SCHOOL GROWTH PLAN
We are very proud to provide a rich learning environment for students on the unceded traditional and treaty lands of the ɬaʔamɩn (Tla’amin) people. The Wildwood area where James Thomson School is located is commonly refered to as θičəm (Thichum) which means “on the edge of the forest”. In 1914, five-acre parcels of land were made available for people wanting to settle in the Wildwood area. James Thomson was one of the people who camped on the Vancouver courthouse steps for more than a month to ensure he received a land grant. The school property is part of the original grant. 101 years ago, the first school in Wildwood opened in 1923, with 30 pupils from Grades one to six. Additions were made and in 1931, the primary building was raised to allow for classrooms in the basement.
In 1955 the main building was constructed, commencing with the Gymnasium and two classrooms. Further classrooms were added in 1958. The student population reached a peak in 1990, with approximately 375 students enrolled in Grade K through 7. The present enrollment is 266 students. In 1986, with the assistance of the Tla'amin Nation, an afternoon language enrichment class was begun at Tla'amin for Kindergarten students. We are committed to supporting ayajuthem language instruction in all classrooms. Through annual legacy projects, our students and school strengthen our connection to the Tla'amin Nation and heritage.
In 2010, James Thomson welcomed its first French Immersion students to the school with a Kindergarten/Gr.1 class and now boasts a robust K-7 program with students graduating with a dual diploma from Brooks Secondary. Our May Day celebration is a part of our Wildwood tradition, and the Maypole Friendship dance and May Day parade are highlights of our year.
James Thomson is fortunate to have strong parent involvement in the school's activities and traditions. Parent volunteers are an integral part of the school garden activity, Farm to School feasts, and the school's breakfast program.
Our school mascot is the raven, and our motto is:
You Have to Believe to Achieve!
klahsum kwath kwy yehgon ooksum kwol ee!
Vous devez croire pour atteindre!
Read the full School Growth Plan: