Director of Education

Greetings and Introduction

Tansi, Greetings to the Elders, community members, and youth. As we approach the change in season, we also embrace a fresh perspective on our goals and objectives for Ahtahkakoop Education. Our community is renowned for its leadership, and it is with this legacy that the Education Board, Administration, and I address the challenges of student retention and success, community training needs, and parental involvement. A strong focus on Cree Language and Culture guides our efforts. Organizational Vision and Support with the support of all stakeholders and Elders, our vision is to place education at the forefront, ensuring our school flourishes with graduating students. In July 2024, community leadership gathered to set action plans. Here are the strategic plans and actions for the 2024-2025 school year:

Parental Engagement

Incentives for Parents: Programs to encourage parents to support their children’s class attendance. Incentives for Students: Student allowances to motivate them to stay in classes. Mental Health Supports: Availability of in-house therapists.

Enhancing Language and Culture

Teaching Treaties in the Classroom: Implementation of an enhanced Elders program. Enhanced Language Programs: Offered in the Schoo, Head Start, and Day Care Centre. Adult Education Programming: Available at the Shell Lake Training Centre

Achievements and Observations

The school has increased extra-curricular activities with a cultural component, leading to a rise in Cree identity and language proficiency and a decrease in youth criminal activity. This shift towards positive and happy lifestyles is attributed to enhanced youth programming. Parental support remains a crucial element for student success. We encourage parents to honor their role in supporting their children, as collaboration between school and home is essential for student achievement.

Support from Treaty Six Education Council (TSEC)

TSEC has provided second-level services to the school, addressing four key educational needs alongside language and culture programming: student retention, early learning, math, and literacy. These services include math literacy consultants supporting teachers and students, resources for all areas, and programs for early learning. These services have been well received and greatly benefit our school.

The road to a better life for Canada's Aboriginal people begins with a good education" (Cowley, 2006). Achieving this requires our community to work together, ensuring that our children attend school every day. Ekosi

Administration Staff

Shaun Sasakamoose

Principal

shaun.sasakamoose@tsec.ca

Jamee-lee Watson

Vice Principal

jamee.watson@tsec.ca

Mona Brass

Vice Principal / Student Services Coordinator

mona.brass@tsec.ca

Peggy Ahenakew

Administrative Assistant

peggy.ahenakew@tsec.ca