We acknowledge that our learning is taking place on unceded and unsurrendered Algonquin Territory. We thank the Algonquin Nation for hosting us and recognize their enduring presence on this land.
In September 2024, Mino Mikan Elementary School opened its doors to approximately 460 Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 students, while providing 39 child care spaces.
Programs:
Our school offers both English and Early French Immersion programs.
Facilities:
- library/learning commons
- 28 classrooms
- large gymnasium
Choosing our School Name
In order to engage the students and the new school community, the school principal met with students during regular visits to Vimy Ridge Public School and Robert Bateman Public School as well as engaging parents and members of the school community in providing naming suggestions.
An initial survey was shared with students in Grade 5 at Vimy Ridge, parents/guardians and the community in late February and March to solicit potential names for the new elementary school. On 2 April 2024, the committee met to review the approximate 50 school name submissions made by students, parents, staff and community members. Upon consideration of the submissions and names generated through conversations with Algonquin elder Albert Dumont coupled with the OCDSB guidelines for school names, the committee started the process of short listing names.
Based on the survey feedback, it seems that many parents preferred the name Mikana Elementary School. The school is built on Miikana road, which is an Ojibwe word meaning path. Comments shared about the name were that it is easy to remember, it is a gateway for many paths for students and it has an Indigenous connection to the land. Albert Dumont proposed instead that an Algonquin word such as Mikan or Mino Miikan be considered given the territory where the school exists.
After deliberation, the committee opted in favor of an Algonquin name as the recommendation for the new elementary school in Findlay Creek. Mino Mikan translates to "the good path" in the Algonquin language. The committee saw it as a representation of a positive beginning for students, opening many doors for students - a journey towards learning, growth, and community contribution. They believe the name resonates with the area of Findlay Creek is known as Pathways and has a connection with Miikana Dr., the street where the school is situated. Choosing a name with an Algonquin background is seen by the committee as a meaningful step towards reconciliation and is in line with the OCDSB Strategic Plans focus on social responsibility. An Algonquin-named school offers valuable learning opportunities for students and the school community as they delve deeper into the history of the Algonquin people.
