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Letter to the Editor: Dort Martini Jack Closkey

Think hard before rebranding school

Re: “Why stop at logo, slogan, and mascot?” Letters, June 11

It was with great interest that I read Lach Farrell’s op-ed piece. He raises many good points around the issue of rebranding our secondary school. The three themes of strong academics, school pride, and uniqueness were certainly true to what SHSS was when he was in charge. However, are they, in fact, true today?

What evaluation of the school has been done to evidence the presence of these themes? Against what standard has the school been compared to clearly define the “brand” of Stanley Humphries Secondary School? Or, are these themes simply things that the school strives to be? What has happened to the honour roll at the school? Are the rumours true that some parents have moved their students to a neighbouring school district? Where is the regional and provincial recognition of arts and athletic programs?

When you strive to “rebrand” a school with a tradition such as Stanley Humphries, there are many questions to be asked. It is not simply a matter of choosing a woodland animal as a new mascot.

Jack Closkey

Teacher, Vice-principal, Principal,

Stanley Humphries Secondary School

1969-98

 

 

Changing the slogan, etc. of our high school is wrong. Mr. Farrell has years experience and better insight than the Grade 12 class. History, pride, and accomplishments in all fields has made Stanley Humphries a school to look back at with fond memories.

We who have attended SHSS don’t need a modern change.

Dort Martini

Castlegar