Part 6 in a series introduced here.
→William Burgess’s connection to the past is well represented in its hallways. Murals depict historical and contemporary scenes, as do poster boards, and display cases of historical material, old trophies, along with more recent additions. Pictures of past students, teachers, and administrators mix with ones from present times. Near the new displays of photos honouring past staff and students over the course of the school’s century, is an honour role of students who served in the Second World War, as well as a plaque memorializing local fallen First World War soldiers.
The photo display and plaque, like so much of the work for the centennial, mixed the work of school staff, teacher, school community volunteers, and local institutions. Service organizations and businesses donated funds, items (such as much needed chairs), and their expertise (for printing, for example). A handful of the members of the Centennial Committee had valuable organizing experience and displayed impressive leadership (that I gratefully followed!). Several teachers were invaluable to the success of the event, and the Principal’s leadership was crucial. While some of the work was carried on within the school and integrated into its educational program for students, a great deal of the work engaged in by the teachers was voluntary. The parents on the Centennial Committee, and others who were called on for help, were volunteers, of course.
My impression, after reflecting on the material in this collection, speaking with alumni and school staff, and on the centennial celebration, is that William Burgess school has been productively engaged with its community since it first opened its doors. It is gratifying to recognize this ongoing collaboration between school and community. Schools shape our collective futures, and that’s a past worth celebrating!
