Edmonton Public Schools has made the decision to rename Oliver School, located in the Oliver neighbourhood of Edmonton, Alberta. The school will now be known as Grandin School, in honor of the influential Catholic bishop Vital-Justin Grandin.
The renaming process began in June 2020, after the school’s community council brought forward a request to change the name. The council felt that the current name, Oliver School, did not accurately reflect the values and diversity of the community it serves.
After careful consideration and consultation with the community, the school board voted unanimously to approve the name change. The decision was made in recognition of the significant contributions made by Bishop Grandin to the education system in Alberta and his advocacy for Indigenous peoples.
Bishop Grandin was a key figure in the establishment of Catholic schools in Alberta and played a crucial role in the development of the residential school system. While his actions and beliefs are now widely condemned, the school board believes that it is important to acknowledge and learn from our history.
The renaming process will involve updating the school’s signage, website, and other materials. The school will also work closely with the community to ensure a smooth transition and to celebrate the new name.
This decision aligns with Edmonton Public Schools’ commitment to creating inclusive and welcoming learning environments for all students. The school board recognizes the importance of acknowledging and honoring the diverse cultures and histories of the communities it serves.
The new name, Grandin School, will officially take effect on September 1, 2021, coinciding with the start of the new school year. The school board is confident that this change will have a positive impact on the school community and will continue to work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable education system for all.
