williams Lake and Dawson Creek, took part in the two-day mixed bonspiel. Ableson and rinkmates Glen Horning, Sylvia Ableson and Delores Roth won in the A event final over the Hank Bugara rink. Jack Blair won B event over Rob Watson and Stu Fraleigh took C event over Charlie Evans. The losers in the three finals were also from Prince George area. George won the A event at the sixth annual Northern Interior teachers’ bonspiel during the weekend. Teams from Williams Lake, Wells, Dawson Creek and the city took part in the 58-rink event at the Prince George Curling Club. Prince George teachers took most of the $900 in prize money, with Williams Lake foursomes getting their share. Second in the A event was the Brian Fishwick rink of the city. The Harvey Glanville foursome of Williams Lake was third, while Bryan Kineshanko of Prince George was fourth. Winner of the A event’s consolation round was John Lord of the lake town. The Dick Crosby rink of Williams Lake took first place in the B event, with Dave Hanning of Prince George second. Henry Bugara of the city was third and Robin Dawson of Williams Lake was fourth. Bert Webb of Prince George took the C event and was flanked with three other local teachers’ rinks. Bill Fisher was second, John Best was third and Charley Evans fourth. The Denny Ableson rink led Prince February 16, 1970 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen The Terry Ryan rink of Prince February 28, 1973 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen Prince George Teachers’ Curling League Memories I had a first time curler join my team. She asked me what equipment she would need and I told her to get curling shoes, curling gloves and a curling broom. I asked her if she was a left or right-handed sweeper. She replied that she was right-handed so I advised her to go to Northern Hardware and ask them for a right-handed broom. When she made her request to a clerk there was roar of laughter in the store. She realized that she had been tricked, bought a broom and sheepishly left the store. George Petrescu 2005, former principal of Harwin Elementary When we curled with George Petrescu, we remember a Friday when we did not feel like sweeping rocks. The two of us, plus Rita (Olsen) Kadar, were talking about our plans for the weekend and totally ignored George’s command to SWEEP! At that point, we thought that our team was so far ahead in the score that winning was a given. George was not impressed but our team did win. Betty Fishwick and Rose Panych 2005, retired teachers I remember a game when George was throwing his final rock and, as it quickly came down the ice, I stumbled and fell in front of it. As I was rolling out of the way, George’s voice boomed out, “Clear the way, clear the way for the rock”. The rock whizzed by me into the house and George hollered “YES” as it hit its mark and our team had another victory. Rose Panych 2005, retired teacher I remember curling our first game in the Teachers’ Bonspiel at 4:00 p.m. on Friday. We lost and then immediately played again and lost, then again and lost, and again and lost. We were out of the bonspiel by 2:00 a.m. on Saturday. That was the quickest exit from a bonspiel that I ever experienced. Barb Vogt 2005, retired teacher Cu r li n g S h e e t s at P ri n c e G e o r ge Ri n k 201 1 Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher Prince George Teachers’ Curling League I curled as a spare in the league after I retired. One week in 2002 I agreed to spare for a team and then got another call from a skip and said “yes” again. I had forgotten that I was already committed. When I arrived to curl, I realized my mistake and made a decision to curl with the second team that had asked me. When I got on the ice, I discovered that the two teams that I had agreed to spare for were playing each other for the League Championship. I was very embarrassed but went ahead and curled and the team I was on won the game. The skip of the other team, who was a friend, was not too happy with me for awhile. Henry Vogt 2005, retired teacher and founding member of the league In 1975, I was in my first year of teaching and joined Elaine Glazier’s rink. During the bonspiel, my husband, Rick, was sitting in the bleachers watching us in the “A” final and listening to the comments being made by the spectators about our team. They kept referring to us as “gals” and wondering where we had come from. Well, we won the “A” event and I picked out a camping cooler as my prize. However, being new teachers, my husband and I did not have enough money to pay for the banquet and had to borrow from a team member. It was then we decided to apply for a Visa Card! Mary Hawksley 2005, retired teacher C url i ng Fi gu re on Nort her n I nterior Bons piel Tr ophy 201 1 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection In the late 1970’s and early 1980’s, Dawson Creek teachers hosted a curling bonspiel, in either late February or early March, that a busload of Prince George teachers would attend. The bus would leave around 4:30pm on Friday. The goal was to make it to Dawson Creek in time for everyone to settle into their accommodation and then play in the midnight draw. During this draw the Prince George teams usually played each other as most had a similar mind-set at that point. Considerable “fun” was had en route as well as singing, games, etc. The more serious curlers usually skipped the bus trip and drove up on their own in order to remain focused on their game. Kris Nellis 2011, retired teacher Prince George Teachers’ Curling League One particularly memorable bus trip to Dawson Creek occurred in the early 1980’s. In the middle of the Pine Pass, about an hour south of Chetwynd, the bus driver pulled over to allow a passenger to disembark who needed “fresh air”. While stopped, Lorne B., unbeknownst to anyone, decided to go out and search the luggage compartment for some 8-track tapes that he wanted the bus driver to play. He had to crawl into the compartment to retrieve them and he had just climbed back out, tapes in hand, and shut the door when the bus took off. He threw his beverage at the bus, later regretting that he didn’t throw the tapes, trying to attract someone’s attention. The bus disappeared around the corner. He stuck out his thumb and hoped someone would stop. He realized he looked somewhat out of place in his shirt sleeves, at –11C, and only carrying a bunch of 8-track tapes. Finally someone stopped and picked him up. Unfortunately, the person was turning off the highway at Chetwynd so Lorne got out at the Chetwynd Hotel and went in to call ahead to the motel in Dawson Creek. He then realized he did not have his wallet so had to beg 25 cents from someone so he could use the pay phone. He left a message as to his predicament and hoped someone would come back and get him. It was just too cold to continue hitchhiking. Around Progress, two hours after Lorne was abandoned, his girlfriend started looking for him and discovered he was missing. A bit of a panic ensued and there was considerable relief when, a half hour later, the bus arrived at the motel and the message from Lorne was delivered. My husband Phil’s dad, who we were staying with, offered his truck to Lorne’s remaining team members. In the meantime, the bus driver did graciously volunteer to fill in Bons piel Ribbon 197 7 for Lorne in the midnight draw! They declined his offer, forCourtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher feited their game at midnight and headed back to Chetwynd to retrieve Lorne. During a break between our games, Phil and I went shopping for a personalized T-shirt to present to Lorne during the awards dinner. On the front it read “If lost, please return to the Dawson Creek bonspiel” and on the back it said “Lost and For Lorne”. Once back in Prince George, this story spread quickly and has been told and retold through the years, including at his wedding (yes, he and his girlfriend did still marry). Kris Nellis 2011, retired teacher Da wson Cr eek Tea cher s’ Bon s p i e l Ma rc h 198 0 Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher Prince George Teachers’ Curling League The Prince George Citizen had a column “IN CURLING” in the mid 1970’s. This column reported on bonspiels and other curling events at the Prince George Golf and Curling Club. The Northern Interior Teachers’ Bonspiels were reported on in this column. The eighth annual northern inte- Hank Bugara’s local rink won the A event at the Prince George teachers’ bonspiel at the Prince George Golf and Curling Club during the weekend. Bugara took the top prize at the three-day event after being down 10-3 to John Lord of Williams Lake in the final. The Prince George rink came back for a 12-10 victory. Dick Crosby of Williams Lake repeated as the B event winner. Crosby got by Prince George’s Dennis Araki. Henry Vogt of the city won the C event, beating another local rink skipped by George Petrescu. The consolation event was captured by Mark Shirreff of Prince George. He stopped Harry Glanville of Williams Lake. A total of 72 rinks competed in the annual affair. There were 12 from out of town. March 11, 1974 P rinc e G eorg e Tea cher s 198 1-1 982 Leag ue C ham ps Courtesy of Kris Nellis, retired teacher rior teachers’ bonspiel starts Friday at the Prince George Golf and Curling Club. The “spiel” starts at 4:30 p.m. with semi-finals and finals on Sunday starting at 9 a.m. There are 63 rinks from Prince George entered, 10 from Williams Lake, four from Kamloops, two each from Mackenzie and Quesnel and one each from Fort Fraser, Granisle and Terrace. March 13, 1975 School District No. 57 (Prince George) 2100 Ferry Avenue, Prince George (250) 561-6800 www.sd57.bc.ca Boa rd Offic e 201 0 SD 57 Maintenance Department The present boundaries of School District No. 57 are similar to the Fraser Fort George Regional District. The schools listed here were located within these boundaries. School District No. 57 (Prince George) SUPERINTENDENTS OF SCHOOLS Prior to 1946, Superintendents of Education were appointed provincial positions in Victoria. The Superintendent was the chief administrative officer of the Department of Education and was sometimes referred to as the Deputy Minister of Education. Several “Inspectors of Schools” visited the public schools throughout the province and made progress reports to the Superintendent at the end of each school year. An excerpt from the first High School Inspector’s report mentioning Prince George appears below: P ubl i c Scho ols R eport 1 918 Jo hn B. DeLong , Ins pect or of Sc hool s School District No. 57 (Prince George) In 1946, 74 large administrative districts were created in the province. One of these districts was School District No. 57 (Prince George) and another was School District No. 58 (McBride). Inspectors of Schools were appointed by the Ministry to each large district. At first, the Inspector of Schools that was based in Prince George was responsible for Districts 28 (Quesnel), 56 (Vanderhoof), 57 (Prince George) and 58 (McBride). In 1970, McBride School District was incorporated into the Prince George School District. In later years, the Inspector position became the District Superintendent of Schools. In the mid 1960’s, the Superintendent of School District No. 57 (Prince George) was no longer appointed by the Ministry but hired by the local Board of School Trustees. Under the current School Act, the Superintendent of Schools, under the direction of the board, has general supervision and direction over the educational staff employed by the board and is responsible for the general organization, administration, supervision and evaluation of all educational programs and the operation of schools in the district. PRINCE GEORGE SUPERINTENDENTS 1940’S TO PRESENT C. J. Frederickson Harold S. Stafford Roy L.B. Stibbs W.H. Grant F. Orme Ray Williston A.D. Jones Gordon E. Johnson J.E. Beech Ken Alexander J. Phillipsen Dave P. Todd Carl Daneliuk Alvin Myhre Jim Imrich Phil Redmond Dick Chambers Brian Pepper Marilyn Marquis-Forster Anita Richardson Cindy Heitman R ay Wil lis t on 195 0 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Br ian P epper 201 0 SD 57 School Operations Department School District No. 57 (Prince George) School District No. 57 (Prince George) expanded rapidly during the 1970’s and the duties of the Superintendent became onerous. In January 1981, The Board of School Trustees appointed Assistant Superintendents to supervise the schools, carry out the operations of the district and perform other duties assigned by the Superintendent (School Act). ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENTS 1981 - 2010 Art Erasmus Hank Bugara John Stevens Jim Imrich Wendy Herbert Bill Mains Bendina Miller Kerry Firth Norm Monroe Tony Sweet Brian Pepper Rob Little Bruce Ballantye Sharon Cairns John McLay Nevio Rossi Cindy Heitman Lee Karpenko Kap Manhas Hank Bug ar a 1 993 Administrative Poster Sha ron C air ns 2 009 Administrative Poster School District No. 57 (Prince George) BOARD OF SCHOOL TRUSTEES 1915 – 2010 Prior to the Cameron Report in 1946, each school or group of schools in a community had its own elected School Trustees. The Trustees were responsible for the building, equipment and long-term maintenance of schools as well as providing housing for teachers. Local annual school taxes or levies provided the majority of the financing. Additional funds were raised through local referenda. The Department of Education in Victoria provided a small stipend for teachers’ salaries and daily maintenance. The early School Trustees listed here were responsible for the Prince George communities of Central Fort George, Prince George and South Fort George. All rural one-room schools had their own elected group of Trustees. The number of members on each Board varied from 3 to 5 in the early years. Trustees had to be residents of the area, British subjects and able to vote in order to run for election. Several early trustees such as Hiram Carney, A. M. Patterson, J. H. Johnston, Jack Nicholson and Harold Moffat went on to become mayors of the city of Prince George. 1915 1916 Hiram A. Carney Charles Leathley Peter E. Wilson (c) Hiram A. Carney Jack C. Hardy Peter E. Wilson (c) 1917 1918 Jack C. Hardy F.W. Hood Peter E. Wilson (c) Hannah Director F.W. Hood Peter E. Wilson 1919 1920 Jack H. Johnson Peter E. Wilson Alex Wimbles Jack H. Johnson Jack G. Quinn Peter E. Wilson Hir am A . Ca rney Fir st Sc hool Trus tee 19 15-1 916 City of Prince George website 2011 The chairperson has been indicated by a (c) when information was available. School District No. 57 (Prince George) 1921 1922 1923 Julia E.F. Abbott Jack G. Quinn Peter E. Wilson Julia E.F. Abbott Alex B. Moffat William J. Pitman John Gaul Alex B. Moffat William J. Pitman Fred C. Saunders Peter E. Wilson 1924 1925 1926 Netannis Ewert John Gaul William J. Pitman Fred Saunders Peter E. Wilson Netannis Ewert Luella Martin William J. Pitman George S. Porter Jack G. Quinn Allan McMillan Catherine Minacker George S. Porter Jack G. Quinn Alex Wimbles (c) 1927 1928 1929 Jack B. Lambert (c) Catherine Minacker Jack G. Quinn Fred Saunders Alex Wimbles Jack B. Lambert William J. Pitman Jack G. Quinn Fred Saunders (c) Alex Wimbles William Bexon Jack B. Lambert William J. Pitman Fred Saunders Alex Wimbles 1930 1931 William Bexon Walter H. Crocker Jack B. Lambert William J. Pitman Fred C. Saunders (c) Julia E.F. Abbott Walter H. Crocker Roland A. Harlow William J. Pitman Fred C. Saunders (c) 1932 1933 Julia E. F. Abbott Martin S. Caine Roland A. Harlow William J. Pitman (c) Julia E. F. Abbott Martin S. Caine (c) Edward Opie Alex M. Patterson William J. Pitman A.M . P atters on Sc h o o l T ru s te e 193 3-19 44 Sc hool Boar d C hair & M ay or City of Prince George website 2011 School District No. 57 (Prince George) The Prince George Citizen January 9, 1923 The Prince George Citizen January 9, 1923 The Prince George Citizen January 9, 1923 Early advertising in the local newspaper by potential candidates for the School Trustee election. School District No. 57 (Prince George) 1934 1935 Julia E. F. Abbott William L. Armstrong William R. Munroe Edward Opie (c) Alex M. Patterson William L. Armstrong Joshua N. Keller William R. Munroe (c) Edward Opie Alex M. Patterson 1936 1937 Frank Clark Dr. H. Jack Hocking Joshua N. Keller (c) William R. Munroe Alex M. Patterson Frank Clark Dr. H. Jack Hocking (c) Joshua N. Keller William R. Munroe Alex M. Patterson 1938 J ac k N ichol son S chool Tru st ee 1 942 -47, 19 51- 56 City of Prince George website 2011 Frank Clark (c) Dr. H. Jack Hocking Joshua N. Keller William R. Munroe Alex M. Patterson 1939 William L. Armstrong Frank Clark (c) Dr. H. Jack Hocking William R. Munroe Alex M. Patterson 1940 1941 1942 William A. Armstrong (c) Frank Clark Tom McKinnon Alex M. Patterson Jack Roberts Catherine Aitken Ethel Boyle Frank Clark (c) Jessie S. Munroe Alex M. Patterson Catherine Aitken Ethel Boyle Jessie S. Munroe Jack H. Nicholson (c) Alex M. Patterson 1943 1944 1945 Catherine Aitken Elia S. Caine Harold A. Moffat Jack H. Nicholson (c) Alex M. Patterson Catherine Aitken Elia S. Caine Harold F. Moffat Jack N. Nicholson (c) Alex M. Patterson Catherine Aitken Harold A. Moffat (c) Jack H. Nicholson William Rees Lars Strom School District No. 57 (Prince George) After the Cameron Report, in 1946, 74 large school districts were created in the province. One of these school districts was School District No. 57 (Prince George). An interim board of seven members was formed in 1946 to govern and represent the rural areas of the new amalgamated district. The first elected board of the amalgamated district met in 1947. There were several attempts between the late 1940’s and the 1970’s to provide representation on the School Board by geographic area as the school district continued to widen into rural areas. As the district grew larger, the number of trustees increased to seven. Trustees in recent times have been elected at large. They must be Canadian citizens, reside in British Columbia for six months, be eligible to vote and not be an employee of the board. 1946 1947 1948 William Buxton (Woodpecker) C. William Buxton Helen McLean (Shelley) Helen McLean Harold A. Moffat Harold A. Moffat Jack H. Nicholson Jack H. Nicholson John Nilson John Nilson (South Fort) William Rees William Rees Gordon E. Styles Gordon E. Styles Robert R. Anderson C. William Buxton Harold A. Moffat John Nilson Gordon E. Styles William Rees Gordon E. Styles 1949 1950 1951 Robert R. Anderson C. William Buxton Harold A. Moffat John Nilson Harold R. Pennington William Rees Gordon E. Styles Robert R. Anderson C. William Buxton Harold A. Moffat John Nilson Harold R. Pennington William Rees Gordon E. Styles Allan Birchard C. William Buxton Harold A. Moffat Jack H. Nicholson John Nilson William Rees Gordon E. Styles 1952 1953 1954 Allan C. Birchard C. William Buxton Harold A. Moffat Jack H. Nicholson John Nilson Robert Range William Rees Allan C. Birchard C. William Buxton Harold A. Moffat Jack H. Nicholson John Nilson Robert Range William Rees Allan C. Birchard C. William Buxton Harold A. Moffat Jack H. Nicholson Robert Range William Rees Irwin Wiley School District No. 57 (Prince George) 1955 1956 1957 Allan C. Birchard Catherine Bryant C. William Buxton Harold A. Moffat Jack H. Nicholson Robert Range Irvin Wiley Allan C. Birchard Catherine Bryant C. William Buxton Harold A. Moffat Jack H. Nicholson Robert Range Irvin Wiley Catherine Bryant Harold A. Moffat Harry D. Peterson Marie A. Pratt Robert Range Irwin Wiley Allan W. Wilson 1958 1959 Roy G. Atkinson J. Chesley Brown Harold A. Moffat Harry D. Peterson Roy G. Pierrot Robert Range Allan W. Wilson Roy G. Atkinson John Holmes Kennedy H. Melville Harold A. Moffat Roy G. Pierrot Robert Range Jack Rhodes 1960 1961 Roy G. Atkinson John Holmes Kennedy H. Melville Harold A. Moffat Robert Range Jack Rhodes Allan W. Wilson Ha rol d A. M offat Sc hool Trus tee 1 944- 196 5 City of Prince George website 2011 Roy G. Atkinson James W. Elliot Kennedy H. Melville Harold A. Moffat Robert Range Jack Rhodes Allan W. Wilson 1962 1963 1964 Roy G. Atkinson James W. Elliot H. Melville Harold A. Moffat Shirley G. Preston Jack Rhodes Robert Range Dr. William J. Aitken Roy G. Atkinson James W. Elliot Vic Jay Harold A. Moffat Shirley G. Preston Robert Range Dr. William J. Aitken James W. Elliot Vic Jay Helen McLean Harold A. Moffat Robert Range Jack Rhodes School District No. 57 (Prince George) 1965 1966 1967 Dr. William J. Aitken James W. Elliot (c) Vic Jay Jean Kellett Helen McLean Harold A. Moffat Robert Range Catherine Bryant James W. Elliot (c) Vic Jay Jean Kellett Helen McLean A. Alf Nunweiller Colin A. Sabiston Catherine Bryant Vic Jay Jean Kellett (c) Helen McLean Colin A. Sabiston Jack Whittaker Galt Wilson 1968 1969 1970 William Adler Catherine Bryant Vic Jay Jean Kellett (c) Colin A. Sabiston Jack Whittaker Galt Wilson William Adler Catherine Bryant Jean Kellett (c) Jim Lang Jim Perry Colin A. Sabiston Galt Wilson Catherine Bryant Ross Craigie Jean Kellett (c) Jim Lang Jim Perry Colin A. Sabiston Galt Wilson (c) indicates chairperson In 1970, School District No. 58 (McBride) was amalgamated with School District No. 57 (Prince George). Mackenzie was also part of the district at this time. Trustees now represented a school district covering 52,000 square kilometers and extended from Bednesti to Valemount and Mackenzie to Hixon. S chool Tru st ees 1970 SD 57 Boardroom School District No. 57 (Prince George) 1971 1972 1973 Bob Affleck Catherine Bryant Ross Craigie Jim Lang (c) Joan McLatchey Colin B. Sabiston Chuck Truscott Bob Affleck Catherine Bryant Ross Craigie Jim Lang (c) Joan McLatchey Colin A. Sabiston Chuck Truscott Bob Affleck Catherine Bryant Ross Craigie Joan McLatchey (c) Colin B. Sabiston Walter Shelest Chuck Truscott 1974 1975 1976 Bob Affleck Dr. Charlie Boyd Jim Ellis Joan McLatchey (c) Walter Shelest Chuck Truscott Steve Wood Dr. Charlie Boyd Jim Ellis Anne Hogan Eva Kettle Joan McLatchey (c) Ruth Rushant Chuck Truscott Dr. Charlie Boyd Rev. Arne Jensen Eva Kettle Joan McLatchey (c) Ruth Rushant Steve Sintich Walter Shelest 1977 1978 1979 Dr. Charlie Boyd Rev. Arne Jensen Eva Kettle Joan McLatchey (c) Ruth Rushant Steve Sintich W. Bruce Strachan Dr. Charlie Boyd Austin Howard-Gibbon Rev. Arne Jensen Eva Kettle Ruth Rushant Steve Sintich W. Bruce Strachan (c) Dr. Charlie Boyd Cliff Dezell Austin Howard-Gibbon Rev. Arne Jensen Eva Kettle Steve Sintich W. Bruce Strachan (c) 1980 Cliff Dezell (c) Austin Howard-Gibbon Gordon Ingalls Rev. Arne Jensen Eva Kettle Doug Quinn Ruth Thorn Sc h o o l T ru s te e s 19 83 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection School District No. 57 (Prince George) 1981 1982 1983 Bill Brooks Cliff Dezell (c) Austin Howard-Gibbon Gordon Ingalls Rev. Arne Jensen Doug Quinn Ruth Thorn Lois Boone Cliff Dezell Graham Farstad Austin Howard- Gibbon Gordon Ingalls (c) Vic Rouse Roy Stewart Lois Boone Graham Farstad Austin Howard-Gibbon Gordon Ingalls (c) Vic Rouse Roy Stewart Margaret Sherring 1984 1985 1986 Lois Boone Steve Connors Graham Farstad (c) Austin Howard-Gibbon Vic Rouse Margaret Sherring Roy Stewart Lois Boone Bill Brooks Graham Farstad Gordon Ingalls Adrienne Radford Vic Rouse Roy Stewart (c) Bill Brooks Bob Holtby Gordon Ingalls Anne Jeffery Vic Rouse Adrienne Radford Roy Stewart (c) 1987 1988 1989 Gordon Ingalls Bob Holtby Katherine Hough Anne Jeffery Adrienne Radford Roy Stewart (c) Bob Viergever Doug Walls Bob Holtby Katherine Hough Ann McQuaid Adrienne Radford Roy Stewart (c) Bob Viergever Doug Walls Lesley Harris Bob Holtby Gordon Ingalls (c) Ann McQuaid Adrienne Radford Dave Turner 1990 Lesley Harris Bob Holtby Gordon Ingalls (c) Ann McQuaid Adrienne Radford Dave Turner Doug Walls Sc hool Trus tees 1 990 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection School District No. 57 (Prince George) 1991 1992 1993 Lesley Harris Bob Holtby Gordon Ingalls (c) Ann McQuaid Kathy Mueller Adrienne Radford Doug Walls Lesley Harris Bob Holtby Gordon Ingalls (c) Ann McQuaid Kathy Mueller Adrienne Radford Doug Walls Lesley Harris Bob Holtby Gordon Ingalls (c) Ann McQuaid Kathy Mueller Adrienne Radford Doug Walls 1994 1995 1996 Shirley Bond Lesley Harris Bob Holtby Gordon Ingalls (c) Kathy Mueller Adrienne Radford Doug Walls Shirley Bond Bev Christensen Lesley Harris Gordon Ingalls (c) Kathy Mueller Adrienne Radford Doug Walls Shirley Bond Bev Christensen Bill Christie Gordon Ingalls (c) Kathy Mueller Adrienne Radford Doug Walls 1997 1998 1999 Shirley Bond (c) Bev Christensen Bill Christie Barb Hall Doug Walls Patricia Wick-Thibault Greg Zimmerman Shirley Bond (c) Bev Christensen Bill Christie Barb Hall Doug Walls Patricia Wick-Thibault Greg Zimmerman Shirley Bond (c) Bev Christensen Bill Christie Barb Hall Doug Walls Patricia Wick-Thibault Greg Zimmerman 2000 2001 2002 Shirley Bond (c) Bev Christensen Bill Christie Barb Hall Doug Walls Patricia Wick-Thibault Greg Zimmerman Bill Christie (c) Bev Christensen Barb Hall Lynn Hall Michelle Marrelli Fred McLeod Patricia Wick-Thibault Bill Christie (c) Bev Christensen Barb Hall Lyn Hall Michelle Marrelli Fred McLeod Patricia Wick-Thibault School District No. 57 (Prince George) 2003 2004 Bill Christie (c) Carlene Keddie Lyn Hall Fred McLeod Michelle Marrelli John Rustad Patricia Wick-Thibault Bill Christie (c) Carlene Keddie Lyn Hall Fred McLeod Michelle Marrelli John Rustad Patricia Wick-Thibault Bill Christie (c) Lyn Hall Fred McLeod Michelle Marrelli Patricia Wick-Thibault John Rustad (May) 2006 2007 2008 Lois Boone Bill Christie (c) Lyn Hall Naomi Manning Michelle Marrelli Roxanne Ricard Sharel Warrington Lois Boone Bill Christie Lyn Hall (c) Naomi Manning Michelle Marelli Roxanne Ricard Sharel Warrington Lois Boone Bill Christie Lyn Hall (c) Naomi Manning Michelle Marelli Roxanne Ricard Sharel Warrington 2009 2010 2011 Trish Bella Lois Boone Valentine Crawford Lyn Hall (c) Roxanne Ricard Sharel Warrington Rhonda White Trish Bella Lois Boone Valentine Crawford Lyn Hall (c) Roxanne Ricard Sharel Warrington Rhonda White Betty Bekkering Trish Bella Tim Bennett Sharon Bourassa Kate Cooke Brenda Hooker Sharel Warrington (c) Boa rd of Ed uca t ion 20 11 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection 2005 2012 2013 2014 Trish Bella Betty Bekkering Tim Bennett Sharon Bourassa Kate Cooke Brenda Hooker Sharel Warrington (c) Trish Bella Betty Bekkering Tim Bennett Sharon Bourassa Kate Cooke Brenda Hooker Sharel Warrington (c) Trish Bella Betty Bekkering Tim Bennett Sharon Bourassa Kate Cooke Brenda Hooker Sharel Warrington (c) 2015 2016 2017 Tony Cable (c) Tim Bennett Trish Bella Bob Harris Brenda Hooker Sharel Warrington Bruce Wiebe Tony Cable (c) Tim Bennett Trish Bella Bob Harris Brenda Hooker Sharel Warrington Bruce Wiebe Tim Bennett (c) Tony Cable Trish Bella Bob Harris Brenda Hooker Sharel Warrington Bruce Wiebe 2018 2019 2020 Tim Bennett (c) Tony Cable Trish Bella Bob Harris Brenda Hooker Sharel Warrington Bruce Wiebe Tim Bennett (c) Sharel Warrington Betty Beckering Trent Derrick Ron Polillo Bob Thompson Shuirose Valimohamed Tim Bennett (c) Sharel Warrington (c) Betty Beckering Trent Derrick (c) Ron Polillo Bob Thompson Shuirose Valimohamed 2021 2022 2023 Sharel Warrington (c) Tim Bennett Betty Beckering Ron Polillo Bob Thompson Trent Derrick* (c) Shuirose Valimohamed* (*resigned Nov. ’21) Milton Mahoney* Rachel Weber* (*Jan ’22 by-election) Singfest In 1974, out of growing choral enthusiasm, district Fine Arts Coordinator, David Lindstrom, organized a district choral festival. This festival was continued and supported by succeeding Fine Arts Coordinator Garry Hartley. Music teachers assisted with the organization. After the Fine Arts Coordinator position was eliminated, a committee of music teachers assumed the leadership of the festival. In 1978 this committee became the Singfest Committee that organized and ran the annual School District No. 57 Singfest. Singfest continually strived for choral music excellence, keeping it a learning, non-competitive experience for both teachers and students. Outstanding choral adjudicators were hired from across Canada and the United States. These adjudicators had a big impact in the development of choral music in Prince George. The Singfest format first started with school choirs participating at Vanier Hall over two or three days with as many as fifteen elementary and secondary choirs involved. Choirs were bussed in from throughout the district. The day was broken up into morning and afternoon sessions, with choirs hearing each other during those sessions. Each choir performed two selections after which the adjudicator made verbal comments on what was performed well and positive encouragement for aspects needing improvement. Written comments were also provided by the adjudicator. A public performance was held each evening, by the choirs participating that day, as well as a concluding massed choir selection directed by the adjudicator. As costs and logistics of bussing became a concern, the Singfest Committee created a very successful “traveling adjudicator” format. The adjudicator was driven to each participating school where the choir performed its two selections, received a workshop with the adjudicator and rehearsed the collective choir selection. Public evening concerts at Vanier Hall featured performances by all choirs involved that day. March 1, 2007 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Singfest The Singfest Committee remained very consistent, with members changing infrequently. A lot of hard work was done throughout the whole school year to organize and hold the festival. The timing of Singfest was set early on to coincide with the district Professional Development day so choral teachers could participate in workshops with the adjudicator. When possible, a guest choir would be invited to sing at the evening performance. Singfest time was a very exciting time of the year for students and teachers. Committee member Linda Wenzel recalls how hard everyone worked preparing their musical selections, usually before or after school, or during lunch hours. Standing on the stage at Vanier Hall was a big thrill for the students. At the peak of participation, as many as 900 students were involved. To encourage performance and to allow SD 57 students the joy of the Vanier Hall experience, the Singfest Committee revitalized and sponsored the Christmas Nights of Music. All school music groups were invited to participate, including bands, recorders, etc. An outgrowth of Singfest was the establishment of excellent community children’s choirs: Die Meistersingers and The Bel Canto Children’s Choir that celebrated its 36th anniversary in April 2017. The School District Tapestry Singers is a performance group established in 2006 that welcomes children and youth in both a junior and a senior choir, grades 4-12. They perform various musical styles all the while enhancing their musical skills. They have received an invitation to perform in New York’s Carnegie Hall. Pineview Elementary Choir 1985-1986 SD 57 Education Heritage Collection Swim Program 1970-1984 The decision to operate an elementary school swim program came at a School Board meeting in December 1969. The initial budget for the program was not to exceed $31,000 Once the decision was made, the wheels started turning quickly. Superintendent Dave Todd called in a resource team to investigate and report on the program that was operating in Port Alberni and the feasibility of a program in Prince George. Members of this team were Don Chamberlain, Sig Kuehn and Dick Zarek. The team traveled to Port Alberni on an extended weekend and obtained all the information on bussing, programming and rental arrangements in order to prepare a report for the Prince George program. The report was submitted to the School Board. The decision came in early January 1970 that the program would begin in September. Dick Zarek was appointed as coordinator of the program. The mandate was to create a swim instruction program for grades 4 to 6. The program was to include Red Cross qualified instructors and Red Cross and School District 57 badges for swimming levels (from bubble blowers to advanced swimmers). No one would finish their lessons and not receive a badge. Every school was notified in May that all grade 4 to 6 students would be put in a swim class at their level. Students were asked to provide any swim level identification that they had and Dick Zarek visited each school and each classroom to determine the levels of the students. Class lists were prepared and sent to each school. A total of 10 classes per hour with 10 students in each were planned at the Four Seasons swimming pool. Every week, three hours each morning was scheduled for swim lessons resulting in a 10-hour program for each student. Because of the number of schools and students, different schools had different times of the year to take their lessons. There was mixing and matching of schools and swim classes. Annually, Dick Zarek visited the grade 4 classes from all elementary schools to determine the students’ swimming levels in order to place them in the appropriate learn-to-swim class. New students to the District in grade 5 and 6 were also evaluated and placed in a swim class. Dick Zarek worked closely with Stu Drinnan and Standard Bus to assure students arrived on time at the Four Seasons Pool and back at their schools when the program commenced in September 1970. As one class was dropped off at the pool, the other group was picked up and dropped off at their school. The planning and efficiency that went into the collection and return was much like a giant chess game but it worked well. In addition to the program at the Four Seasons Pool, satellite programs were also organized. The first program was at Bear Lake beginning in May 1973. The idea was to utilize the beach at Bear Lake. It was good in theory but problematic in practice. The lake did not always cooperate and neither did the weather, resulting in swim classes becoming water safety classes under the shelter. The second program was begun in 1975 when the pool in Mackenzie was built. It was an outdoor pool so May and June were still cool. The big advantage became the ability to heat the pool. Swim Program Some of the instructors in the program were: Marlene Wenschlag, Margaret Ballantyne, Frankie Carpenter, Lyn Fjellgaard, Louise Kelly, Peggy Fowlie (Paschal), Noreen Rustad, Joan Nielsen, Kaye Boyce, Jacquie Clements, Liz Clark, Helen Eaket, Georgina Lamanes, Betty Jean Pozer, Peloni Terwoort, Eve Lindelauf, Gladys Thorp, Margo Dewing, Joan Davies, Carol Schulte, Donna Foisy, Carrie Rodgers, Pat Boychuck, Barb Lapointe, and Leone Stewart. Each instructor received a wage of $6.50 per hour that was later raised to $10.00 per hour. In July 1974, the Program Coordinator’s position went from three-fifths to full time and Gary Peacock took over as coordinator. In 1976, the program was reduced from grades 4 – 6 to only grade 6 and the program was further reduced to a Water Skills Program. Gary Peacock went back to teaching in the classroom and Bob Jenner took over. He was the program coordinator from the the fall of 1976 until June 1980 when Murray Carpenter was hired. The program was completely eliminated on March 15, 1984. The secondary schools had also used the pool in the mornings, when it was available, and in the afternoons for recreation programs and swimming lessons. They provided their own teacher or instructor/lifeguard for the sessions. This program was discontinued in 1976. The school district’s swim program was truly a basic life skills course. AQUATIC ACTIVITIES Program stresses safety by Hazel Allan, Citizen Staff Reporter It isn’t just swimming that’s taught in the city pool these days — children are learning about ice and boating safety, cold water survival and hypothermia. The program is part of a revised Red Cross Water Safety Course, taught to all Grade 4, 5 and 6 pupils throughout Prince George. “Prince George is one of the pilot areas for the revised program and, in September, all indoor pools across B.C. will adopt it,” said Joanne McKinnon, Red Cross program coordinator for Water Safety… March 11, 1980 Courtesy of The Prince George Citizen