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Edmonton Public Schools announces the renaming of Oliver School to wîhkwêntôwin School

Tue, 9 Apr, 2024

At the April 9 Board Meeting, the Edmonton Public Schools’ Board of Trustees announced the renaming of Oliver School to wîhkwêntôwin School (pronounced we-kwen-to-win). wîhkwêntôwin is a Cree word that can be translated into English as ‘circle of friends’.

The central neighbourhood, where the school is located, was recently renamed wîhkwêntôwin by the City of Edmonton, following a renaming process led by the community league. Students, staff and families of the school were engaged in a meaningful and thorough way during community consultation conducted by the community league, and feel wîhkwêntôwin reflects the values of the school community.

“We are so pleased to make this announcement and for the school to share the same name as the community it calls home,” says Edmonton Public Schools’ Board Chair Julie Kusiek. “We appreciate the work of the wîhkwêntôwin Community League to rename the neighbourhood through their ‘Uncover Oliver’ campaign, and for including the school community in that process through classroom activities. As part of our commitment to anti-racism and equity, and in the spirit of reconciliation, this name honours the many peoples who have lived in, contributed to and supported this area.”

Online and digital updates are underway, and the rollout of new signage and other changes at the school will take place over the next few months.