Victoria News reports that the Greater Victoria School District (SD 61) is considering a new electoral model based on municipal and First Nations boundaries. The new model was created by a taskforce that formed at the request of the Township of Esquimalt with an aim of building stronger relationships and reconciliation within SD 61. The proposed model would create seven trustee electoral areas: one each from Esquimalt Nation, Songhees Nation, Esquimalt, Oak Bay, and View Royal and Highlands; as well as two each from Saanich and Victoria. At an upcoming session, representatives from each of the regions and the school district will share further details with the public. “It’s encouraging to see real steps being taken to make space for Indigenous voices in decisions that shape our kids’ education and futures,” said Esquimalt Nation Chief Jerome Thomas. “This kind of collaboration shows what’s possible when we all come to the table with respect and open minds.”
