September 18, 2026Rooted in Respect: Introducing the Aberdeen Hall Trail System

"Learning takes patience and time. And when people trust each other, hold each other accountable, and support each other, meaningful work is accomplished." 
Heather Nolan Wood, Deputy Head and High School Principal

Sometimes the most meaningful goals take time, collaboration, and a willingness to do things the right way rather than the quick way. Over two years ago, a vision was set in motion: to create an outdoor trail system that could be shared by our entire community, from our youngest Preschoolers to our High School Outdoor Education students.

From its inception, we knew a primary focus would be ensuring this project was approached with deep respect, acknowledging that Aberdeen Hall rests on the unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan People.

To guide us, a dedicated team connected with members of the Sncewips Heritage Museum (pronounced sen-ch'a-weeps) in West Kelowna. Over the past two years, this initiative grew into a reciprocal partnership. We invited members of the museum to Aberdeen to meet us and get to know a bit about our school. We shared our vision and sought their honest feedback and we listened closely. We then visited the museum, heard and reflected on Indigenous stories (captíkʷɬ) and history that they shared and we then asked permission to share those narratives. They translated our school values and allowed us to share regional animals and plants with stories that represent these concepts throughout the trail. We provided honorariums to respect their time, knowledge, and expertise. 

Call to Action #62 of the Truth and Reconciliation Report calls on educational institutions to teach Indigenous history, treaties, and the legacy of residential schools. While covering this curriculum is essential, we wanted to do more. We aimed to embrace the truest spirit of reconciliation: building student capacity for intercultural understanding, empathy, and mutual respect. 

When our students walk these paths, they will not just be getting fresh air or exercising, they will be engaging with land stewardship, indigenous storytelling, and shared values.

In a world where diversity matters and inclusion is paramount, developing mutual respect for different perspectives is essential. The new trail system stands as a physical reminder of what happens when a community works hard, takes on meaningful tasks, and supports one another.

We are proud to share that this cross-divisional goal has officially been achieved and we invite our entire community to celebrate this milestone with us as we officially open the trails.

Date: Tuesday, September 29
Event: Full-School Assembly, Official Trail Opening, and Welcome Ceremony
Special Guests: Members of the Sncewips Heritage Museum and Aberdeen Hall parents

We look forward to walking these paths together and continuing the important learning ahead.

Special Thanks

This initiative brought together voices and hands from every corner of our campus:

Student Artistry: The trail artwork features original pieces created by students from Grades 5 through 12.
Trail Mapping & Build: Mr. Signoroni and Mr. Derek Cutler mapped out the physical trails, while Outdoor Education students worked alongside faculty to prep the site.
Cross-Divisional Teamwork: Faculty and leadership collaborated across divisions on everything from museum visits to signage and post installation.

Special recognition goes to High School teacher Mrs. Bradie Dickson, whose vision, dedication, and leadership were instrumental in nurturing this partnership with Sncewips Heritage Museum  and bringing the expanded scope of this project to life.