For Immediate Release: June 10, 2024

TOFINO, B.C. – The Pacific Rim School District’s Board of Education and the District of Tofino have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) regarding community access to Wickaninnish Community School and have agreed to partner on providing upgrades to the school's sports fields.

Firstly, the Pacific Rim School District and the District of Tofino would like to express its gratitude to the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation for being able to conduct business on its traditional territory. Both organizations remain committed to the respectful and responsible stewardship of the land’s natural resources and to the preservation of the local environment, aiming to create the type of sustainable community residents can enjoy for future generations.

Through ongoing collaboration, the District of Tofino and the Pacific Rim School District are pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance community access to Wickaninnish Community School facilities for recreation programming. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to fostering community well-being and providing residents with increased opportunities for physical activity and social engagement.

The MOU outlines a collaborative framework to allow the community greater use of school spaces outside of school hours, including the gymnasium, sports fields, and other school-owned spaces. This initiative aims to address the growing demand for recreational programs and facilities in Tofino, supporting a healthier and more connected community.

District of Tofino Mayor - Dan Law expressed enthusiasm for the new agreement:

“This MOU marks a significant step forward in our collective efforts to promote active lifestyle opportunities and strengthen community connections. Thanks to this important partnership, the District will be able to offer more diverse recreational programs for all ages and interests. This MOU is a momentous achievement, and I am grateful to the Pacific Rim School District leadership for their dedication to helping build a healthy and vibrant West Coast community culture.”

Pacific Rim School District’s Board Chair - Pam Craig highlighted the educational and social benefits of the agreement:

“We are delighted to collaborate with the District of Tofino on this important initiative, providing the community with even broader access to our school facilities. We believe that schools are the heart of our communities. This agreement reinforces that role, ensuring our resources benefit all residents.”

The two parties began working together on the development of an agreement in 2023 to provide stable access to school facilities outside of regular school hours and to formalize each organization’s responsibilities and ensure good long-term planning and resourcing. During the 2023/2024 school year, the District of Tofino successfully operated evening programming in the school gym two days per week. The demand for community programming was so strong that the program was expanded.

This enhanced community access will include a variety of indoor and outdoor programming. The District of Tofino’s Community Program’s Department will coordinate the scheduling and management of these activities, ensuring they align with school operations and maintenance schedules.

Additionally, the District of Tofino and the Pacific Rim School District have agreed to partner on a significant capital project that will upgrade the school's existing sports field. The District of Tofino will invest $623,500 in funding received through the Province of British Columbia’s Growing Community’s Fund, with the Pacific Rim School District donating 83,000 square feet of land as an in-kind donation towards the project.

Residents can expect to see new program offerings and facility availability in the coming months, with schedules to be released through the District of Tofino’s regular communication channels.  Community feedback will be integral in shaping the future of these programs, and residents are encouraged to share their ideas and suggestions.

The District of Tofino and the Pacific Rim School District look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have on the community and are committed to working together to ensure its success.

Contacts

Adam Doolittle

Communications Coordinator

District of Tofino

(T) 250 725 3229

(E) ac.onifot@elttilooda

 

Barbara Ross

Secretary-Treasurer

Pacific Rim School District

(T) 250 720 2758

(E) ac.cb.07ds@ssorb