Tofino is set to match an ongoing recreational renaissance by getting the ball rolling on new opportunities both inside and out.
The District of Tofino and School District 70 recently announced a new Memorandum of Understanding that will increase public use of Wickaninnish Community School’s gymnasium and sports fields.
Last December, Wickaninnish Community School Society Coordinator Caleb Harding told the town’s municipal council that a recreational boom was occurring with a 58 per cent increase in student participation and a 32 per cent increase in programming. He added that free transportation offered by the society had led to a 120 per cent increase in Indigenous student participation.
The new partnership between Tofino and SD70 is designed to continue that trend by helping young and old residents find opportunities to get and stay active.
“This MOU marks a significant step forward in our collective efforts to promote active lifestyle opportunities and strengthen community connections,” said Tofino mayor Dan Law through a recent media release. “Thanks to this important partnership, the District will be able to offer more diverse recreational programs for all ages and interests. This MOU is a momentous achievement, and I am grateful to the Pacific Rim School District leadership for their dedication to helping build a healthy and vibrant West Coast community culture.”
Along with the increased access, the two parties have also agreed to significantly upgrade the school’s fields. Tofino is set to invest $623,500 in funding received through the provincial government’s Growing Community’s Fund and SD70 will donate 83,000 square feet of land as their contribution.
“This initiative aims to address the growing demand for recreational programs and facilities in Tofino, supporting a healthier and more connected community,” the announcement reads.
It adds that the enhanced access to the gym and fields will help foster community well-being and reflects a shared commitment towards recreational and social opportunities.
“We are delighted to collaborate with the District of Tofino on this important initiative, providing the community with even broader access to our school facilities. We believe that schools are the heart of our communities,” said Pacific Rim School District’s Board Chair Pam Craig. “This agreement reinforces that role, ensuring our resources benefit all residents.”
Tofino’s district office and SD70 began working on the new agreement in 2023 with an eye on increasing access to school facilities outside of school hours.
“During the 2023/2024 school year, the District of Tofino successfully operated evening programming in the school gym two days per week. The demand for community programming was so strong that the program was expanded,” the announcement reads.
“This enhanced community access will include a variety of indoor and outdoor programming. The District of Tofino’s Community Program’s Department will coordinate the scheduling and management of these activities, ensuring they align with school operations and maintenance schedules.”
The agreement is expected to create new programming opportunities and an updated recreation schedule will be released by Tofino’s recreation department, which is encouraging feedback from residents.
“Community feedback will be integral in shaping the future of these programs, and residents are encouraged to share their ideas and suggestions,” the announcement reads. “The District of Tofino and the Pacific Rim School District look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have on the community and are committed to working together to ensure its success.”
