On behalf of the Princess Margaret Senior Secondary School (Maggie) Parent Advisory Council, I’d like to thank everyone who attended our special PAC meeting on Nov. 30 at the school.
The meeting attracted between 150-200 parents and students and allowed them to address the visiting School District 67 trustees to voice any concerns, issues, and/or opinions of the possible reconfiguration of Maggie into a middle school.
There were many passionate pleas to the board to respect the sanctity of Maggie as a high school. There were tears, cheers and a lot of emotion all the way round.
Very real concerns surfaced as to the possible reality of so many students becoming just a little fish in a big pond if amalgamated with Penticton Secondary School; also heard was a plea from one parent who had direct dealings with a suicidal high school student and like she said, “losing even one is too many,” and yet another parent expressed very real concern for the loss of identity that happens when the school population is so large.
Maggie is a very unique school and you can feel it when you walk in. It’s inclusive and prides itself on being a family.
While it was acknowledged that Pen High is also a very good school, it is difficult for many to imagine the city going back to the one high school model, thus eliminating any type of choice for teens.
We all know how difficult change can be and it is even worst when foisted upon us without us first feeling like we’ve been heard.
It’s not too late to give your concerns a voice. Go to the SD67 website and fill in the questionnaire that is there. Let the board know how the these changes will affect you and your family. Maybe make suggestions. Have they looked at all the options?
Don’t give up while there is still time. We all have a voice and my fingers are crossed that Maggie will remain a high school for many years to come. Thank you.
Faye Arcand
Penticton