Minutes 1948 to 1951

Woodnorth (Manitoba) Consolidated School #1533 Board Minutes Jan 7, 1948 to Dec 26, 1951

Transcriptions followed by scans of the original Minute Books

1948

School Meeting held Wednesday night January 7, 1948 in the School

Cleland Mitchell and Hugh MacDonald were absent.
Wilson/Priestley that Minutes of last meeting be adopted as read.
The complaint made by John Lansing was discussed thoroughly. Finally a unanimous decision was agreed upon. Moved Priestley/Wilson that we pay John Lansing 50 cents per day per child as authorized in Section 69 subsection (2) of the School Act Book and no more and that he be given the privilege of attending Woodnorth School or Mayville at this price.
Priestley/Wilson that we issue a cheque for $75 to the Woodnorth Rink Co. to cover the School Board’s share pertaining to the cost of dug-out and fence.
Wilson/Priestley As Mr George Gary had previously been interviewed and did not wish to extend his van route , that the Secretary write Mr George Forsyth stating no better van service was in sight for the balance of the present winter.
With no more business to discuss it was moved my Mr Munro that we adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson Secretary Treasurer

School meeting held in the school directly after the Annual Meeting, January 17, 1948

Eddie Hagan took the oath as required by the Public School Act.
Priestley/Wilson that the Minutes of the last meeting be adopted as read.
Mitchell/Wilson that Clifford Priestley be Chairman of the School Board for 1948.
Priestley/Mitchell that Clarence Wilson be Secretary-Treasurer for 1948 at $75 for the year and a raise if many people were given a raise on their transportation.
It was unanimously agreed that E Hagan be a delegate to Trustees Convention if the other Trustees were unable to go.
Priestley/Hagan that the attending delegate be given $25 towards delegates expenses.
C Wilson that we adjourn.
[signed] CRE Priestley, Chairman and W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer.

School meeting held in the School Wednesday night January 28, 1948

Four members present.
Priestley/MacDonald that Minutes of the last meeting be adopted as read.
Considerable discussion took place after the Secretary read a letter from the Cromer Secretary and one from Lambton Secretary in reply to our request for a fee equal to that of correspondence course for Grade IX students.
The main purpose of this meeting was to prepare our estimates for 1948. This was more difficult than usual owing to the fact that we thought we might operate three rooms. However, on phoning Inspector Moore he assured us we did not have sufficient students to qualify for three “teacher-grants”.
Hagan/Priestley that we tender for a van driver to pick up MacDonald’s, Savitzky’s and Hagan’s children. C Wilson made an amendment that we tender for a van driver to pick up Savitzkys and E Hagan as MacDonald was at present satisfied. Some discussion took place. E Hagan said he would interview J Savitzky I the morning and see if a satisfactory arrangement to all concerned could be arranged.
As it was nearing midnight the Secretary moved we adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting held in the School house Monday evening. March 1, 1948

Four members present.
Priestley/Wilson that Minutes of last meeting be adopted as read.
The repairing of the wheels for George Gray’s van was discussed and it was moved Wilson/Mitchell that C Priestley put rubber tires on the remaining three wheels and make all necessary repairs.
Priestley/Hagan that we advertise for a fully qualified teacher to teach Grades VI to X in elusive for fall term of this year @ $1850.
Some of the students having asked C Mitchell for more library books. The Secretary stated $20 was spent yearly on library books. The Secretary not knowing really what this amount of money was buying was instructed to get information on same from Mrs Webster.
The Secretary mentioned that a new hose for the toilet pump was needed and he agreed to look up catalogues and see if a hose could be got.
C Priestley was to interview his dad and find out how Mr Priestley preferred the Board to settle account “labour and rent”.
In conclusion E Hagan gave a very interesting account of the Convention.
Following this C Mitchell made a motion that we adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School Meeting held in the school on Monday March 22, 1948

Four members present.
Priestley/Wilson that Minutes of last meeting be adopted as read.
We discussed a letter from Mr Wurster he bing a teacher at Whitemouth he stated our teacher advertisement had interested him. On phoning his inspector we were informed this was a very capable man having 38 years of experience. He asked for the location of Woodnorth and how far from Winnipeg and if we would consider paying $2000.
Mitchell/MacDonald that the Secretary write to him giving location of Woodnorth, etc. and ask him his age, nationality, whether single or married and references and providing these were suitable to the Board we would consider engaging him at $2000.
Mitchell/Wilson that we shingle the lean-to for Mr Sargent and ask a raise in rent from Mr Priestley and Mr Sargent of $1 per month each in consideration of improvements made and to be made, effective April 1st.
A registered letter was read from Mr G. Forsyth asking for the pick-up of his children when the motor van started. After discussing same, C Priestley agreed to interview Mr Forsyth and offer him 50 cents per day instead of the present 25 and have the same pick-up point. This 50 cents required to have the van go east one mile to pick up the Forsyth children. If route was altered in 1948 the Board decided a half mile north of Forsyth’s would be the pick-up point.
A letter of appreciation from the Secretary of the Junior Red Cross was read thanking the School Board for their generosity in paying hall rent on March 5th.
A letter from the Secretary of Reston School District was read , asking if we would co-operate with them if they decided to hold a Field Day at Reston. The Secretary was asked to contact Mr Moore and the teachers about this.
We talked of advertising for some one to make a cement foundation to put barn on.
We talked of getting the tinsmith out from Virden to repair toilets and cold air pipe on furnace. The Secretary was to look after these two accounts and see Yes Webster if sufficient chemistry material was on hand.
The Secretary moved we adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting held in the School on Monday August 9, 1948

All Trustees present.
Mitchell/Wilson that the Minutes of last meeting be adopted as read.
Mitchell/MacDonald that we advertise for someone to clean the School and pump out the basement and toilets , work to be completed by Saturday August 21st.
The School Board in conjunction with some other men of the district gathered at the barn and the final decision was decided upon as to where the main barn would be placed. The door was to be placed in the south and as near the fence as work permitted. The west side of the barn was to be in line with the school fence running north and south. The Secretary was instructed to get some one if possible to do the cement work and place barn in position and do the necessary repairing as the man who undertook the job thought was required.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting held in the School Monday November 1, 1948

All present.
Wilson/MacDonald that the Minutes of the last meeting be adopted as read.
Mitchell/Hagan that we ask W. Rattray to fix the fence in front of the barn and make a gate at the northeast corner of Park same to be used as a winter van entrance.
Mitchell/Wilson that H MacDonald interview Mr McKellar in regard the snow fence being too high.
Hagan/MacDonald that we put out van tenders for the southwest route and the northwest route, the latter to have a special request for a van driver owing to the fact that this is the second tender advertisement.
C Mitchell agreed to interview George Grey in regards to van driving offering him $5.75 for the last half of winter. If unsuccessful Mr Gray was to b engaged at $5.50 for the full winter.
We had a letter from the Department addressed to H Wilson about transportation. After considerable discussion the Secretary was instructed to write the Department of Education for more definite information./
C Wilson moved we adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting held in the School on Monday November 15, 1948

All Trustees present.
Mitchell/Hagan that Minutes of the last meeting be adopted as read.
Mitchell/Wilson that we accept John Harder’s van tender at $6.
Wilson/Hagan that owing to no van tenders being received for what is known as the southwest route that the Secretary notify Mr Gertz, H Cochrane, and H Wilson that they make preparations for the driving of their own children for the coming winter .
Mitchell/MacDonald In regard to H Wilson’s request for transportation pay: after discussing the matter at length for a second time and given same thoughtful consideration from every conceivable angle, a vote was taken same being unanimous. I suggest the Secretary write H Wilson stating the School Board decided that his request be disallowed. Carried
Mitchell/Wilson that C Priestley get one more fire extinguisher, same to be kept in basement.
C Wilson moved we adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

1949

School meeting held in the school on Thursday January 6, 1949

All Trustees present.
Wilson/Hagan that the Minutes of last meeting be adopted as read.
Mitchell/MacDonald that we get a radio for the school as requested by the Principal Mrs Johnson.
Mitchell/Hagan that we accept H MacDonald’s van tender at $3 per day until Easter.
Correspondence was read and discussed from the Department in regard to H Wilson request for van compensation; also a letter from the Secretary of Manson Consolidated School District relative to the above item. A phone call from Pipestone Consolidated School District was discussed, also the result of a conversation between Virden Consolidated School District Secretary and Wallace Municipal Secretary. As a letter had been sent from the Woodnorth Secretary to the Department and no reply yet received the matter still stands as before.
C Priestley agreed to find out the particulars about wood for sale from W McNeill; about buying the radio, and last but not least, about repairing a toilet bowl.
Mitchell/Hagan that C Priestley & C Wilson be delegates to the annual Trustee Convention. School Secretaries were requested to attend this year, by the Department, in addition to the Trustee delegate.
C Wilson moved we adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

The first meeting of the new School Board was held at C Priestley’s on January 31, 1949

All members present.
Fred Ritchie and Gordon Horn took the oath as required by the School Act.
Mitchell/Horn that Clifford Priestley be Chairman for 1949.
Hagan/Horn that Clarence Wilson be Secretary Treasurer for 1949 at $90 plus $5 for stamps and stationery.
Wilson/Mitchell that the Minutes of the last meeting be adopted as read.
Considerable time was spent in preparing our levy for this year. It was unanimously agreed that a new toilet system be installed this year and that the school be wired. [transcriber’s note – electricity first came to Woodnorth in 1950.]
Horn/Ritchie that C Priestley put up a trough in boy’s toilet.
Mitchell/Hagan that school close at 4 o’clock starting tomorrow, February 1st.
As requested by Mrs Johnson we went to the school. During this interview Mrs Johnson urged the Board to consider paying Miss Blackmore a bonus at the end of June to the amount at least of $55, this being equal to the 5% deduction for T.K.F. She asked that the School Board pump out the toilets early in Spring. Mrs Johnson said she would consider staying for another year if her salary was increased substantially providing Grade XI would consent to use Correspondence Courses. Mrs Johnson wished to send a boys rink to Brandon to attend High School Bonspiel and suggested that the Board contribute to this. Mrs Johnson thought book cupboards should be made, especially in the Junior room. In conclusion, Mrs Johnson suggested we do every thing possible to keep the services of the present caretaker.
Mitchell/Ritchie that the School Board pay the expenses of the boys rink to Brandon over and above what was received from the Rink Co. And the school dance.
C Priestley was instructed to engage his Dad and Mr Rattray to build the book shelves for the teachers as desired by them.
C Priestley that we adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting held in the school on Monday February 14, 1949

All Trustees present.
Ritchie/Hagan that the Minutes of the last meeting be adopted as read.
The School District levy of 1949 was discussed at length and it was the general opinion that the levy would stand as submitted.
Horn/Ritchie that C Priestley install a suitable trough in the boys outside toilet.
Ritchie/Mitchell that we sign a van contract with John Lansing effective January 2, 1949 for the entire year of 1949 @ $1.50 per day. A rider to be attached stating the School District of Woodnorth would not be responsible in case of accident going or returning to school.
Mitchell/Hagan that the Secretary interview Mrs Johnson as to minimum salary expected if she taught Grade XI.
Ritchie/Horn that we donate $15 towards expenses in regard to High School Bonspiel at Brandon.
Horn/Mitchell that we pay George Wilson $15 toward defraying his expenses while at Brandon Bonspiel with the High School boys.
The Secretary was instructed to see Ian Cameron about wood for school and also to get some literature, etc. on proposed new toilet system.
C Priestley moved the meeting adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting held in the School on Wednesday April 13, 1949

Four members present.
Ritchie/Mitchell that Minutes of last meeting be adopted as read.
A letter of appreciation from George Wilson was read regarding $15 cheque given him to help pay expenses to Brandon High School Bonspiel.
In regards to toilet system the Secretary had no new literature etc on hand but found a letter written in July 1947 from Currie School Equipment after their field man had inspected the present system which was read.
Mrs Johnson was present and at this time asked the Board to try hard to get the toilets and the basement pumped out during Easter holidays. She thought if a trough was installed in the boys outside toilet that conditions therein would be much improved and requested thais be done also during Easter holidays. A little gravel put in the holes below swings would be appreciated also. Mrs Johnson stated the school had a lot of entries for the Festival and hoped the Board would see that transportation was arranged.
Mitchell/Horn that C Priestley get a new pump to be paid for by the School District for pumping water from the basement.
Horn/Mitchell that the Secretary asked Reeve Mooney, Councillors McIntosh and Kool and James Cochrane to attend a special meeting in the school on Thursday April 28 at 8 pm to discuss with the Board the possibility of getting some badly needed repair work done on the van road.
Ritchie/Horn that we pay the convention delegate $35 as expenses and that we keep in mind that Miss Blackmore probably should have a bonus at the end of June.
Mrs Johnson also mentioned that the Board should do everything possible to retain the services of Mr Rattray as he was in her mind a first class caretaker.
Ritchie moved that we adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

Approx May 16 (top of page 155 in Minute Book)

Our last meeting was a special meeting with two men from the Currie School Equipment Company present who discussed at length the new improved Currie toilet system.

All Trustees were present.
Ritchie/Horn that Minutes of the previous meeting be adopted as read.
The Currie men thought the best location for the new toilets would be in the east end of the basement. They thought as we complained of having water in the basement on several occasions that it would be very wise to build a platform of two feet or more and place toilets on the platform, there being a high ceiling permitting this. The old toilets were to be filled in.
The Currie men estimated the cost at approximately $915 for material and the School Board was to do the excavating etc under the supervision of them.
It was unanimously agreed that the Board inspect the Virden High School toilet system and if they considered same to meet their approval that a new system would be installed and a cheque on approval for $300 was to be sent to the Currie School Equipment,Winnipeg. The Secretary was to forward the legal description of school property.
C Mitchell we adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting held in the school on June 15, 1949

All Trustees present.
Mitchell/Ritchie that Minutes of last meeting be adopted as read.
Ritchie/Hagan that School operate to and including June 29.
Mitchell/Hagan that Miss Blackmore get a bonus of $75 and W Rattray $25.
Horn/Ritchie that the Secretary get 50 bags of cement same to be stored at Priestley’s Garage.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting held in the School on Monday July 18, 1949

All Trustees present.
Horn/Mitchell that Minutes of last meeting be adopted as read.
A letter from Hugh MacDonald was read requesting a raise in transportation from 25 cents per day to 40 cents per day. The Trustees thought this request should not be granted and the Secretary was to inform Mr MacDonald to this effect.
The possibility of engaging Mr Rattray for another term was dealt with and after considerable discussion it was moved Horn/Mitchell that Mr Rattray be engaged as caretaker of the school at $35 per month and 75 cents an hour for any additional work.
It was decided to open School on August 29th.
A letter from Currie Company dated July 15th stating their men would come direct from Wilcox in a few days was read. The Secretary was instructed to phone Wilcox, Saskatchewan and find out how they were progressing at that point so that we might know more fully when to expect them.
A “Thank-you” message from Miss Blakemore for bonus received was tendered the Trustees by the Secretary.
The meeting adjourned on motion of the Chairman.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting held in the School Monday October 10, 1949

Ritchie/Horn that the Minutes of last meeting be adopted as read.
The main purpose of said meeting was to select two van drivers for the coming winter. George Gray sent in the only tender for the North route and on motion of Horn/Ritchie was accepted at $6 per day. The Northwest route was tendered for by four different parties and for economical reasons only was given to J.D. Greggor at $5 per day on motion of Hagan/Ritchie.
As one of the vans was in bad condition it was decided by the Board that C Priestley and his Dad repair the van putting same in good condition as they saw fit to do.
As the District was being canvassed to secure money for the purpose of repairing the Hall, it was moved by Horn/Ritchie that the School Board donate $100 to this worthy cause.
It was moved by the Chairman as there appeared to be no more business that the meeting adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting held in School on Tuesday November 6, 1949

Horn/Hagan that the Minutes of previous meeting be adopted as read.
Jim MacDonald van tender was read and was accepted on motion of Horn/Mitchell at $3.25 per day to start after the New Year.
It was decided to close School for Xmas vacation on Wednesday 21st or Thursday 22nd as the teachers saw fit. Likewise to re-open on January 3rd. Mrs Johnson was to have an extra day if unable to make suitable connection to be here on the 3rd.
The wiring of the School was also discussed. It was the feeling of the Board owing somewhat to the fact money being none too plentiful that the wiring be not done until Spring at least, thus giving the Board time to have further estimates form other wiring contractors.
With no more business to discuss the meeting adjourned.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

1950

The first meeting of the new School Board was held on Monday January 16, 1950

All Trustees present.
John Lansing was sworn in as a new Trustee.
Ritchie/Horn that C Priestley be Chairman of the School Board for 1950 and that C Wilson be engaged as Secretary, salary to be $90 for the year plus $5 for postage stamps, etc.
Horn/Hagan that Minutes of last meeting be adopted as read. Carried
Mrs Johnson and Miss Dybish were at the meeting for a while. Mrs Johnson strongly advised the Board to ask the Registrar that Woodnorth be made an examination centre in June this year.
Hagan/Lansing that Mrs Johnson and C Wilson write the Registrar to this effect.
Ritchie/Hagan that G Horn be the Woodnorth delegate to Trustee Convention next week; if unable to go that J Lansing be next in line.
Ritchie/Horn that the School board contribute what is necessary towards sending the school boys to Brandon to the High School Bonspiel but suggested that they put on a dance in aid of their expenses.
C Wilson instructed to drop G Mooney a note expressing their appreciation for services rendered regarding the levelling of the skating ice and putting earth around the school etc.
Considerable time and thought was given in preparing the school budget for 1950. Everything possible seemed to be done to lower our budget from 1949 [by]$1000.
With no more business to discuss it was moved by G Horn that the meeting adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting held in the School Monday April 3, 1950

All Trustees were present.
Hagan/Lansing that Minutes of the last meeting be adopted as read.
The Board was discussing the teacher problem and had the matter fairly sized up when they knocked at the door and were invited in.
Mrs Johnson spoke on salary schedule adopted at other points which in her opinion really entitled her automatically to a raise of $75 per year but was willing to stay on a $50 raise providing Grade Six was taught in Junior Room. Miss Dybish said she would remain if a raise of $100 for the year was granted and stated her willingness to teach Grade VI.
The Board was somewhat reluctant at raising salaries but with Grade VI being taught in the Junior Room it did not seem just so bad as we thought we would have an additional grant of from $350 to $500. In the finish it was moved Ritchie/Horn and carried unanimously that we pay these raises which meant Mrs Johnson salary would be $2050 and Miss Dybish $1700.
The teachers thought a banquet in honour of those about to graduate was in order having all the Senior Room present, parents of those children graduating, caretaker and Mrs Rattray, Trustees and their wives, Inspector Thorkelson and his wife, Rev. Moyer and Mrs Moyer, Reeve and Mrs Mooney, MLA R.H. and Mrs Mooney and Mr and Mrs Munro and the Secretary and Mrs C Wilson. Chairman Priestley was to see the Community [Club] and have them sponsor a dance in the Hall that evening. The banquet was to be held in the School.
The Secretary showed where a lot of money was spent on the van sleighs and suggested a good idea might be to sell the old sleighs and purchase two new sets. The Trustees agreed they did require a lot of repairing not only this winter but every winter and they thought if any fall auction sales were close that they might try to dispose of same at such.
Miss Dybish complained of the seats in her room. Possibly this was justified but the Board thought the wiring of the School was one of the must-be’s and decided to leave any additional improvements until this job was done.
C Priestley moved we adjourn.

School meeting held in the School on June 28, 1950

Ritchie/Horn that Minutes of the last meeting be adopted as read.
After discussing the wiring of the School and teacher-age, it was moved Horn/Lansing that Priestley get Lovegrove to do this work and definitely have the work done during the holidays.
The School vans were discussed fully, the cost of keeping these in repair being too high as well as unreliable and for these reasons it was moved Ritchie/Lansing and carried unanimously that C Priestley buy two new wagons and dispose of the present stuff as best he saw fit.
On request of Mrs Johnson that we buy a full row of new seats for this room and put a few of the smaller ones into the Junior Room. It was decided that C Wilson and E Hagan interview Christies when at the Brandon Fair and buy a full row if they had something suitable in stock.
Rattray was to be engaged for the ensuing year by the Secretary.
Moved by Ritchie that we adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School Meeting held in the School on [blank]

All Trustees present.
Ritchie/Hagan that Minutes of the last meeting be adopted as read. Carried
Van transportation was the main purpose of this meeting and it was moved Priestley/Horn that we accept the only two tenders received, Harder’s at $6.50 per day and Currie’s at $5 per day.
A letter was to hand from Mrs Johnson stating she was going to resign at the end of the Fall term. After giving the matter careful consideration the Secretary was instructed to interview Mrs Johnson and have her reconsider or withdraw her resignation. This was done in consideration of parents and children in Senior Room.
Moved by C Priestley that we adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

1951

A short Trustee meeting was held in the School on January 13, 1951, at the close of the Annual Meeting

Ritchie/Hagan moved that Minutes of the previous meeting be adopted as read. Carried
Cle Mitchell took the Oath of Office as required by the School Act.
Ritchie/Horn that Cle Mitchell be Chairman. Carried
Mitchell/Lansing that Ritchie be Vice-President and was to be able to sign School cheques in the absence of the Chairman. Carried
Ritchie/Horn that C Wilson be Secretary for the coming year @ $90.
It was decided that John Lansing be the official delegate to the Trustee Convention and Fred Ritchie alternative. C Wilson expressed his desire to attend and this was granted by the Board.
Lansing/Hagan that we accept MacDonalds’s offer of $3.50 per day and the Secretary was to try and get him to go to Cameron’s gate.

School meeting held at C Wilson’s on February 10, 1951

All Trustees present [except Ritchie ?]
Horn/Lansing that Minutes of last meeting be adopted as read. Carried
Main purpose of this meeting was to prepare new levy for 1951 and settle Currie’s complaint re driving of School Van.
After considerable comment on Currie’s van question the Board finally decided to pay $6 as of January 1st.
The new levy was about as per usual with some items being hard to estimate but by midnight the Board had threshed things out as best they could.Without any desire to create a higher levy they wound up by submitting an estimate of approximate $1000 more than 1950.
Horn/Lansing that C Wilson interview Mrs Johnson and offer on behalf of the Board $8 as a first prize up to three prizes for School Bonspiel.
Hagan/Horn that the Secretary see Mrs Smith re school going to Virden Bonspiel expenses.
Horn/Lansing that Rattray’s bill of $40 for general clean up at the school seemed somewhat high and the Secretary was instructed to see Mr Rattray and try to settle this account for $30, if unable pay $40.
Owing to the lateness of the evening it was unanimous that we adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting held March 23, 1951

All Trustees present.
Hagan/Horn that Minutes of last meeting be adopted as read. Carried
The resignation of both teachers was read also the resignation of van driver J Harder.
After looking over several teacher advertisements along with considerable discussion the Board instructed the Secretary to advertise for two new teachers at a salary of $2250 and $1850.
The van driver problem was talked over and as C Mitchell had previously talked with Harder and Gray (the only ones likely to do it at any price) it was decided to have George Gray as Van driver.
Mrs Johnson having secured books to the extent of $11.25 through the School Board and wishing to take same with her, the Board decided to let Mrs Johnson do so, the price of $6.25 was to be deducted from the $18 which was coming to her in regards to Boys’ Bonspiel expenses which was neglected a year ago.
A request from the teachers for new batteries for School radio was talked over. The Board agreed to replace the radio with new batteries and C Wilson agreed to see to this.
Ritchie/Horn that Mitchell & Hagan look into heating problem and hot lunches.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting held on April 13, 1951

All Trustees present.
Lansing/Horn that Minutes of the last meeting be adopted as read. Carried
Horn/Lansing that the Secretary acknowledge the resignations received from Mrs Johnson and Miss Dybish and also a note of appreciation was to be sent to Mr Coughlan for burning the school grounds.
Several applications were received from teachers in response to the ad in daily Free Press. After considerable discussion of the letters and a telephone call to Mr Colpitts for references (which he spoke highly of Mrs Danylchuk) the Board decided to engage the services of Mr and Mrs Danylchuk from Winnipeg.
The Board at this point broke up the meeting to attend, for a short while, Education Day at the School.
Van driver Currie’s resignation was read and it was moved Ritchie/Lansing that we put out a tender for a Van Driver to drive until such time as a motor van could operate. The Secretary was to try and get Mr McKellar to make school van signs. The Secretary was to advertise discarded van chassis for sale. The Secretary was to write Mr Sinkiw asking him submit a van tender.
C Mitchell and Ed Hagan were to speak to Lacey in regards to proposed new heating system and try to have him come out to the next meeting and talk over the whole thing thoroughly with the School Board.
The Secretary was to try and get some one to clear out the barn.
The meeting adjourned with the intention of holding another at an early date.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

The last meeting was held in the school with Mr Bawdon on hand to discuss with the School Board heating systems with stoker coal and fuel oil. He stated that there was not a very great difference in the cost of installing but consider the cost of running the oil burner would be considerable more, nevertheless he did think the oil burner would require less attention and as a general rule there was less dust but seeing as we had to have a caretaker any way that probably that part was not of vast importance.

Having completed his purpose of being present he left and the Minutes of the last meeting were read and on motion of E Hagan, seconded by F Ritchie were adopted.
The Board discussed Mr Bawdon’s remarks to quite an extent dwelling mostly on the cost of operation of the two different units. In the opinion of the Board the cost of operating the oil burner was too much.
Ritchie/Lansing that we install in the summer holidays a stoker. Carried unanimously.
C Mitchell was instructed to order same.
The Secretary was asked if any discount for van wheels had been given by C Priestley on his account.
Now that the Board had a 2-burner hot plate on hand the possibility of giving some hot refreshments for the coming winter was talked of, the Secretary being instructed to find out from Mrs Johnson which she considered more useful, cups or bowls.
Ritchie/Horn that we adjourn.

School meeting held in the School on June 14, 1951

All the Board present.
Lansing/Ritchie that the Minutes of last meeting be adopted as read. Carried
After discussing the insulation job it was moved Ritchie/Horn that we engage George Cook to do the work and Gordon Horn agreed to see Mr Cook about it.
It was the opinion of the whole Board that the two rooms and hall should be re-decorated after the new heating system was installed and it was moved Hagen/Lansing that the Secretary put out a tender for this work.
With no further use for the coal in the coal bin, it was moved Hagan/Lansing that the Secretary advertise this coal for sale and same to be removed by the purchaser, if any, by July 3rd, said tender to be received not later than June 28.
Fixing fences was discussed and at the conclusion it was moved by Horn/Lansing that we repair the West side and South side. Gordon Horn agreed to see J Smith about doing this and was to see W Forsyth about wire if such was needed.
On Van discussion C Mitchell was to see Mr Carefoot about this.
In regards to School lunches: Ritchie/Hagan moved that the Secretary order five dozen cups and saucers.
Van signs at the Field Day were seen on all vans except Woodnorth. The Secretary agreed to approach Mr McKellar again about them.
Picnic as usual but better than usual was suggested. It was thought sufficient lunch would be on hand that some local outside ball players could be invited, might compete against Woodnorth.
Moved by F Ritchie that we adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting held in the School on July 4, 1951

All members present also Inspector Thorkelson.
Lansing/Hagan that Minutes of the previous meeting be adopted as read. Carried
Mr Thorkelson was present for the purpose of checking the School library prior to the Board making a final decision as to whether or not they would lift the books which were now at the Station from the Grolier Society. Mr Thorkelson comments after investigating was as follows: Many of the books in the library at present while in fairly good condition are out-dated, in several cases by 20 years. He thought the Board was receiving real good value for money invested in the set from the Grolier Society. He thought valuable information could be derived from them and he said he would ask the teachers to use them as much as possible which would encourage the students to use them of their own accord.
After some discussion it was moved Horn/Lansing that we take possession of the books. This motion was carried unanimous.
The Inspector had with him some school ground beautification outlines. This had been in the minds of the Trustees for some time. After a lengthy discussion and a stroll around the School yard it was moved Horn/Hagan that we prepare some ground for trees and shrubs this year.
Moved by Fred Ritchie that we adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting was held in the School on August 2, 1951

Only four Trustees present.
Some time was spent in looking over fences and grounds. The new furnace was also seen and admired.
Two School Van tenders having been received were read and resulted in much discussion. It seemed hard to decide just which to accept as each tender seemed to have advantages and disadvantages over each other and the Trustees wishing to give the ratepayers with children going to school from the South the most satisfaction possible in the line of van service thought best to call a meeting with all concerned present.This was moved by Ed Hagan and seconded by John Lansing and Carried by all present.
Moved by G Horn that we adjourn.

School meeting held in the School August 6, 1951

Several ratepayers living south of the track present to discuss van tenders received for the transportation of their pupils. After the Chairman showed by a Board diagram the only feasible route to be taken it was argued by all present that J Chacun’s van tender will be the most satisfactory.
Ritchie/Hagan that we accept J Chacun’s tender at seven dollars per day.
Ritchie/Hagan that we advertise for van driver for the North route and also for the North-west route.
Two tenders were received for decorating of the school: W Rattray @$65, Smiths @ 90 cents an hour.
Ritchie/Lansing that we accept the Smith tender.
Moved by Hagan that we adjourn.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting held in the Manse on October 16, 1951

Three Trustees present.
Horn/Lansing that the Minutes of previous meeting be adopted as read. Carried
W. McNeill’s request for some assistance relative to Kenny staying in town from Monday morning till Friday evening was discussed. Eventually, it was moved Horn/Lansing that the School Board pay 50 cents a day for assistance owing to the fact that it seemed almost impossible to pick Kenny up by the school van.
The tendering of vans was given consideration with the result the Board decided to tender for four van routes. The mover of this motion was Gordon Horn, seconded by John Lansing.
Our teachers were present and took an active part in the meeting. They asked the Board to consider opening the third classroom. In their opinion they thought we had enough pupils to get a third grant. And the third grant would go quite a way towards paying the salary. As it is they did not have the time to spend as much time as they wished on some of the children nor as much time as the children required.
School lunch was discussed.

School meeting held at the home of C Wilson, 1st or 2nd November, 1951

All Trustees present.
Ritchie/Horn that the Minutes of the last meeting be adopted as read. Carried
The main purpose of this meeting was to select van drivers for the coming winter. We had previously tendered for four routes. Four tenders were received and as luck would have it, one for each route. Such being the case selecting the van drivers was not a very difficult task. The Board decided to accept each as submitted, namely, George Gray @ $8, H Shoemaker @$7 Jim MacDonald @$4 and Chacun @$5.
A letter from the Dept of Education was read congratulating the Board for improvements made to the school grounds, also for the installation of the new heating unit.
A letter from the Grolier Society was read stating that they were drawing a draft for $116.50 and asked that we arrange for payment of same when received.
The Board talked over the probability of outside pupils attending Woodnorth School should they open the third room. C Wilson was to correspond with a few other Secretaries of neighbouring schools and find out if possible such information.
W McNeill request for greater assistance than the Board had previously offered towards Kenny’s board etc at Lowdons was given thoughtful consideration and any further assistance did not seem the wisest plan in the minds of the Board. The offer on the first request was 50 cents per day.
With no further business to be dealt with Fred moved we adjourn.

November 27, 1951 School meeting held in the school

Ritchie/Horn that the Minutes of the previous meeting be adopted as read. Carried
The possibility of getting additional pupils from surrounding school districts should we open the third room was discussed. The Secretary was instructed to write to the Secretaries of Mayville, Cromer, Boss Hill, Elm Valley, and Hillview in this respect.
The Secretary was instructed to issue a cheque to Wm McNeill re assistance for Kenny at the rate of 50 cents per day prior to the commencement of H Shoemaker van service.
Lunches were discussed and C Wilson and G Horn were to see the teachers about the lunches.
The Secretary was to see the teachers re a new found attachment and order per their request.
The meeting was adjourned on motion of Ritchie.
[signed] W.C. Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer

School meeting held at C Wilson’s December 26, 1951

Trustees present were Fred Ritchie, G Horn, J Lansing and C Mitchell [in addition to host Clarence Wilson]
Ritchie/Lansing that the Minutes of the previous meeting be adopted as read. Carried
Ritchie/Horn that School start following the Xmas holidays on January 3rd.
The possibility of opening the third room was discussed and G Horn moved that we advertise for a third teacher, this being seconded by Fred Ritchie. This was carried unanimously, salary being $1850 and the grades to be taught by the third teacher was to be stated by Inspector Thorkelson. Later by telephone this was to be 5,6,7,& 8.
The starting of the horse vans were considered but thought not advisable owing to the excellent road condition for motor vehicle. Regret was expressed in regard to G. Gray having horses to feed daily in order to be prepared for horse van service on short notice.
The School Board having purchased a second hand school van for $10 from Virden School District instructed the Secretary to issue a cheque to cover this account.
J Chacun van driver having failed to carry out service as it should be was to be notified by the Secretary that deductions would be made, unless he paid those who carried out obligations.

Minutes of Regular Meeetings end here on page 181 with the meeting of December 26, 1951. The last couple of sentences from this meeting are recorded at the bottom of page 180.

From the end of the Minute book on Page 200 they started to record the Minutes of the Annual General Meetings starting with the meeting of July 18, 1938. These Minutes end on pages 182 & 183 with the annual meeting of January 15, 1949. The Annual General Meetings are posted in a separate section of this website but I think they will be more useful if placed within in each year of the Minutes so I will move them when time permits. It is at the Annual Meetings where new Trustees are nominated and elected.

pamela forsyth

genealogy and family history