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The Untold Story of Canada’s Black Battalion: A Legacy of Sacrifice and Resilience

Posted on 7/03/20247/03/2024Categories Uncategorized

Imagining leads to empathy, empathy leads to action, and action leads to change. The future begins here. - Jade O’Keeffe As we conclude Black History Month, we wanted to share another powerful discussion we heard in Chapel. One of our staff members, Jade O’Keeffe (LCS Farm Support and Curricular Experiences Coordinator) shared a deeply personal and impactful story that brought to light her family's history that has been waiting to be told for over 100 years. In her address, Jade introduced us to her great-grandfather, George Dixon, and shed light on the contributions made by him and 600 other Black men from Canada, the Caribbean, and the U.S. during the First World War. The story of the No. 2 Construction Battalion, Canada’s first and only all-Black battalion, is one of resilience, courage, and sacrifice. Jade transported us back in time to a pivotal moment in history, where Black Canadians fought…

Exploring Black Joy in the Outdoors: A Reflection for Black History Month

Posted on 9/02/20247/03/2024Categories Uncategorized

Throughout the month of February (Black History Month), our students will explore the history and legacies of black Canadians in their classrooms, in their Houses, and in Chapel. This week, we heard from one of our Associate Faculty members, Alecia Golding, who shared her journey and reflections on Black History Month, particularly within her role in the outdoor education industry. Through her address, Alecia invited us to explore the intersection of race, identity, and the transformative power of nature. Read Alecia’s talk: My relationship with Black History Month has always been a complicated one. I often end up dreading this month for the extra attention it causes on something that I haven’t had much pride in but my journey through healing that has come directly from the outdoors. Now I believe I come across as someone who knows their stuff about OE and I love when I get called…

Lakefield College School Launches Renovation Project for Ryder House with Generous Ryder Family Gift

Posted on 21/08/2023Categories Uncategorized

Lakefield College School is thrilled to announce the commencement of a Ryder House renovation project that will further elevate the campus living experience for its students. The extension is made possible by a generous gift from the Ryder Family and is named in honour of Florence Ryder—mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. As part of LCS's strategic plan, the revitalization and enhancement of the residential houses stand at the forefront of the Community First pillar. This initiative aims to provide an enriched environment that promotes camaraderie, collaboration, and personal growth among boarding and day students, advisors, heads of house, assistant heads of house, and the broader community. Over the years, LCS has continually invested in improving its campus facilities, including the construction and renovation of several residences. The latest milestone in this journey is the transformation of Ryder House, a project fueled by the exceptional support of the Ryder Family. The Ryder…