The Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board is advancing plans to rename the board after receiving strong community support during a public engagement process.
According to the board, 71 per cent of participants expressed interest in exploring a new name, underscoring a shared desire for a title that better reflects the board’s identity and the communities it serves.
Community Engagement at the Forefront
Director of Education Stephen O’Sullivan thanked the community for its active participation and emphasized the board’s commitment to ongoing dialogue.
“We are truly grateful for the incredible participation and support from our community. The strong mandate to move forward is exciting, and we are eager to take the next steps together,” O’Sullivan said. “At the same time, we acknowledge that some have expressed concerns. To those who feel that the name change is not a priority right now, we hear you.”
Board Chair Kevin MacKenzie echoed this sentiment, stating that transparency and collaboration will be central to the renaming process.
“Our community has shown a deep commitment to this process, and we are dedicated to ensuring that the new name reflects the values that matter most— inclusivity, simplicity, and our Catholic identity,” said MacKenzie. “We are excited to move forward together.”
Next Steps in the Renaming Process
The board will now establish a Naming Committee to develop a shortlist of potential new names. These options will be shared with the community for further feedback, ensuring continued public engagement in the decision-making process.
Key Themes from Community Feedback
The board has identified several key themes from community input that will help guide the renaming effort:
- Inclusivity – A desire for a name that represents all communities served, including the City of Kawartha Lakes.
- Simplicity – A preference for a shorter, more easily recognizable name.
- Representation – The importance of maintaining the board’s Catholic identity while embracing the diverse areas it serves.
- Community Involvement – A strong interest in ongoing participation throughout the process.
Addressing Concerns
While the majority of respondents support a name change, the board acknowledges concerns raised by some members of the community, particularly regarding financial considerations and educational priorities. Many respondents expressed a strong connection to the existing name, citing its long-standing presence in the region.
The board has assured stakeholders that resources will remain focused on classroom and student support. Further opportunities for public input will be available through the upcoming Multi-Year Strategic Plan consultation, set to launch in March.
Managing Costs Responsibly
The board has pledged to implement the name change in a cost-effective manner, ensuring classroom resources remain unaffected. Expected one-time costs include:
- Graphic design for a new logo and brand guidelines
- Updating facility signage
- In-house administrative and digital updates
Changes will be introduced gradually to maximize resource efficiency and minimize financial impact.
A detailed summary of community feedback is available at https://engagepvnc.ca/our-name-our-story, and community members are encouraged to remain engaged as the renaming process moves forward.