The fall of 2028 marks 75 years since the original seven-classroom James Bay elementary opened at the corner of Oswego and Simcoe streets. As the school board chair remarked at the opening ceremony in November 1953, the new school was "a practical structure, built of materials likely to give the longest possible service."

Although the school has evolved through expansions and renovations, reminders of its history remain throughout the building. Additional classrooms, a gymnasium, and the Community Centre were added in the 1970s, adding services and broadening access..

In the decades since, thousands of children have passed through James Bay's doors. Many of the school's first students are now in their 80s, and some of today's students follow in the footsteps of parents who also walked these same halls. The school's bond with the surrounding neighbourhood remains strong, with the Community School continuing to serve as a gathering place and community hub.

2028 LEGACY PROJECTS

The James Bay PAC has been seeking input from staff, families and community since 2024, as it looks to build a legacy from our 75th year. Focussed on themes of "play" and "art," the PAC is pursuing longer term projects that enrich the experience of students, while making a broader impact in our community.

Fundraising is now underway to create an experiential education project that will commission a Coast Salish pole, capturing the deep history of the land beneath our school and community. Click here to learn more about this project and how you can help make it a reality. 

We are also excited for the MacDonald Park playground refresh, which comes ahead of our milestone year. The replacement of the 31-year-old wooden structure, and accessibility improvements, are areas of concern raised by successive PACs since 2021. Among Victoria's most used parks, we are grateful to the City for upgrades to this shared space.

MORE TO COME

As 2028 approaches, we encourage you to return to this page for details on ways we will mark year 75.

To share your ideas, skills and volunteer your time, email us at hello@jamesbaypac.com. We can't do it without you.