As September arrives in Fernie, the town comes alive with the energy of back-to-school and the quiet strength of downtown schools. The return of students is more than the start of a new academic year—it’s a reminder of the unique value that schools bring to the heart of a community. Across mountain towns like Fernie, Nelson, Canmore, and Revelstoke, downtown schools do more than educate—they shape safe streets, fuel local businesses, and embody the spirit of community.
With the school year underway, safety is a shared responsibility. Drivers are reminded to stop for school busses with red flashing lights, slow down in school zones, watch for crosswalks, and be alert for children darting across roads or biking to class. Playgrounds and sidewalks are busier than ever—requiring extra care and patience. For families, bus safety is essential: arrive early at stops, wait for buses to fully stop before boarding, and always cross at the front where drivers can see you. These small acts protect our most important citizens—our children.
Schools at the center of a town create natural rhythms of connection. Parents, teachers, and children cross paths with shopkeepers and neighbours every day, weaving strong social ties. In Nelson, Central School’s presence just off Baker Street fosters a downtown where youth are visible, celebrated, and engaged. The same is true in Fernie—where the sight of children in the core reminds us that our community is alive with promise and inclusion.
The presence of schools downtown also brings economic benefits. Families stopping for coffee, students grabbing snacks, and parents running errands all contribute to a thriving local economy. In Canmore, Lawrence Grassi Middle School drives steady activity for local businesses year-round. Here in Fernie, the daily hum of school life sustains shops and services in ways that seasonal tourism alone cannot.
Beyond economics and logistics, downtown schools give a town its soul. They represent continuity and hope—a shared investment in the future. Revelstoke Secondary School stands as a source of pride and cultural identity for its community. In Fernie, our schools remind us daily of the joy, energy, and creativity that youth bring. They are living proof that a community’s spirit thrives when education is woven into the fabric of everyday life.
Communities with downtown schools consistently report stronger connections, more resilient economies, and a deeper sense of belonging. Fernie is no different. As we celebrate the return of students this fall, let’s embrace not only the importance of road, playground, and bus safety but also the broader value of having schools at the heart of our town.
The laughter, energy, and curiosity of children are not just signs of another school year—they are reminders of Fernie’s future. In their footsteps lies the quiet strength of our community.
