05/10/2026
No food pictures but something super important here in our community. The petition is available to sign here at the shop.
Our little school needs our voices right now. 💔
A.J. Elliott Elementary is facing a proposed reduction of 0.6 teaching staff for the 2026–2027 school year.
On paper, that may sound small. In a tiny rural school with only 22 projected students across eight grade levels, it is anything but small.
This reduction would mean that our current two-room school would effectively function as a one-room K–7 school much of the time, placing an enormous strain on students, staff, and the overall learning environment.
This reduction would impact:
•student learning and support
•classroom safety and stability
•literacy and numeracy intervention
•behavioural and emotional support
•extracurricular opportunities like Maker Club, cross-country, track and field, and science fair
• french classes
• outdoor/survival education
•staff sustainability and burnout
•and ultimately the long-term health of our school community
Small schools cannot absorb cuts the way larger schools can.
At A.J. Elliott, teachers are more than teachers. They are mentors, safe adults, coaches, aunties, and trusted community members woven into the daily lives of our children. Our school is not simply a building where curriculum is delivered, it is the heartbeat of our community.
And unlike larger communities, there is no simple alternative for families here. For many children, attending another school would mean long ferry commutes and extended days away from home at a very young age.
We are asking the Board of Education to reconsider this staffing reduction and recognize the unique realities of small rural schools.
Please take a moment to read and sign our petition. Our children matter and so do our voices.
The petition can be signed at the Malcolm Island Food Company or by getting in touch with Spencer Châteauvert by text or call!
Please share widely. ❤️