Ottawa school becomes first in Canada named after former PM Brian Mulroney A new elementary school in Ottawa's east end has become the first in Canada to be named after former prime minister Brian Mulroney, with his family attending the official opening. Former prime minister Brian Mulroney's family attended an inauguration ceremony in Ottawa on Wednesday to unveil a school named in his honour. The brand-new elementary school in Ottawa's east end is the first in Canada to be named after Canada's 18th prime minister, according to the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB). Brian Mulroney's wife, Mila Mulroney, and all four of his children attended the ribbon-cutting event. The family celebrated the opening of the new Ottawa school in his honour, and CTV's Peter Szperling reported from the scene. Thank you very much and for honoring our family this way, Mila said before a packed school assembly. According to the OCDSB, the school welcomed close to 700 students in September.It was an honour to know that this was happening, his son, Ben Mulroney, told CTV News Ottawa. To see the impact on the beginning of their education, to know that all these kids will have such meaningful memories from the Brian Mulroney Elementary School. It was deeply impactful. Mulroney served as prime minister from 1984 to 1993 and passed away on Feb. 29, 2024.Education Minister Praises Mulroney's LegacyThe school opening marks a lasting tribute to his legacy in the nation's capital. Ontario's Education Minister Paul Calandra praised Mulroney's contribution to the country. Somebody who helped Canadians understand that not only could we compete with anybody, but that we had so much to be proud of as a country, Calandra said.The OCDSB has previously named seven schools after Canadian prime ministers and governor generals, and schools after Winston Churchill, Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth II, according to the board. The school is located near Mer Bleue at 700 Spring Valley Dr. The ceremony drew attention from local media and the community, with the Mulroney family expressing gratitude for the honour. The school's naming is a significant recognition of Mulroney's service and his connection to Ottawa.School Serves as Permanent Reminder of ImpactAs the first school in Canada named after Brian Mulroney, it stands as a permanent reminder of his time in office and his impact on Canadian society. The family's presence at the opening underscored the personal significance of the tribute.