Moncton’s new west end school now has a name.

It will be called Wabanaki School when it opens in September.

The Anglophone East School District Education Council selected the name after a process that involved consulting with the province’s 15 Indigenous communities.

The naming committee consisted of staff from the school district, including the Indigenous Education Team elder-in-residence Donna Augustine, and local community members.

It was the only name presented to the minister for approval as per the process outlined in Policy 409 (multi-year school infrastructure planning).

The name Wabanaki means ‘People of the Dawn.’

“It reflects a hopeful and inclusive spirit that represents both our region and our resilient community. This name is a symbol of our collective journey towards a brighter future and our dedication to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all students,” says Superintendent Randolph MacLEAN.

The almost $47.8 million school will accommodate 783 grade 6 to 8 students.  It includes a cafeteria, library, music room, performing arts room, gymnasiums and space for technology.

It was originally designed to be a kindergarten to grade 8 school to replace Bessborough and Hillcrest schools.