Summary of public feedback report released for École Whitehorse Elementary School project
Press Release
September 9, 2025
The Government of Yukon has released a summary of public feedback report from the April 10, 2025, public engagement on the planned replacement of École Whitehorse Elementary School (ÉWES) at the Takhini Educational Land Reserve.
More than 110 people attended the open house at Takhini Elementary School, including many Takhini residents. Attendees learned about the traffic impact assessment findings, project details, busing and transportation and planned sports infrastructure investments.
In addition to on-site discussions, 160 surveys were submitted, half from Takhini residents. Common themes included the importance of safe active transportation routes, strong support for a large gym in the new school, questions about the site location and interest in more opportunities for dialogue.
The Department of Education is initiating a rezoning process with the City of Whitehorse, which is estimated to take about one year to complete. This process will include an Official Community Plan amendment, a Land Use Master Plan application and a zoning bylaw amendment. The first step of amending the Official Community Plan will require public engagement.
The Government of Yukon thanks all those who shared their ideas and concerns. This feedback will guide the conceptual design phase, address community priorities and help ensure the project aligns with user needs and expectations.
To view the report, visit: https://open.yukon.ca/information/ecole-whitehorse-elementary-school-project
We are grateful to everyone who attended the public engagement and shared their perspectives. Your feedback will help us move towards a safe, modern and inclusive school that reflects the needs and priorities of our youngest Yukoners, their families, and the neighbourhood where it will be built.
Minister of Education Jeanie McLean
Quick facts
- The April 10, 2025, the open house was part of a broader engagement process that began in 2023 to inform planning for Whitehorse-area school infrastructure.
- The open house was promoted via radio and print advertising, social media posts, and direct outreach to partners and stakeholders.
- Relocating ÉWES to Takhini will require a Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Act assessment, which will take place at a later stage in the project.
- The project remains in the early planning phase, with construction anticipated to begin in spring 2027 at the earliest. If construction begins in 2027, the new school could open for the 2030–31 school year.
- Moving ÉWES to Takhini does not prevent the future establishment of a downtown elementary school.
Media contact
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
Laura.Seeley@yukon.ca
Michael Edwards
Communications, Education
867-471-0902
michael.edwards@yukon.ca
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