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Renaming Ryerson Heights

We want your ideas

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 16, 2021

In June 2021, Grand Erie’s Board of Trustees approved the request for renaming Ryerson Heights Elementary School. We are moving forward to break the connection between the legacy of Egerton Ryerson and our school and Grand Erie’s vision and mission.

Ryerson_Exterior_Nov16_2021.jpg
Above: Doug Ouellette, Principal of Ryerson Heights Elementary School.

Now Grand Erie is looking for your input on a new name.

Please fill out the form below and tell us your idea for a name and explain why it’s so great!

Our policy governing school naming offers considerations that may apply in naming a school – including local geography, streets, historical names or events, or an individual with an outstanding and enduring contribution to the Grand Erie educational community.

What is the re-naming process?

  • Public input through our form below will be received until January 17, 2022
  • The top 10 submissions, based on a review by the Principal of the school, will be presented to the School Re-naming Transition Committee.
  • The Committee will review the submissions, and seek input from staff, students and relevant community members, including from the Indigenous community
  • The Committee will bring a final recommendation to the Board of Trustees in the Spring of 2022 for the final selection
  • We anticipate September 2022 to be the effective date for the new name for the school
     

Why are we re-naming Ryerson Heights?

There is a difference between history and legacy.

The name “Ryerson” on the school represents an alignment with the historical person of Egerton Ryerson. His legacy however, with respect to the establishment of the residential school system, is seen to be reprehensible through the devastating impact it has had on Indigenous people across Canada and in the communities Grand Erie serves.

It is time to formally recognize that Ryerson’s legacy does not align with Grand Erie’s mission to build a culture of learning, well-being and belonging to inspire each learner.

Renaming Ryerson Heights

Please submit your information below and hit the Submit button once completed.

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