Turtle Island Public School Celebrates Official Opening

Principal Holly Powell, Director of Education Bill Tucker, Mariam Hmeidan & Manahil Ahmad, Mayor of Woodstock Jerry Acchione and staff unveil the Official Opening plaque. (Kyrah Smith photo)

Kyrah Smith, Echo Correspondent

On May 20, Woodstock's newly completed Turtle Island Public School and Childcare Centre held its official opening ceremony, welcoming students, staff, families, and community members to celebrate the milestone.

Located at 717 Knights Lane, the school first opened its doors on February 17, nearly two years after construction began in May 2024. Designed to accommodate approximately 850 students, the opening marked a significant milestone for the region, drawing attention from local media as well as outlets from surrounding communities, including London. Turtle Island brings together students and families from Woodstock, Zorra, and East Zorra-Tavistock, creating a diverse and vibrant learning community.

The ceremony began with the singing of O Canada, led by the school's Grade 1 students.

Student co-hosts Mariam Hmeidan and Manahil Ahmad then welcomed guests and introduced Principal Holly Powell, who reflected on the years of planning that led to the school's opening.

“Well, today is a very big day,” said Powell. “We have all of our students here and we have some very special adults here. The school started planning a long time ago, with lots of adults sitting around a table and making sure that we put what students needed first.”

Powell went on to thank the staff, teachers, parents, and community members who helped bring the school to life.

“We have the responsibility to make sure that every day we work our hardest and treat each other like otters, which is our school mascot,” she said. “We treat each other like family. Thank you, everybody.”

Home and School Chair Nadine Smith spoke next, highlighting the importance of community involvement and support.

“We have a passionate group of parents and educators who, like me, are dedicated to creating a partnership between home and classroom,” said Smith. “But to make magic happen, we need resources.”

Smith encouraged those who are able to donate or volunteer, noting that every contribution directly benefits students and the broader school community.

“I’m looking forward to an upcoming school year filled with lots of ideas and excitement,” she added.

A representative from the YMCA also shared remarks about their partnership with Turtle Island and the childcare centre located within the school.

Throughout the ceremony, students showcased their talents through a variety of performances, while guests were introduced to the Turtle Island School Song, which students and staff

enthusiastically sang together. Director of Education Bill Tucker also taught students the now-famous “Turtle Island Wave,” adding a fun and energetic moment to the celebration.

The ceremony also featured a video presentation highlighting the school's first 58 days, including photos of students, staff, and memorable moments from the opening months.

Following the presentation, staff members were invited to the stage to unveil the school's official opening plaque.

Vice-Principal Kristin Methot closed the ceremony with remarks reflecting on the significance of the day.

“Before I begin, this is truly a moment in history before us,” said Methot. “We are the first few people here in this building. What a joy, honour and privilege that is for us.”

Methot thanked those who helped make the school possible and spoke of the future that lies ahead for Turtle Island.

“It is the beginning of a shared journey,” she said. “This school stands as a space for every child to feel valued and inspired to grow. Together we will honour the past, celebrate the present, and live with hope toward the future. Thank you.”