Congratulations once more Dr. Rita Cox; Queen Victoria Public School has been renamed

BY MICHAEL THOMAS

After months of consultation work with the Committee composed of students, staff, parents/guardians, members of the Black Student Success Committee, the Student Leadership Team, Queen Victoria school council members, and Parkdale community, members finally voted to rename Queen Victoria Public School to Dr. Rita Cox Public School and Kina Minogok (All Things Grow Well Together).

The suggestion to rename the school was brought forward to the Board of Trustees in May 2021, and the process was guided by TDSB policy and procedure (P047 and PR592). In December, the School Naming Committee launched a call for submissions for potential new names to replace Queen Victoria PS.

The community for consideration submitted over 150 names, and a shortlist was presented for feedback to the community during a town hall in February 2022.

The TBS, Dr. Debbie Donsky, and Ms. Darlene Jones Superintendent of Education had this to say, “We want to thank each one of you for your participation and interest in the renaming process, including those who came to the town hall to advocate for their choice of a new name. Your dedication to ensuring the new name reflects the values of the school and the broader community has been a learning experience for all involved.”

I spoke with Dr. Rita Cox about her numerous achievements, especially this one and what it means to her.

I asked the Canadian Caribbean storytelling icon how it feels to have a school named after her too. She answered, “I am honoured. I am humbled. When I saw it, I got a little weak-kneed, because no matter what, you never achieve anything alone.” 

Cox wanted the community to know that she is very grateful for their recognition of her work, and for rewarding her by bestowing this great honour upon her.

Cox, who has always worked with the children, said, “I have worked with this particular school for over 20 years, so I have known all the children there.”

She highlighted that she has seen three generations of children who grew up to be productive members of the community, and what gives her satisfaction is knowing that she played an important role in their lives.

I could not resist asking her about her next project? She said, “I am a founding member of The National Foundation of Black Storytellers and we are celebrating over 40 years soon.”

Just as expected, Cox said that she is active in many ways and still makes appearances virtually and in-person when necessary, and she is also on the board of her church.

“I have been involved nationally, internationally, and always with my Caribbean community as well, so I have got the benefits of it all. I feel so fortunate when I look and see how the community has developed.”

Cox who came from humble beginnings in Trinidad and Tobago migrated here and like they say “The rest is history,” but in her case has made history internationally.

We join with all your well wishers in saying congratulations to you Dr. Cox on a job well done.