Contact

Kihew Waciston Cree Immersion School

Message from Principal

Once again I say “Tanisi!” nitotemak, parents, Elders, and community members of Onion Lake Cree Nation ekwa mina “ninanaskomon” for being given the opportunity to be your principal in this landbase and language school we call “Kihew Waciston”.

The ultimate aim of the Cree Immersion language program in Onion Lake Cree Nation is to develop our children’s ability so they may fulfill their own aspirations, thereby making a positive contribution to their community and to our society, self-identity and pride correlates to achievement and success.

It is therefore appropriate that parents, Elders, community members, and educator’s have input into the development of the language program.  Therefore, developers of first nation language and culture programs must draw resources available from the community, elders, parents and other community agencies.  If you are aware of resource people, we would benefit from that we can utilize here at the language development program please feel free to come and discuss it with us.

The Cree Language Immersion program is intended primarily for community children, but does not exclude youth from other communities.  This program also provides opportunities for parents who want to learn the cree language and traditional teachings.

Contemporary educators must look to the source – Elders, our traditional educators – to determine the cultural content.

One thing is certain, the loss of language within all First Nations is alarming and the Onion Lake Cree are concerned about the future as a distinct people.  Thank you for your continuing support of this program.  You as parents/caregivers are more than welcomed to come and visit our school and join our morning assembly to feel the sense of belonging.   Your commitment to our culture and language will help keep our community strong.  Ay hay.

Yours truly

Mrs Marilyn MacDonald – Principal