The newest high school in Langdon has been named Horseshoe Crossing High School.
The Board of Trustees of Rocky View Schools (RVS) approved the name at their Feb. 15 meeting.
“The Board is excited to select a name symbolizing Langdon’s community and history while paying homage to Langdon’s emblem, an upside-down horseshoe,” said Board Chair, Fiona Gilbert. “The horseshoe represents both good fortune and generosity of spirit, two characteristics we wish for this new school community.”
“Horseshoe” mirrors the town’s geography, notably its horseshoe-shaped railway turnaround, stated RVS, and reflects the “good luck town” nickname of Langdon.
The school’s location near landmarks like the “Iron Horse” Fields and Deadhorse Road underscores the region’s rich equestrian and railway heritage.
“Crossing” symbolizes the historic paths of the Blackfoot people, who camped in and around the area of Langdon in their travels and also represents the journey students undertake toward their future.
“Langdon is known as the Good Luck Town and has been called that for over 125 years,” stated Ward 2 Trustee, Shelley Kinley. “In the past, driving into town there was a sign by Langdon Park called Langdon the Good Luck Town with the upside down horseshoe at the centre of the sign. Some say horseshoes should only be pointed up to hold in the good luck, however an inverted horseshoe means that the luck will be showered down onto others.”
Kinley said it was an honour to work with community members to develop a meaningful school name that reflects the history and rural roots of the area.
The name is the result of work done by a Naming Committee established on Dec. 19, 2023. The committee included the local RVS trustee, divisional and school staff, community representatives, parents/guardians and a student. Members of the community were also given the opportunity to suggest potential names to the committee.
Horseshoe Crossing High School became the frontrunner because it received the highest number of votes by the committee.
Superintendent of Schools, Greg Luterbach, said the two names that the committee came forward with have significance to the area, would be easily identifiable with the facility, create a distinct identity, consider prominent community members and the long term impact.
“Naming a new school is the first step in developing a unique school identity,” Luterbach said. “We are excited to see how this new educational community embodies this name and develops its school culture in the coming years.”
The other suggested name was Four Horizons High School, referencing the different communities coming together.
Construction of the school is ongoing. Horseshoe Crossing High School will open for Grades 9-11 in September 2024, with plans to expand to Grade 12 the following year.
