Sir William Macdonald elementary renamed after 2-year consultation

After 33 submissions and years of consultations, an East Vancouver School has a new name.

Sir William Macdonald Elementary School on East Hastings Street and Victoria Drive will be renamed to Xpey’ elementary – the Musqueam word for cedar cove or cedar.

The process began two years ago, after the Vancouver School Board (VSB) asked the public for suggestions.

“I’m pleased that the renaming committee recommended this name, which reflects both the Indigenous heritage and education history of the area,” said outgoing VSB trustee Dianne Turner.

“It is important for the District Aboriginal Focus School program that the school has an Indigenous name.”

The VSB said Cedar Cove was the name of the original school built on the site.  But a new school eventual opened and named after Sir William Macdonald, a tobacco tycoon.