The Vancouver Sun, January 23, 1922
CHANGE IN BOYS’ SCHOOL IS DENIED
Child welfare association takes action on rumour of removal of D.B. Brankin
Is the Provincial Government planning to supplant D.B. Brankin as head of the Boys' Industrial School?
Current rumour has it that this institution is to be transferred from the Attorney-General's Department to the Provincial Secretary's Department and placed under the administration of a member of the medical profession. The theory back of this proposed change is that the problem of correction is a medical one.
In his two years as superintendent of the institution Mr. Brankin has introduced many reforms in the management of the school and in the handling of the boys. These innovations, especially the "honor system" of control, which has eliminated a large number of the guards and has produced a much better spirit among the youngsters, have been widely approved.
Has local support
John Edward Carpenter, president of the Child Welfare Association, when asked about the rumour said that it had reached him also and that he promptly wired to Victoria for confirmation.
"I have received an answer from the attorney-general stating that there is nothing to it." said Mr. Carpenter, "and I sincerely hope that this is right, as there would certainly be great disappointment in child welfare circles if his authority were to be interfered with.
"If anybody else were appointed superintendent our executive would promptly meet and probably call a mass meeting of protest. Mr. Brankin has done good work and nobody who has the welfare of the boys at heart could consider any change that would affect the influence Mr. Brankin has over them."