At their June 19 regular meeting, the Board of Trustees debated their May 29 Notice of Motion and voted to approve the renaming process of  École Coloniale Estates School (ÉCES). They also approved the proposed public engagement process for the renaming of the school, and added an education component for the community, staff and students.

“As governors, we have a responsibility to respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action regarding education,” said Board Chair Esther Eckert. “We also have a responsibility to influence growth and change in a positive and meaningful way so that all members of the community feel proud of their school.” 

This process began nearly two years ago, after the Board received a formal request from the ÉCES  School Council to rename the school. They see the current name as causing unintentional harm to the Indigenous and Metis members of the school community.

Since then, the Board had discussions with Elders, Indigenous leaders, Indigenous Studies professors and others – in particular, they heard from people who were most impacted by the nation’s colonial legacy. All feedback received formed critical components in the Board’s process to decide whether or not to rename the school. 

Earlier this month, the Beaumont community was invited to provide their comments and questions on the Notice of Motion (view the feedback summary). 

The feedback opportunity was not designed to be an opinion poll, which would have required a different format. It was one of several sources of input the Board had to consider. 

“We acknowledge and are grateful for the many, many comments provided to the Board through the online engagement opportunity,” said Ward 4 Trustee Robyn Steed. “There were compelling and passionate views brought forward in support of, and also against, changing the name of the school.” 

The Board believes that their decision to proceed with the school renaming is consistent with the Division’s mission, vision, and values, and that this process could be completed without incurring great financial costs and take into account the rich history and culture of Beaumont. 

“We would like to thank the community for their feedback, and will use this information to have a collaborative renaming process that ensures the comments received will help guide our next steps,” said Chair Eckert.

Students, staff, parents and the wider community will have the opportunity to provide suggestions for a new school name in the next phase. More information to follow in the Fall.