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ᒋᓵᓰᐲ

Youth Education in Chisasibi

Cree School Board Highlights 2022-2023
August 15, 2023Eeyou Education Blog

Welcome to the Cree School Board’s journey of milestones and achievements in the year of 2022-2023. As we reflect on this incredible time, we are pleased to share a collection of stories that demonstrate our dedication to Eeyou education, empowerment, and diversity. From empowering our Cree families and continuing our iiyiyiu education journey to PSSS Conference highlights, the inspirational impact on traditional teachings and the successful launch of the Bully Free program in our classrooms, join us as we celebrate the progress made in shaping a brighter future for our students and communities.

Protecting our Education in the Face of Forest Fires

In these rapidly changing conditions surrounding forest fires and smoke, we want to emphasize to all parents and employees the importance of staying informed and following local recommendations, while also trusting your local public safety.

Preparing You to Become Teachers in Your Community
April 12, 2023Eeyou Education Blog

Extended deadline to April 21, 2023
Cree School Board’s Department of Professional Education, in partnership of McGill University’s Office of First Nations and Inuit Education, is excited to announce that three teacher programs are now open!

Upcoming Events

Elected

School Commissioner

Robin Pachanos, ()


School Committee

School Years: 2022-2023, 2023-2024, 2024-2025
(Updated June 21, 2023)
  • Leigh-Ann Gates, Chairperson
  • Mabel Matches, Vice-Chairperson
  • Edward Bearskin
  • Dolores Ottereyes Tapiatic
  • Melanie Lameboy
  • Daniel Pachanos
  • Kelly Pepabano,  Band Representative
  • Mina Bearskin Fireman, Elder Representative

Looking for Adult Education in Chisasibi? Click here.

Vision

If you believe with your heart, you will succeed! 

Mission

Our mission is to help each and every student reach their full potential in becoming a responsible and productive citizen while acknowledging, promoting and maintaining Cree culture. In this way we empower the youth of “Eeyou Istchee” to embrace the challenges of the 21st century.

Core Values

  • Accountability
  • Respect
  • Teamwork

About Chisasibi

Chisasibi, the most northern road-accessible of our communities, is home to more than 5,000 people, native and non-native. The community sits on the south shore of La Grande River, having relocated from Fort George Island in 1981 after the James Bay hydro-electric project resulted in threatening erosion.

Chisasibi Emergency Contacts

  • Medical Emergency: 819-855-2844
  • Police: 819-855-2882
  • Fire: 819-855-2911

History of Education in Chisasibi

Children - and many from neighbouring Cree communities - attended one of two residential schools in Fort George following their establishment in the 1930s. The schools offered education to Grade 6; after Grade 6, students were sent to residential schools in the south. 

The Catholic residential school closed in 1952, and in 1969, the federal government assumed operation of the Anglican residential school, converting a classroom block into Sand Park Elementary Day School in 1971 and, a year later, organizing local high school education.

In 1975, the residential school closed permanently when the Cree School Board was given authority over education of Crees in their territory. 

Students then attended Waapinichihkush Elementary School for Kindergarten to Grade 6; the high school, James Bay Eeyou School, was built in 1980.