David Thompson Elementary Celebrates 50th Anniversary

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Story provided by Chelsea Isenor, Director of Communications and Board Administration

On Thursday, September 26, 2024, students, staff, and alumni gathered to celebrate David Thompson Elementary School’s 50th Anniversary at the school’s Welcome Back BBQ.

Since the school opened in 1974, David Thompson Elementary (DT) has been a true extension of its community and a hub of Westsyde community and culture for generations of students and families.

“The Westsyde and David Thompson community demonstrates that people have a way of coming home. We see many people coming back to David Thompson to teach and raise their children and families in the community near here. Seeing so many familiar faces today is a testament to David Thompson Elementary as a school, and the community that has been built within the school,” shared Board Chair Heather Grieve.

Throughout David Thompson’s school history, it has gone through catchment changes, transitioned from an English and French Immersion school, housed the Big Little Science Centre and the Salmonid Enhancement Program, and undergone a few internal renovations, but as a whole the building and spirit of DT continues to thrive thanks to the community that surrounds it and has built it into what it is today.

Over the years, many staff and principals have shaped this community school, from DT’s first principal Mr. Gordon Moffat, who was a beloved teacher and school leader, to its current Principal, Ms. Dyan Gunnlaugson, who is also a former DT student.

“Many David Thompson teachers and staff have been students here or have their own children in this school. This is important because it means as a group we are very invested in the school, the culture, and the neighbourhood," shared Principal Dyan Gunnlaugson. "For the staff at this school, this is not just a job, this is a means to help shape and maintain the values of our community.”

David Thompson is a multi-generational community—former students are now parents and grandparents of current students and several current teachers are also alumni. The DT family is invested in the school’s history, culture, and community values.

Gerry and Judi Gellowitz, who were teachers in the school’s first years, shared photos and stories from the school's history, including memories of field trips to Barkerville and stories of their own children and grandchildren attending the school.

The DT community spirit was on full display during Thursday’s 50th Anniversary Welcome Back BBQ. Students and families gathered for fun and games, shared memories while eating burgers, participated in a 50/50 for the 50th, and cheered for the new DT Tigers mascot as it was revealed by the DT PAC.

Last year, students participated in a contest to design a DT school logo incorporating the year the school opened, the school mascot, and Indigenous content. The winning logo, designed by Grade 7 student Cambria Edgecombe, was displayed on hoodies worn by staff at the event.

“Over the years, many David Thompson Elementary principals have shared the motto of “Better Together” for this school and community. I appreciate how you continue this tradition of strong positive relationships and connections not only within your school but between all Westsyde schools,” shared Superintendent Dr. Rhonda Nixon. “I look forward to seeing how each of you carries on this wonderful 50 year tradition of being better together.”