The District of Sooke and Sooke School District (SD62) share more than just a name.
The two organizations have announced the renewal of their ongoing partnership, cemented in the Protocol on Cooperation and Partnership document, which reinforces their shared commitment to collaboration for the benefit of students, families and the wider community.
The document was signed on June 25 by Sooke Mayor Maja Tait and SD62 board chair Amanda Dowhy. The agreement outlines and formalizes the continued commitment by both organizations to work together on matters of mutual interest. These include land-use planning, safety, recreation and long-term community development.
“We recognize that strong schools and strong communities go hand in hand,” said Tait. “This protocol affirms our dedication to open communication, coordinated planning and shared solutions that support the success and well-being of all residents – especially our youth.”
The objectives outlined in the agreement include promoting the interests of both the district and SD62 in the provincial context, discussing and responding to policy matters affecting local education and municipal services, and advancing proactive, cooperative approaches to policies or initiatives with community-wide impacts.
The district and SD62 have also announced they will collaborate on joint initiatives to address community needs, ensuring aligned responses to the evolving needs of Sooke residents.
“Our renewed partnership protocol is rooted in respect and shared purpose,” said Dowhy. “It provides a framework for continued cooperation as our region grows and as we work to create the best possible learning and living environment for families in Sooke.”
The document also outlines a meeting structure, detailing the format of annual meetings between the SD62 board and Sooke council, semi-annual meetings between the mayor and board chair, and quarterly staff-level meetings.
The agreement will remain in effect for four years unless amended to support long-term alignment between the organizations as they continue to grow and serve the Sooke community.
