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Youth Education in Wemindji

October 25, 2024Eeyou Education Blog

The Cree School Board is delighted to announce the commissioners for the communities of Whapmagoostui, Wemindji, and Waskaganish.

  • Christa Bobbish was elected in Whapmagoostui.
  • Gillian Blackned was elected in Wemindji.
  • Kaitlynn Hester-Moses was elected in Waskaganish.

On the photo, left to right: Gillian Blackned, Kaitlynn Hester-Moses, Christa Bobbish.

October 11, 2024Eeyou Education Blog

This year has been filled with inspiring achievements and significant progress in our mission to provide quality education rooted in Eeyou values. From innovative educational programs to community-driven initiatives, we are proud to share the stories that highlight our dedication to empowering students and fostering a supportive learning environment. Join us as we celebrate the milestones and successes that have shaped this academic year, and look forward to continuing our journey of growth and excellence.

October 4, 2024Eeyou Education Blog

[Updated October 4, 2024] We are excited to announce that the Cree School Board's 5th Regional General Assembly will take place in Chisasibi, iiyiyiu aschii, on November 6 and 7, 2024.

News Archives

Upcoming Events

Elected

School Commissioner

Gillian Blackned ()

What does a commissioner do?

School Committee

School Years: 2021-2022, 2022-2023, 2023-2024
(Updated June 21, 2023)
  • Thomas Mark, Chairperson
  • Kerri Ann Hughboy, Vice-Chairperson
  • Arlene Hughboy
  • Sherilyn Linklater
  • Arita Mark
  • Jeannette Shashaweskum
  • Frances Visitor, Elder representative (female)
  • Johnny Mark, Elder representative (male)
  • Rocky Georgekish, Band Representative

Looking for Adult Education in Wemindji? Click here.

Vision

To provide a culturally relevant education that is the unique foundation upon which youth can attain any goal.

Mission

To provide sound curriculum, emotional and social support, and a rich traditional environment which fosters pride and a love for learning in all students.

Core Beliefs

All students have the right to…

  • A safe and nurturing learning environment
  • A school which represents the Cree culture and traditional beliefs
  • Enthusiastic and dedicated teachers and educational staff
  • Opportunities for learning cutting edge, 21st century skills
  • Multiple pathways, programs and avenues for success
  • An education which meets their individual needs

About Wemindji

Wemindji is a Cree community about 1,400 people at the mouth of the Maquatua River on the eastern shore of James Bay. The community is nestled on an inlet among the picturesque Painted Hills Islands. The name Wemindji comes from the Cree for "ochre hills" or wiimin uchii. The people of Wemindji relocated to the current site of the community in 1959 from their original home on Old Factory Island.

Cree Nation of Wemindji

Community Links

Emergency Contacts

  • Medical Emergency: 819-978-0225 then dial 0
  • Police: 819-978-0320
  • Fire: 819-978-3911

History of Education in Wemindji

Maquatua School first opened its doors to students in 1973 under the name Wemindji Day School.  In the late 1980’s a large addition was added to the original building.  A local contest was held to rename the building.  MaquatuaEeyou School was the winning entry and references the location of the school on the Maquatua River. 

In 2016 Wemindi celebrated the opening of an elementary school to serve the student population from Pre-K to Grade 6 and so MaquatuaEeyou School now serves only secondary students.

Joy Ottereyes Rainbow Memorial School opened in August 2016, with an official inauguration in April of the following year.

The school was named after a Grade 6 student, Joy Ottereyes, who passed away suddenly in 2010 as the result of an allergic reaction. Joy would have graduated the year the school named for her opened. The "Rainbow" was added to the school's name because Joy loved rainbows and would often sign her name with a rainbow at the end of it.