Four Cowichan schools get a reprieve; Somenos, Koksilah, Tansor and Mill Bay elementaries stay open to cheers, tears
Times Colonist (Victoria)
May 27, 2008 
By: Jeff Bell

DUNCAN -- Cheers and tears from a crowd of close to 200 people greeted the word last night that four Cowichan Valley elementary schools being considered for closure in June have been given a reprieve.

The relief at knowing the schools would stay open had many in the crowd wiping their eyes and hugging friends.

The decision by Cowichan Valley Board of Education trustees to retain Somenos, Koksilah, Tansor and Mill Bay elementaries was in line with recommendations released last week by Lee Southern, a special adviser appointed to the district by Education Minister Shirley Bond. Southern was brought in at the board's request to help deal with such pressing issues as a projected budget shortfall, and Bond made it clear that she expected his advice be followed….

The result of the meeting "was an indication of the considered will of the community," Simmons said.

The chance of closure for the schools galvanized opposition throughout the district. Parents emphasized the special features of their schools, such as the early French immersion offered at Mill Bay and Koksilah's aboriginal-education program, as well as the role that the schools play in providing child-care spaces….