It might have been prudent, even wise for the current Marketing 12 Class at Stanley Humphries Secondary School to have extended their survey from the present student and staff (700?) at SHSS before deciding to change the logo, slogan and team name of SHSS.
Over the past 65 years (1951 to 2015) some 7,000 (approximately) students have graduated from SHSS, many of whom are still residing in Castlegar. Surely given modern technology and marketing strategems an attempt would have been made to receive input from these individuals.
Being the only full secondary school in Castlegar and immediate area SHSS has represented the end point of K to 12 education for local students. The school has established a proud and vibrant history and tradition.
The three themes emerging from current student input: strong academics, school pride and uniqueness are not new but simply a reflection and continuation of what SHSS has been for the past 65 years.
In fact SHSS was known as a triple-A school with depth and diversity in Academics, the Arts and Athletics. A perusal of SHSS yearbooks records the history of academic achievement, the demonstrated talent of students in band and choral groups, of actors, dancers and singers in musical and drama performances and the prowess of athletes in all sports at the local, regional and provincial level. Rockers! Now there’s uniqueness!
Finally, if there is to be a change of logo, slogan and mascot perhaps the transformation should also include the re-naming of the school. Stanley Humphries: Who was he anyway? Well he was the chairman of the school board (SD No. 9) who was instrumental in having the school built. I’m sure his daughter, Mrs. Betty Clark, now in her 90s, would be delighted to have his name removed from the learning institution he so determinedly promoted for the secondary education of Castlegar youth.
Above all I’m very sure that all those grads/students wish fervently to maintain the original logo, slogan and mascot of SHSS.
CARPE DIEM.
Lachlan C. Farrell
Vice-principal – Principal
Stanley Humphries Secondary School
1970–85
