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House Diversity

New trends in House staffing
This September, several staff members took on new roles as Assistant House Directors across campus. A few taking over what had previously been male designated roles in boys’ Houses.  A conversation with Carly Haggard AHD Ripley’s, Chelsea Russell AHD Lonsdale’s, Mariel Solsberg AHD Lake’s and Eric Venables AHD Stanton, brought out some convincing evidence that it is important to run residences with diverse leadership.

Mr. Venables, whose experience living in boarding covers eight years and four Houses, feels that his time at Stanton has helped him grow as an educator, “We are in education through relationship. At Shawnigan, this goes well beyond the bounds of the classroom, sports or co-curricular activities – it continues in the House. Having a diverse group of adults on hand to cope with concerns that arise outside the timetable offers students a number of mature individuals to connect with.”

When asked what he brings to Stanton, Mr. Venables says, “Consistency and reliability.” Mrs. Russell believes she brings a nurturing, emotive side into Lonsdale’s. “Whatever my strengths are, it’s my partnership with the House Director that fosters a family approach and a united front to carefully consider the emotional and intellectual needs of our students.”

Ms Haggard reports that the boys in Ripley’s are very respectful. “Being female just adds to the dynamic of the House. Kids don’t care how we identify, as long as they feel cared for.” As for moving a female AHD into Ripley’s, she says, “We never give students enough credit for how resilient and adaptable they can be.”

“I believe our House teams are strong because of the compliments in character between leading roles. Having a female in a male dorm and vice versa can create an important balance that more accurately reflects our community, as well as a reinforcing of awareness of different energies in the House,” says Ms Solsberg. “When students have varying types of leaders within a House setting, it benefits their development and provides a more supportive and nurturing environment.”

All four agreed that inviting women to apply for Assistant positions in the boys’ houses this year gave a strong message to our female students: equal roles and equal opportunities are available at Shawnigan and should be available everywhere.

“In hiring practice at the School,” the Headmaster insists, “. . . it is the best person for each job, period.” Indeed, everyone here is excited to see Houses on campus leading with diverse experience and perspectives, knowing that education and understanding will naturally follow.

Shawnigan Lake School is adhering to all COVID-19 guidelines released by the BC Ministries of Health and Education, including those regarding learning cohorts, physical distancing and mask-wearing when appropriate.
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We acknowledge with respect the Coast Salish Peoples on whose traditional lands and waterways we live, learn and play. We are grateful for the opportunity to share in this beautiful region, and we aspire to healthy and respectful relationships with those who have lived on and cared for these lands for millennia.