Celebrating Completion of the What’s In a Name? Legacy Project

The Abbotsford School District, in collaboration with the Abbotsford School District Retired Teachers Association (ADRTA) Heritage Committee, is proud to celebrate the completion of the What’s In a Name? legacy project—an initiative that brings to life the rich history behind local school names. 

Launched to commemorate the ADRTA’s 50th anniversary, this meaningful project was a labour of love, gifted to the District as a lasting educational resource. It compiles historical details from newspapers, archives, and board records—information that was previously scattered and difficult to access—into a format that engages students and the community alike. 

“As students explore the stories behind their school names, they gain a deeper appreciation of their community’s past,” said Tracy Krys, Director of Curriculum for the Abbotsford School District. “We are incredibly grateful to the ADRTA Heritage Committee for their dedication and generosity in preserving this important piece of local history. This resource will enrich classroom discussions and inspire learning for years to come.” 

In the first phase of the project, dedicated school history pages were added to each school’s website, offering fascinating insights into the people, places, and events that have shaped Abbotsford’s schools and neighbourhoods. Now, in addition to these online resources, each school has received a beautifully assembled binder containing historical information for all schools in the district, providing educators with a comprehensive, hands-on tool to support learning activities. 

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the ADRTA Heritage Committee for their commitment to education and community history, ensuring that the stories of the past continue to inspire future generations.