A new elementary school in Kitchener has a name.
In a release on Thursday, the Waterloo Region District School Board announced the school at 670 Thomas Slee Drive will be known as Willow River Public School.
“The name Willow River Public School reflects the area’s deeply rooted natural and cultural connections to the Grand River watershed. O:se Kenhionhata:tie is the Mohawk name for the Grand River and means “Willow River,” referring to the many willow trees along the river,” the release said.
The school will open in September 2025, welcoming 591students. The building will also include a childcare centre.
School board trustees approved the name recommended by a committee after more than 300 potential names were considered.
“The name Willow River Public School carries such a powerful symbolism. It connects us to the land, the history of the Grand River, and the deep roots of the Indigenous Peoples who have cared for this land for generations,” Carol Coyle, principal of Willow River Public School, said in the release.
“As we build this school’s identity together, I’m excited to see how this will inspire learning, share our values, and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.”
Bangishimo, a local Indigenous advocate, welcomed the decision.
In a message to CTV News, they noted how the chosen name reflects the unofficial change some community members have made to refer to Victoria Park as Willow River Park.
“This June marks the 5-year anniversary since we reclaimed space in the heart of what is now known as Willow River Park. The name O:se Kenhionhata:tie was a gift to the camp, which means Willow River — the original name of the so-called ‘Grand River.’ Many came to know us as Land Back Camp,” they wrote.
“In 2022, we made it clear that the name Victoria Park no longer reflected the spirit or history of this place. We didn’t wait for permission from those in power — we wanted change,” they reflected.
“This year, the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) put out a call to name their new elementary school. Amy Smoke, along with community members, submitted the name Willow River. On April 16th, 2025, it became official: the new school will be named Willow River Public School. This is more than a name. It’s a return. It’s a reminder. And this is only the beginning,” the post continued.
