2015 Northerner Spring Edition

Transcription

FRONTIER SCHOOL DIVISION
SPRING 2015
“As a Division, we
believe parents are
the child’s first and
most important
teachers.”
FSB REPORT
page 4
“Within minutes
of the session, the
sounds of drums
and other instruments reverberated
throughout the
entire room...”
PRESENTATIONS
page 22
“This year,
we selected 10
singers or duets
and four bands to
compete.”
In this edition:
• “The Power of Choice”
• Frontier School Board
Report
• Introducing Reg Klassen
• Reflections from
Ray Derksen
• Conference Opening
and Celebration of
Achievements
• Presentations
• Juried Art Show
STUDENT
PERFORMANCES
page 32
• Student Performances
• Recognition Awards
• N.O.F.I.
Table of Contents
3
“The Power of Choice” 37th Annual
School Committee Conference
4
Frontier School Board Report
14
Introducing Chief Superintendent
Designate Reg Klassen
Reflections from Chief
16 Superintendent
Ray Derksen
20
Conference Opening
& Celebration of
Achievements
22 Presentations
24 Juried Art Show
32 Student Performances
35 Recognition Awards
36 Nikanihk Ohci Foundation Inc.
Frontier Northerner is the publication of the Frontier School Division.
Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor and do not
necessarily reflect the official Division policy. ISS. No. 0288-3832.
Please address all correspondence to: Frontier Northerner c/o Ms. D. Laubmann,
Frontier School Division 30 Speers Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2J 1L9
“The Power of Choice”
37th Annual School Committee Conference – Feb. 11-13, 2015
T
he Annual School Committee Conference is a very
significant and important part of Frontier School
Division. The conference provides school committee
members an opportunity to find out about Divisional
programs, gain insights and ideas, and to share success
and topics important to our communities. It enhances
communication, accountability and planning for the
future.
The chosen theme for 2015 was “The Power of
Choice.” The Frontier School Board believes that
everyone has the collective power to shape the future
of education in Frontier through the choices that we all
make. To assist school committee members a number
of dynamic and thought-provoking speakers presented
information on a variety of topics. Presenters included
Associate Professor from the University of Manitoba
Mr. Niigaanwewidam James Sinclair, motivational
speakers Ms. Willow Sweeney and Mr. Chris Scholl, and
Dr. Marni Brownell from the Manitoba Centre for Health
Policy and the Manitoba Institute of Child Health.
We hope you enjoy reading about the Annual School
Committee Conference. Please contact your local
Trustee or the Division office if you have any questions
or to provide feedback.
*
Agenda at a Glance
Wednesday, Feb. 11
8:45 a.m.
Conference Overview
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Area Advisory Committee Meetings
10:30 a.m. – noon
Presentation (N. James Sinclair)
5:15 p.m. – 10 p.m.
• Conference Opening and Celebration
of Achievements
• Greetings from the province (Minister Bjornson)
• Juried Art Show Opening
• N.O.F.I. Fundraising
• Student Showcases “Frontier Idol and
Frontier Rocks”
Thursday, Feb. 12
8:45 a.m. – 3:15 p.m. • Conference Opening
• Student Showcases “Frontier Idol and
Frontier Rocks”
• Presentation (W. Sweeney)
• Presentation (C. Scholl)
• Partner Information Booths
• Juried Art Show Viewing
Friday, Feb. 13
8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. • Frontier School Board Report
• Introduction of Chief SuperintendentDesignate
• Programs Presentations
• Presentation (Dr. M. Brownell)
• Student Showcase: Frontier Fiddlers, and
the Christina Cater Memorial Square
Dancers
• Conference Closing
Frontier Northerner 3
Frontier School Board Report
A
By Linda Ballantyne
Board Chairperson
s I noted at the opening of our conference this past Oc-
foundation gives the school committee real authority, real responsibility, and a strong voice of local control in the affairs of
the school.
tober our Division, along with the rest of the School Di-
Our Annual School Committee Conference is a celebra-
visions in Manitoba, held a general election for school trustees.
tion of our governance structure. It is a celebration of the fact
Welcome again to all of our new school committee members
that while we are vast and diverse we can still gather together
as well as those of you who are returning. I am also pleased to
unified in purpose. It is this unity of purpose, combined with
introduce to you the Board you have placed your trust in, and
our respect for the diversity of our communities that make us
elected to serve you for the next four years:
uniquely Frontier. We are one and yet we are many.
• Area 1 Trustees
Hilbert Mosiondz and Graeme Montgomery. Hilbert is
from Wabowden and Graeme from South Indian Lake.
As your trustees we have complete commitment to, and respect for, the voice and aspirations of each of the 39 communities that comprise our school division. Our Division is commit-
• Area 2 Trustees
Myself and Howard Sanderson. Howard is from the Rock
Ridge sub-ward for Waterhen.
ted to continually supporting and building the capacity of all
• Area 3 Trustees
Marg Imrie and Tanya Friesen. Marg is from Falcon Lake
and Tanya is from Bissett.
the knowledge and skills of our Governance Support Officers. • Area 4 Trustees
Marion Pearson and Donna Calvert. Marion is Vice-Chairperson of the Board and she is from Cranberry Portage,
and Donna is from Sherridon.
mittees support and training in many different areas. Training is
• Area 5 Trustees
Representing Norway House are Kathleen Ettawacappo
and Darlene Osborne.
that govern the school system.
Our Governance system lies at the heart of our Division and
quality of the staff hired, the unique programs offered, and the
has shaped our identity. It is our unique three-tiered level of
general atmosphere of the school are all areas where you as a
governance that ensures that the distinctive characteristics and
school committee have a direct impact.
aspirations of each of our communities are heard, and that the
wishes of the people are respected.
While most school Divisions in Manitoba held an election
for 10 trustees, this past October our Division conducted an
the people who have stepped forward to serve and support our
local schools. We encourage each of your committees to utilize
Each of your communities have the services of a Governance
Support Officer who has the responsibility to provide your comavailable in areas such as how to function as an effective committee, interviewing potential employees, basic accounting,
and understanding the various pieces of policy and legislation
To a large degree the wisdom, insight and support that a
committee brings to their roles makes the school what it is. The
The fundamental purpose of all the people who have
stepped forward to serve our Division in an elected capacity is
to build a school division that supports learning for all regardless of background or circumstance.
election for over 230 positions. Our governance model is es-
When we talk about learning for all we are talking about pro-
tablished in The Public School Act of Manitoba. This legislative
viding support and professional learning opportunities for the
4 Frontier Northerner
Left: Board Chairperson Linda Ballantyne reviews EDI results.
Above: Trustees of the Frontier School Board.
1,500 staff members that work for the Division. We are talking
It measures five main areas of a child’s development:
about the many adults who want another opportunity to pur-
1.Physical Health and Well-Being: Are children healthy,
independent and rested each day?
sue an education. We are talking about the hundreds of school
age children that no longer register for school anywhere. These
young people require a fourth, fifth, and sixth chance from
our Division in order to discover their individual potential. We
are talking about providing families with the tools they need
to raise healthy, happy children. But most of all we are talking
about supporting children from the time they are in the cradle
until the time they begin their careers – cradle to career.
This report will speak to some of the challenges we all face
and some of the ways we as a Division are facing those challenges.
Early Development Instrument
2.Social Competence: Can children play and get along
with others, share, show self-confidence?
3.Emotional Maturity: Are children able to concentrate
on tasks, help others, show patience, are not often
aggressive nor angry?
4.Language and Thinking Skills: Are children interested
in reading and writing, can count and recognize
numbers, shapes?
5.Communication Skills and General Knowledge: Can
children tell a story, communicate with adults and other
children?
In addition to the provincially-mandated EDI, our Division
Experiences in a child’s first five years of life have a direct im-
conducts our own assessments of Kindergarten students’ readi-
pact on their future health, well-being and success in school.
ness to enter school using an instrument that is referred to as
Everything in a child’s environment, particularly their early en-
the Developmental Indicators for the Assessment of Learning or
vironment, contributes to their brain development. Positive ex-
DIAL. The information gathered from the use of EDI and DIAL
periences early in a child’s life are very important.
are community-specific and they are available for each of your
When a child has nutritious food, physical exercise through
school committees to discuss.
active play, and the love and attention of caring families they
Displayed at the top of the next page are the EDI results from
will thrive. If any of these things are missing from a child’s life
one of our larger communities but are representative of many
they will suffer.
of our communities. This chart shows the percentage of five-
Because of the long term importance of a child’s development
year old children who are not ready to enter school in the five
from conception to the age of five, the Province of Manitoba has
competencies I have just mentioned. In one column you will
developed a tool to measure a child’s readiness to enter school.
see the community average for one of our larger communities
This tool is called the Early Development Instrument or EDI.
as compared to children in the rest of the Province.
FSB Report continued...
Frontier Northerner
EDI results – Sample School: Children not ready to enter school
Community
2010/11
Province
average
2006/07
2008/09
1) Physical health
and well-being
20%
44.8%
32%
32.2%
11.3%
2) Social
competence
20%
20.7%
24%
21.5%
8.7%
3) Emotional
maturity
20%
17.2%
24%
20.4%
11.9%
4) Language and
thinking skills
15%
31%
24%
23.3%
12.5%
5) Communication
skills and general
knowledge
30%
ing skills. In the past number of years it was common in many
schools for students to start school fluent in the language of
their community. This is no longer the case.
Our Board feels it is of utmost importance that communities
realize the gravity of the situation as it pertains to the overall
health of our children prior to their entry into school. Many of
our children are significantly behind other children in Manitoba before they even begin their first day of school. All of us, in
whatever roles and responsibilities we have, need to see these
numbers as alarming. We need to redouble our collective ef-
37.9%
44%
37.3%
11.2%
I would like to point out the following differences.
• The provincial average for students not ready for school
in “physical health and well-being” is 11.3%. Within our
community the average for students not ready for school
is 32.2% in terms of their physical health and well-being.
forts to address this crisis facing our youngest and most vulnerable children.
Gardening and Healthy Foods
As trustees, we are committed to work with families and
communities to ensure our children are given a strong foundation on which they can begin school. Our Mission Statement
talks about the importance of healthy children, healthy fami-
• In the next category of “social competence” 21.5% of preschool children are not ready to enter school as compared
to the provincial average of 8.7%.
lies, and healthy communities. We all know that healthy food
• In the area of “emotional maturity”, 20.4% of our children
are not ready to enter as compared to 11.9% provincially.
taken a very practical approach to this problem and has been
• In “language and thinking skills”, 23.3% of our children are
not ready to enter as compared to 12.5% for the rest of the
Province.
is essential to a child’s well-being. We also know the high cost
of healthy food in many of our communities. Our Division has
working for many years to support families in producing their
own food through community gardening projects.
Growing and producing food is not a new concept. It is
something that our people have done since the beginning of
• Perhaps most concerning is the area of “communication
skills and general knowledge”, 37.3% of our children are
not ready to enter school as compared to 11.2% for the
rest of the Province.
time. Only in our recent history have these practices been for-
We are seeing large numbers of children starting school
Our Division has been teaching students gardening with the
who are behind their provincial peers in their physical
hope that families and communities will join in. Over the years
well-being, social competencies, and emotional maturity.
we have distributed tens of thousands of strawberry plants,
Unfortunately many of our children entering school are also
built many small greenhouses, and helped establish small gar-
significantly behind in language, communication and think-
den plots. We continue to support these initiatives in partner-
gotten. To the detriment of our own health and the health of
our children we have become increasingly reliant on fast and
highly processed foods.
bread, and some peanut butter to give the child a snack. This is
no longer the case. Every day throughout our Division we are
now providing food for several thousand children.
As a Division we have responded to this need out of necessity
but this is not something we can do alone. We can no longer do
this with a few toasters. Schools search for grants, contributions,
and in some cases fundraise, in order to keep programs going.
To further support the basic nutritional needs of children our
Division has adopted and implemented a healthy foods policy in our schools. Once again our Division was a leader in this
area as these types of policies are now being implemented in
schools right across Canada.
Dolly Parton Imagination Library
In addition to the need for nutrition, another critical area of
children being ready to enter school is their awareness and familiarity with things such as books.
As a Division we understand the importance of reading to
children from the time they are born. We also know that many
families do not have easy access to books for young children
ship with our communities. We are doing this because at the
and that books such as these are expensive. To address the
most basic level if our children are going to be healthy they
need of getting books into every home our Board has formed a
must have healthy food.
partnership with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.
The way for many of us to access healthy food in our com-
To become part of this program the parents fill out a form in-
munities is to grow it ourselves. For those of you who were at
dicating the name and ages of their children. Once this form has
the conference last year Priscilla Settee presented on the impor-
been sent in the child will begin receiving books every month,
tance of rediscovering our traditions around the production of
and by the time they are five years old, they will have received
our own food. Our vision as a Board is for every family to re-
60 books. These forms are available through our school librar-
establish what those who went before us took for granted – the
ians. There is no cost to families for this program. We only ask
growing, gathering and storing of our own food.
that parents take the books and read them with their children
The need to revive our traditions around food has immedi-
on a regular basis.
ate urgency. We use the word urgency because many of our
By reading to a young child a little bit every day you are al-
children are hungry. Throughout our history there have always
most guaranteeing that once they start school, learning to read
been times when there were a few children coming to school
will not be a challenge. The key to a child’s success in school is
hungry. Schools would often keep a toaster, a few loaves of
reading.
Dolly Parton Imagination Library: Number of children enrolled by community
Berens River
9
Crane River
11
Matheson Island
2
Sherridon
8
Birdtail Sioux
8
Falcon Beach
16
Moose Lake
125
Skownan
42
Bissett
3
Gillam
56
Norway House
391
Snow Lake
37
Brochet
51
God’s Lake Narrows
8
O’Hanley (Black River)
31
Thicket Portage
10
Camperville
21
Grand Rapids
74
Pikwitonei
2
Wabowden
34
Churchill
62
Ilford
3
Pine Creek
31
Wanipigow
71
Cormorant
23
Island Lake (Stevenson Island) 12
Red Sucker Lake (Disbrowe)
3
Waterhen
6
Cranberry Portage
23
Lynn Lake
Rorketon
17
5
While our schools certainly teach reading, parents have the
a bag of materials to work with their child. The bag contains
critical responsibility to read to their children on a regular basis.
pencils, crayons, scissors, paper and books. During an open
By doing so parents will ensure that our children will no lon-
house event the parents of the Nursery/Kindergarten children
ger be starting school several years behind other children in the
are given hands-on opportunities to learn how to use the mate-
province of Manitoba.
rials in the kit with their children.
In the above table, you can see how many children have
been enrolled in this program in your home communities.
Parent Resources
Much of the work we have been doing to close the school
readiness gap being experienced by our children involves work
with parents.
We have initiated PEER programs in many locations. The purpose of this program is to work with both children and their
parents prior to their entry into Nursery.
Programming that we often take for granted in our communities is not common place throughout the Province. We
were one of the first Divisions to support and establish Nursery
programming in all of our schools. We take this program for
granted but there are very few school divisions in Manitoba offering Nursery. Our Division has also led the way provincially in
offering full-day Kindergarten in many of our communities.
Most of our communities do not have easy access to a public
library. As a Division we continue to focus on making our school
libraries accessible to parents as our commitment to support
literacy. It might surprise you to know that the Division’s librarians have hundreds of thousands of books available to children
and their parents. We encourage your school committee to invite one of our library specialists to present to you the many
resources available to your communities.
Almost from the time children are born it is important for parents to begin talking to them about what they want to be when
they grow up. At a very early age children begin playing with
toys that have a resemblance to the various tools or pieces of
equipment used in real life.
The child development research in this area stresses the importance of children nurturing a dream of what they want to
be. We all know that a child will change their mind many times
but what is important is that they are dreaming of their future
Over the past two years we have established a “Welcome to
accomplishments. We also know that children’s imaginations
Kindergarten” program. This program provides each family with
about their future occupations will often be shaped by the oc-
cupations of their parents or the occupations they commonly
the work experience program, and the annual student tours of
see in their communities.
colleges and universities all work together to support our chil-
Career Trek
In order to support our children’s dreams for the future our
Division has formed a partnership with Career Trek.
dren in their career choices. These programs are available to all
children within our Division. Assistant Superintendent Mac Gillivray highlighted some of these programs at the conference.
Career Trek offers students hands-on experience in different
As a Division, we believe parents are the child’s first and most
careers. Girls and boys as young as ten years of age visit post-
important teachers. The school division cannot and should not
secondary institutions to try as many as 80 careers in 17 differ-
take the place of the parent. Parental involvement has been a
ent fields. It is our belief that when the child nurtures a dream
corner stone of the Division since our very beginning. It is es-
for their future they will begin to see the work they are doing in
sential for the success of our children.
school in a new way. One of the requirements of this program
is the full involvement of parents. If you are interested in having
your children participate in this program we encourage you to
put this topic on the agenda of one of your upcoming school
committee meetings. While reviewing the Career Trek website,
I noted with interest that Elder Marie Nepinak from Skownan
First Nation talks about the benefits this program has had on
her grandchildren.
All the programs that I have just outlined require parental
participation. We believe that we can overcome many of the
obstacles our children face but it can only happen with the full
participation of parents, families and communities. We encourage individual committees to have conversations around increasing the level of parental involvement in each of your communities and schools.
In addition to the supports for early years programming, our
In addition to the Career Trek partnership our Division has
Board believes that each child is a unique individual with their
developed and implemented a number of programs unique to
own gifts, talents, and aspirations. In order to meet the individu-
Frontier that focus on developing within our children a vision for
alized needs of the child as they grow and mature, our Division
their future career.
has established a variety of opportunities and pathways for stu-
Programs such as Career X, the Expanded Options program,
dents to follow.
Children with interests in the arts can be involved in the Division’s Fiddling program which now has over 2,200 students enrolled. In addition travelling artists visit various schools throughout the school year.
Those with an interest in the vocational areas can explore
Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, Building Construction, and Power
Mechanics programming.
We support many different on-the-land programs. Our students have the opportunities to learn trapping, fishing, and
hunting skills. Each of the communities has the opportunity to
work with the Divisional staff and develop programming that is
important and relevant to them. Area Superintendent Swanson
will provide more details on our land-based programing.
On an annual basis the Board receives and discusses the
Area Superintendents Ford and Swanson describe activities taking place in
the Language and Culture department. Area Superintendent Swanson also
reported on land-based activities.
data from the assessment results that show how our children
dents require these courses to apply for many of the jobs that
are performing in English Language Arts, Mathematics and Sci-
are available in the North.
ence. The data you are looking at is included in your conference
In April 2014, the Board of Trustees invited Don McCaskill,
package and is contained in the Division’s Annual Report. This
the Superintendent in charge of the Divisional Mathematics
data is to be used to formulate discussions at your school com-
program, and the Mathematics consultants to meet with the
mittee table.
Board and discuss the current state of Mathematics in the Divi-
In addition to the formal assessment reports received, the
sion. This meeting and subsequent conversations have led our
Board meets with the Area Superintendents and Program Area
Mathematics leadership team to re-envision how we approach
consultants to review student achievement. An ongoing focus
Mathematics in Frontier School Division. This Team has submit-
of the Board at these meetings and at all regular Board meetings
ted a plan to the Board and we as a Board continue to review
is what actions can be taken to address the academic gaps be-
and focus our efforts in Mathematics.
ing experienced by many of our children.
Many of our current programs such as the Division’s literacy
continuum, the pre- and post-tests in Mathematics, and the ad-
It should be noted that intensive discussions on the best approach to teaching Mathematics are occurring throughout the
Province.
ditional supports for Science programming are the result of the
In addition to our concerns about Mathematics, the Board
many meetings and conversations our Board has had with staff.
has also noted that many of our students are not participating
As a Board, we have been concerned about the low par-
in the higher level Science courses. In response to the need
ticipation rates and achievement levels of our students in the
to increase student participation in the Sciences our Board al-
Maths and Sciences. Without a strong foundation in these areas
located additional resources in the budget.
we know that our students will be at a great disadvantage when
A Divisional Science committee has been established. This
it comes to post-secondary education. We also know our stu-
team’s task is to plan and implement Division-wide Science
Shown here is the mobile
lab described by Chairperson Ballantyne in the Board
Report to delegates.
activities. Our team of leaders in Science has been working
Our Board is committed to ensuring that our elders are given
closely with Right Click, the Division’s technology department.
a voice and an active role within the Division. We encourage
Together they have delivered ground breaking, streamed, learn-
each of our school committees to put this on your agenda to
ing events such as live surgical procedures. These events have
discuss ways in which you can incorporate the participation of
put our children in communication with places in Africa, Taiwan,
your community elders into the daily routine of your school.
Australia and the United States. Later on our staff will present
Over the past years our Board has supported major initiatives
further information on the various activities taking place in re-
in the area of Technical Vocational programming. This program-
gard to Science and Technology.
ming is providing our students with a wide range of opportuni-
A foundational pillar of our Division is a commitment to and
ties to explore various career options.
respect for the diverse languages and cultures found through-
We are appreciative of the financial support pro-
out our Division. On September 9, 2014 our Board began the
vided by our government allowing us to pursue and
new school year by holding the Board meeting at the Misi-
expand
pawistik Culture Camp in Grand Rapids to discuss the Division’s
Division. This support has allowed the Division to provide Tech-
language and culture program.
nical Vocational opportunities to small schools that do not have
vocational
programming
throughout
our
Invitations to participate were also extended to the Aborigi-
facilities. This training is made possible by the Division’s mobile
nal Education Directorate and Elders from various Division com-
trailers. These trailers are fully equipped and are brought onsite
munities. At this meeting Elders expressed their concern for the
to deliver instruction in Power Mechanics, Welding, and Building
need to have students learn their local community history, lan-
Construction. This hands-on instruction is under the direction
guage and culture. More information on programs and services
of a fully qualified instructor. These trailers were brought to the
in this department will be provided by Superintendents Ford
parking lot outside of the conference. Assistant Superintendent
and Swanson.
MacGillivray provided more details to delegates at the conference.
Our Division continues to see growth in the numbers of our
students entering post-secondary education. Schools were surveyed in September to determine where their students went
after graduating in June 2014. Just over 49% of graduates in
the survey planned to enter some form of post-secondary studies such as universities, colleges, or trade schools. This increase
in our student participation in post-secondary education is encouraging. It is also an indication that our students are better
prepared to enter post-secondary studies upon graduation.
Adult Education programming continues to expand
throughout our Division. An example of the excellent work in
this program is in our securing the Housing Project that is currently underway at the Northern Technical Center in Cranberry
Portage. The students participating in this project have already
built two 1200 sq ft. homes.
This past September our Board had the opportunity to witness the keys for these homes being turned over to the families
Science Consultant Rockford McKay provided information on Science activities
taking place in the Division and followed up the presentation with a science
experiment.
that now reside in them. The contract for this program is in the
process of being extended an additional four years with mul-
leadership by the Province of Manitoba. As a result of the con-
tiple units being constructed and renovated in various Frontier
fidence shown in our Division and the additional financial sup-
communities. If your school committee is interested in estab-
port provided, our students are now able to enjoy a state-of-
lishing an Adult Learning Centre please speak with your School
the-art facility.
Administrator to determine its viability in your community.
Our Board also received the necessary approvals and finan-
Our Facilities Department has had a very busy and produc-
cial support from Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development
tive year. In addition to all the regular projects our Division does
Canada to replace the water and sewer treatment plant at Jack
on an annual basis, our Board received additional dollars to ad-
River School as well as funding to address the infrastructure up-
dress several projects that have been a very high priority. Most
grades required at the school in Berens River.
notable has been the construction of a new 58,000 sq. ft. student residence in Cranberry Portage. In addition, a new 6,000
sq. ft. power mechanics shop was also constructed.
This past year we received a notice of retirement from our
Area 4 Superintendent Cathy Fidierchuk. She will be retiring
at the end of June. On behalf of the Division our Board wants
Our Board had the privilege to attend the grand opening of
to thank Cathy for her 36 years of dedication to the children of
these facilities this past September. As a Board we want to com-
our Division. We as a Board are grateful for the dedication our
mend all the staff who worked so hard to make this project a
staff has shown to the Division. Without the commitment of
reality.
individuals such as Cathy we could not realize our many goals.
Our Board deeply appreciates the confidence shown in our
Thank you Cathy.
Left: Assistant Superintendent MacGillivray presents information
on the various technical vocational initiatives in the Division.
Above: The Area 4 Advisory Committee receives a presentation by Human
Resources Manager Janina Goldenstein.
I would also like to note that Chief Superintendent Ray
behalf of my fellow trustees I would like to thank you for the
Derksen is retiring at the end of July. We wish Mr. Derksen
support you have shown us and the faith you have placed in us
the very best in his retirement. Upon notice of Mr. Derksen’s
to direct and guide the affairs of the Division. It is a trust we hold
retirement our Board set out a process for the recruitment and
sacred. Thank you.
hiring of a new Chief Superintendent as outlined in Policy C.1.B.
As part of the Board Report, the Board Chairperson wel-
Dr. John Wiens was contracted to work with the Board to assist
comed and introduced Chief Superintendent Designate, Mr.
in gathering feedback from across the Division to help shape
Reg Klassen. Mr. Klassen provided a biography of his work in the
the job advertisement, and to assist the Board with shortlisting
various fields of education and how he is looking forward to his
and interviewing candidates for this very important position.
role with the Division. (See article “Introducing CS-Designate…”)
This was a very lengthy process which began last September
Chief Superintendent Ray Derksen was provided an oppor-
and concluded in mid-January. At the conclusion of my remarks
tunity to share his reflections on being part of the Division for
I will be introducing you to the Chief Superintendent Designate.
many years, offering best wishes to the Board, delegates and
I noted earlier that our Board is committed to supporting our
staff. (See article “Reflections from Ray Derksen”)
students from cradle to career. The theme of our conference
Presentations on Science, Building Construction, Engaged
was “Power of Choice”. Our Board encourages every one of our
Learners Program and Technical/Vocational initiatives, Lan-
school committees to make the choice to establish schools that
guage and Culture, and “Pakwacayik” (Living off the Land) con-
will give our students every opportunity to achieve success. On
cluded the 2015 Board Report.
*
Introducing Reg Klassen,
Chief Superintendent-Designate
L
et me begin by sharing with you how honored I am, to
As I get to know the people in Frontier I discover a similar
have been invited to work in Frontier School Division
kind of character, a character that builds advantage from ad-
in the position of Chief Superintendent. I’ve heard many great
versity. The wide expanse of geography, the great distances
reports about the Division, and in the last few days I have wit-
between communities, and the desire to offer a wide variety
nessed many wonderful aspects of Frontier. I am excited about
of programming to all students, are not without challenges.
becoming part of the Division and working alongside all of you.
From my conversations with people who work and live in
When people ask me how big or where Frontier School Di-
Frontier, it is quite evident that adversity has been made into
vision is, I tell them to go on the Division website, click on the
an advantage in numerous situations.
heading “About Us”, and then click on “Map” in the drop-down
On the morning the announcement of my appointment
menu. I let them know this is the best way to discover where
as Chief Superintendent-Designate was released, Ray called
Frontier is located. By doing this they will also see the signifi-
me and said that people were calling him and asking “Who
cant amount of land that Frontier School Division covers in the
is Reg?” In talking with someone earlier, they said that when
Province of Manitoba. Shortly after they do this, I often receive
they read the announcement with my information it sound-
a comment from them via text or email which always begins
ed similar to Ray’s. This is not far from the truth as Ray and I
with the word “Wow” and ends with something like, “Does that
have some unique connections we discovered when we were
Division ever cover a lot of land”. Following that, I try to explain
working as Superintendents in adjacent Divisions. We were
the complicated and intricate governance system that Frontier
both born in Saskatchewan, grew up Mennonite, our fathers
has, which involves over 200 school committee members. Let
were both ministers for parts of their careers in Saskatchewan,
me just say my explanation is improving each time I try to help
in the same town, at the same time. Since discovering that,
someone understand the system.
Ray and I have had a connection, and now I am proud to say,
As I get to know the Division, I realize that there are many and
one more connection.
varied agreements that are common in Frontier. Each agreement
Other information about me and more important, is that
is designed to deliver meaningful and high quality education to
I’ve been married to my wife Karyn for 31 years and we have
Frontier students. The varied and different agreements and their
three children. Our oldest son, Luke, is a teacher in Winnipeg
programs seem always to be an answer to a challenge that the
and is married to Chaz who works for the government. Brock
community and the Division have solved together. A different,
our second oldest son, is attending Carleton University
but community-orientated solution for each challenge - this is
in Ottawa and is married to Gill who is attending McGill
what makes Frontier so unique in the Province of Manitoba.
University in Montréal. Between the two of them they do a
As I come to know Frontier better, I am reminded of Erik Weihenmayer who wrote the book The Adversity Advantage. Eric
is an athlete who has climbed numerous summits including
Mount Everest. When I heard him speak he said that his adversity, his being blind, was his advantage, because without it he
would never have been challenged to prove that he could do
the things he accomplished.
lot of commuting back and forth. Our youngest, our daughter
Kylie, is attending Minot State University in North Dakota. My
wife and I do look forward to the day when we no longer have
to co-sign student loans!
I would also like to take this opportunity to share with you
what I believe to be integral to the education of our children.
First, I believe that the student is the most important
ing each other, to move forward and take on all of the hurdles,
obstacles, and difficulties that lie in our path. In this spirit of
trust, we have the potential to overcome everything, and accomplish anything.
In a recent article written by Justice Murray Sinclair in The
Manitoba Teacher, he states that we need to help our students
answer four questions, which are the great questions of life.
The first question is “Where do I come from”? This is about the
stories of our community, our history, our family and our personal story. The second question asks “Where am I going”? This
is not just about next week or the coming year. The answer is
about what happens when we die, and our beliefs, faith and
hope. The third question “Why am I here?” is related to the first
two questions and gives us insight into the role we play in the
world, as well as in our community. Justice Sinclair says that
when we answer this question we also need to look at what it
Reg Klassen speaks at the annual School Committee conference.
is our community needs, and that will help clarify a purpose for
our life. The fourth and last question is “Who am I?” According
to Justice Sinclair, it is the most important question because
person in education, and that everything we do, everything we
we are always asking and answering it. Knowing the answers
design, every initiative we take needs to be designed to im-
to the first three questions is imperative because that will help
prove their chances of educational success. I am also certain
us answer this last question. This morning I heard the Frontier
that the teacher in the classroom has the greatest impact on
Board Chair outline some of the ways in which we are helping
student learning, and in order to improve student learning we
Frontier students answer those four very important questions
must support our teachers through professional development,
about themselves.
school scheduling, and work environments as best we can.
After my interview with the Frontier Board was finished I
Second, I think “servant leadership” is important and pro-
called my wife to let her know I was done. Of course by then
vides a framework for how we should carry out our work. Ser-
I had already thought of all the great responses I could have
vant Leadership is about serving people first, then leading.
used, but didn’t think of when answering the questions. She
However; the intent is not to be the only leader, rather, the idea
asked me how it had gone. I told her I was not sure what they
is that those you serve will also grow in their capacity to lead.
might think about me, but in the conversation of questions and
The test to determine whether or not you have been a good
answers, I had found myself really liking this group of people.
Servant Leader is to answer one question: “have you, through
I had a good feeling about the Frontier Board, what they were
your efforts, improved the situation for those you were serving,
focused on in education, and what they believed in. I remem-
and are they more likely to lead themselves?”
ber saying to her “I can work here, it feels like a good place”.
The third idea has to do with building relationships. I believe
Let me state again, how honored I am by the invitation
in relationships that allow and encourage us to share our sto-
to work with all of you, in providing meaningful educational
ries with each other. It is in these relationships we will come to
opportunities for the students in the communities of Frontier
know each other, trust each other, and count on each other.
School Division. I close with the following six words: Our
This type of relationship will give us courage, through know-
Children, Our Success, Our Future. Thank you.
*
Reflections from Ray Derksen,
Chief Superintendent
A
ny time I have to begin a piece of writing with a
disclaimer I should probably stop and wonder about
the wisdom of what I am about to do. But while I have grown
increasingly cautious with age, I still seem to struggle with
impulsivity. So upon reading this, I ask you to take it in the spirit
in which it is written – musings, perhaps irreverent, of a soon to
be retired Chief Superintendent.
After attending the retirement functions of so many
colleagues, it is hard to believe that I didn’t know what to write
and say now that it is my turn. As any good administrator, I
I have done many things in my
career that were unprecedented.
I have to acknowledge, however,
that many of them should never,
ever be allowed to be precedent
setting.
immediately thought I’d get some past examples and follow
precedent. After all, we all love precedent. On the flip side,
probably needed a massage, given the stress of our jobs. Never
nothing scares a true administrator more than setting precedent.
one to ponder ideas for long before taking action, I immediately
I can’t really remember how many times I have been cautioned
arranged for the company to bring all their massage therapists
by people using the most gravity they can summon when they
to the school for a day. The beauty of the plan was that the staff
say, “Be careful Ray – you will be setting precedent.” Now that I
was covered by insurance and the massage therapists needed
am thinking about the whole precedent thing, I have to admit
to develop a clientele. Having made the initial commitment,
to being both full of enthusiasm and oblivion in my youth to
I went into high gear arranging substitutes to cover staff and
the dangers of setting precedent – I have done many things in
booked various rooms in the school for the treatments to occur.
my career that likely caused those in charge of my professional
I can attest to the fact that Superintendents are very busy
life to age in a somewhat premature manner!
people, so my Superintendent of the day did not realize what
As a (very) young Principal, I was concerned about teamwork,
was about to happen. It had taken his lack of input on the
good staff morale, and had a keen desire to make sure staff
event as a sign of complete confidence in my leadership (this
knew how much I appreciated the work they were doing with
was likely a faulty assumption on my part). I am not sure why
our students. The question that constantly confounded me
he chose to visit on the day of the event, but I think it was to
was how to do this in a creative manner. We all know that, as
wish me a merry Christmas. I think what pushed him over the
administrators, we are prone to have muscles bunching up
edge was the hot tub in the library. I had to agree with him on
in our shoulders, and in my case, I seemed to have a problem
that point as a library is not really a suitable location for a hot
with extreme muscle bunching on my forehead. My daughters
tub. All I can say now is that although the event was highly
frequently reminded me to “lift” my forehead. They even
successful resulting in widespread coverage, no precedent was
developed a little signal to remind me. People probably thought
established by that particular action.
they were giving me the thumbs up but I knew better.
Setting precedent is a constant worry to me and has caused
Just before Christmas one year, I was lying on the massage
me sleepless nights. I have done many things in my career that
therapist table in Flin Flon and it occurred to me most of our staff
were unprecedented. I have to acknowledge, however, that
High School – Dropout
The above statement, while true, might require some further
explanation. I didn’t drop out of school. I was kicked out
through no fault of anybody but myself. I often ponder this
when I am called on to make some weighty decision affecting
the life of a young person, or one of the 1,500 or so staff I am
responsible for. For the most part, I believe we are quick to rush
to judgment based on past behaviour. I have also received
the sage advice that “the best predictor of future behaviour is
past behaviour.” That can certainly be the case, but does not
necessarily have to be so. I continue to be gratified every time
I see one of our students leading productive life despite the
myriad of terrible choices they made through their formative
high school years. When I see the various people whose lives I
have impacted through decisions I have made who are doing
well I think “good thing I gave them another chance; look at the
incredible things they are doing”.
Ray Derksen speaks to conference delegates.
many of them should never, ever be allowed to be precedent
setting.
I don’t believe I would now give permission to a young
administrator to rent a load of hogs in order to simulate “the
running of the bulls” down the hallway of a school (I found it very
admirable that the Division allowed me to expense the pigs).
And given what I know today, I would never have approved an
Family - Spontaneous
I have never thought that spontaneity was a bad thing. Good
things often result. This is quite true in terms of my life partner
of 41 years. While I dare not go into the details, I will say it was
love at first sight and marriage shortly after. I owe a great deal
to my wife, Debra, probably much more than I know. I did not
realize until two weeks ago that I owe my career in Frontier to
her as well!
enthusiastic drama teacher to have students re-enact the Virgin
I made this discovery when I asked Human Resources for my
Mary’s labour as she gave birth to Jesus (to be honest this was
file so that I would be able to put together a coherent biography
an aspect of the Virgin Birth I had never really thought about).
for this article. Interestingly enough, there were some notes in
I let my good judgement be swayed by the enthusiasm of the
the file from my initial interview in 1983.
students and the teacher who assured me the whole scene
would be done in a most tasteful manner.
I was described as pleasant several times and then, best of all,
I was given a score of 7 out of 10 with the comment that they
In my defense; however, I must say I didn’t realize how
should likely keep their eyes on me. The one comment that
enthusiastically the student playing the part of the Virgin Mary
was highlighted, and made several times in the file, was that my
in labour would embrace the role, and I certainly didn’t realize
wife was an artist skilled in pottery and interested in working
members of my home church would be sitting in the front row!
with kids.
In my preparation for writing my reflections for a different
I can just hear the Superintendents of the day say, “Didn’t
booklet, I noticed most people provided a bit of a resume. Never
you say there was some guy applying whose wife was a potter?
one to stray too far from precedent, I will do that as well.
Wouldn’t it be great if our students could start learning pottery!”
Reflections continued...
Reflections continued...
I have nothing but extreme gratitude for the unwavering
requirements can become a destructive screening device
support my wife and family have given me over the span of my
imposed on people when there are no practical requirements to
career. They have listened to me tirelessly and been there to put
do so.
me back together from time to time. My wife continues to stand
I have been proud to be associated with a Division and a
by me despite the fact the only picture in my office is of Dolly
Board that give people employment opportunities with the
Parton. The statement probably requires some explanation.
subsequent requirements and support for further education and
Several years ago, our school division partnered with the
training provided. Following this model, I can say I take great
Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Through this partnership,
pride in having played some small part in giving people hope
every child born in our school division receives a book every
and opportunities when both are sometimes in short supply.
month until they are five years old. I am a firm believer that
Career
as educators in positions of influence, we need to support
I graduated at a time when there was a surplus of teachers
the people we serve from “cradle to career,” as we like to say
and jobs were hard to come by. Given my Mennonite name,
in Frontier. I don’t think, however, that our saying of “cradle to
I thought I might be able to trade on that to at least get an
career” is quite accurate. I think what we actually practice in our
interview in southern Manitoba. But being a somewhat poor
school division is supporting people from cradle to grave.
example for the Mennonite name I thought I should turn my
I have been honoured to have stood with so many of our
sights to the north.
communities and staff through the best and worst of times.
Despite my less-than-stellar initial rating in the screening
During these difficult times my family has always stood with me
process, an opportunity presented itself to do a volunteer
and have been proud of who I am and the work that I do – and
placement in the community of Moose Lake with Frontier
for that, I am grateful.
School Division. I volunteered for a month at the school after
My wife has never expressed any concern over the only
picture in my office being that of Dolly Parton, but then she
didn’t know until now! I am sure we can likely work it out
university graduation. At the end of the experience I was offered
an interview by the local school committee.
I have to smile at that experience, which happened so many
through our retirement years.
years ago. I had the misfortune (or maybe the good fortune) of
Formal Education – Bachelor of Arts,
Bachelor of Religious Studies, Bachelor of Education,
Masters in Special Education
being interviewed during the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Somebody
Once I found my footing in university, I probably surprised a
hear the plays over whatever it was I had to say. In retrospect, I
number of people, including myself, that I could do the work and
should not have worried quite so much about competing with
that I thoroughly enjoyed the studies. After six years of university
the game, as they had already witnessed my work over the
my wife indicated that it was likely time to wrap it up and find a
previous month. Nonetheless, I was deeply grateful and very
job.
excited to have been offered a position teaching Grade 6. would ask me a question, and then return their attention to the
TV in the corner. The volume was turned up so that folks could
Throughout my career, I have always enjoyed and taken
Deb, my two daughters Amanda and Crystal, and I loaded
advantage of the many opportunities I have been given to
our belongings into our beat up station wagon and headed
further my education. I completely believe in the value and
north. The nine years we spent in the community were rich. I
power of education, but I also believe that contrived educational
was given opportunities at the earliest stages of my career to
assume formal leadership responsibilities. (Good thing nobody
truth is I only did the rides to regain and keep my balance. For
was checking out my rating in the personnel file, but maybe
me, riding across Canada was professional development at its
they were and just wanted to make sure Deb kept teaching
finest. While I have a deep appreciation for the Caribbean, there
pottery!) It wasn’t long before I was able to move into resource
are some issues that just can’t be worked out on the beach even
and then become the Vice-Principal.
though for some reason I still keep feeling compelled to try.
It has been my experience that Frontier School Division has
I did mention my family has been a great support, didn’t I?
been a Division of opportunity and has provided unparalleled
I have spent 14 years in the superintendency. I was honoured
support for professional growth. I have always been puzzled
to work for the Board in Beautiful Plains School Division for nine
that so many young graduates don’t apply and capitalize on the
years before returning to Frontier as Chief Superintendent. I
fantastic opportunities that are available to them in Divisions
often joke about the trustees of Beautiful Plains taking a chance
such as Frontier.
on this guy from northern Manitoba. I say it was a great choice
In 1992, I was given the opportunity to be the Principal of Mel
for them because if something went wrong, I would be easy to
Johnson School in Wabowden. I have great memories of my
fire as I had no connections whatsoever to anyone in the region!
time there, but if the truth be told, I was terrified of failing. I can
I could not have asked for a better group of trustees and office
distinctly remember being on playground supervision during
staff than the ones that worked with me for the nine years I was
my first week. Some students were acting up and because I
able to serve as their superintendent.
wanted to “set the tone,” I sent them to the office. It suddenly
I am forever grateful to the trustees of Frontier School Division
occurred to me that I was it! What was I doing sending kids to
for giving me the opportunity to serve the Division for the past
see me? At that point, I felt very alone.
five years. I have been surrounded by an incredible group of
Having been a superintendent for 14 years, I still believe that
people – both trustees and staff – during my tenure. I have lost
being a Principal is the most demanding and stressful job in the
track (this will not surprise our Secretary-Treasurer) of the many
system. Around March of my first year as Principal, I was pretty
innovative and creative initiatives that have been undertaken
sure I was going to crash big time. During that period of time, I
in our Division to meet the diverse needs of our students and
was reading the classified ads in the Free Press. In among the job
their families.
ads were a couple of lines that said: “Interested in riding a bike
I have been a tireless cheerleader and advocate for our
across Canada? Call 1-800…” For some reason, I thought that
Division’s innovative approaches to governance and community
would be a good idea so I picked up the phone and signed up.
development. The governance of our Division exemplifies
As usual, I hadn’t worried about several salient details such as
grassroots democracy at the level of the people we serve. I
not owning a bike, and probably more to the point, discussing
have been proud to have had some small part in working with
it with my wife. I will spare the painful details, but in the end
and leading one of the most innovative, creative, and energetic
I did the ride. I figured if I can ride a bike across Canada, I can
school divisions in Manitoba, if not Canada (I admit I am biased).
manage being a Principal. Turns out I was right. The funny thing
And now, I am hearing the oft repeated advice given to
is I have had to take the ride every time I made a serious move
me by numerous staff when I am tempted to expound on
in my career.
any given topic too long – “less is often more” – so, with that
People often have mistaken me for an ardent cyclist given the
three times I ridden across Canada. I usually play along, but the
advice in mind, I will have to save the rest of my stories for
another time.
*
Conference Opening &
Celebration of Achievements
F
rontier School Board Chairperson Linda Ballantyne
officially opened the 37th Annual School Committee
Conference on Wednesday evening.
Festivities included the ribbon-cutting and opening of the
2015 Juried Art Show, a banquet, Nikanihk Ohci Foundation,
Inc. fundraising activity, and student performances in the 4th
Annual Frontier Idol and Frontier Rocks contest.
*
Chairperson Linda Ballantyne opening the Conference.
Bringing greetings to delegates on
behalf of the Province was Minister
of Education and Advanced Learning
Honourable Peter Bjornson.
Area 3 Superintendent Marti Ford
introducing the Frontier Idol and
Frontier Rocks performances.
Secretary-Treasurer Cattani providing instructions on the N.O.F.I. fund raising activity.
Minister Bjornson, Chief Superintendent Derksen, and Chairperson Ballantyne cutting
the ribbon for the Juried Art show.
Delegates enjoying the Wednesday evening activities.
Presentations
T
he conference theme, “The Power of Choice” was supported throughout the three days with presentations
from Niigaanwewidam James Sinclair, Willow Sweeney, Chris
Scholl, and Dr. Marni Brownell.
An Anishinabe Perspective
of Education
Niigaanwewidam James Sinclair
is Anishinabe from St. Peter’s/Little
Peguis. He is the Associate Professor, Native Studies Department at
Willow Sweeney role-playing and having fun with delegate Martha Jonasson.
the University of Manitoba and has
Living Above and Below the Line:
Discovering the Power of Choice
Know How to See Things Differently: The Frame
been a national and international
Niigaanwewidam James Sinclair
commentator on indigenous issues.
Niigaanwewidam is also a renowned author of various publica-
Willow Sweeney is the co-found-
tions and is also the Editorial Director of the Debwe Series pub-
er of “Top 20 Training,” a company
lished by Portage and Main Press.
that empowers and supports indi-
He spoke about the evolution of the aboriginal education
viduals to develop their potential.
system and learning about why we are here, where did we
As a national speaker and trainer
come from, who are we, and where are we going.
since 2002, Ms. Sweeney has
Delegates gave high ratings to Mr. Sinclair’s presentation
with some commenting “Very important to recognize aboriginal culture/education (where we came from) truth about the
worked with over 350,000 leadWillow Sweeney presented with a
token of the Division’s appreciation
at the closing of her presentation.
history will help us move forward” and “I learned a lot from the
speaker in the short period of time.”
ers throughout the United States
focusing on development effective workplace teams and cultures.
Willow talked about how each person can develop potential in themselves and in others. She offered advice on thinking, working and communicating effectively using “Top 20” and
“Bottom 80,” and seeing the “frame” as benchmarks for success.
Using humorous and thought-provoking personal stories, Willow noted that “life looks different when you are above or below
the line” and encouraged everyone to “be your most effective
self more often.”
Willow’s presentation scored very high with delegates with
some commenting “Wonderful speaker. Gave me many things
Niigaanwewidam James Sinclair’s presentation to delegates on the Wednesday
morning.
to take home and share not only with my family but my whole
community” and “I learned many things from her.”
How are Manitoba
Children Doing?
Dr. Marni Brownell is a research
scientist with the Manitoba Centre
for Health Policy and the Manitoba
Institute of Child Health. She is also an
Associate Professor with the Faculty
of Health Sciences at the University
Chris Scholl setting the tone and preparing delegates to make music together.
The Heartbeat of Community:
Making the Most of our Resourcese
Chris Scholl
formed DNA Rhythms in 2007 with the
purpose of bringing people together using the drum as a tool
of communication, celebration and growth. He has performed
professionally for more than twenty-three years, and in the past
nine years has worked in an educational capacity with people
with special needs.
The presentation by Chris was completely hands on and
participants had a musical instrument to use to create and build
the “song” of Frontier. Within minutes of the session, the sounds of
drums and other instruments reverberated throughout the entire
room allowing an opportunity for everyone to speak through
of Manitoba.
Dr. Brownell’s research
Dr. Marni Brownell
focuses on child health, well-being and their social determinants.
Dr. Brownell presented “How are Manitoba Children Doing”
using statistics in the recently released Manitoba Centre for Health
Policy report. She asked delegates their opinion on what makes
children healthy or unhealthy, and what makes children fail or
succeed. She touched on the various factors or determinants of
health including prenatal, birth, home environment, health care,
physical environment, community environment including school
involvement, and the broader society.
Delegates rated Dr. Brownell’s session as first rate, noting “very
good information and resources” and “excellent information
presented – we know now where we need to go.”
*
their instruments.
The workshop was filled with teamwork, laughter and energy.
Delegates rated the session highly and commented “Nice way
to get everyone working together – “beating as one” and “We
can only reach our true potential when we all beat to the same
rhythm, same tune.”
An egg-cellent lesson in teamwork by Chris Scholl.
Juried Art Show
T
he Frontier School Board of Trustees believes that fine
arts activities are an important and necessary comple-
ment to the basic or core programs provided in the Division.
Students get a sense of identity and self-esteem when they
are successful in the arts. The Board has supported several initiatives in the arts including the 15th Annual Juried Art Show
that took place at the Conference Opening and Celebration of
Achievements on the Wednesday evening.
This year’s show featured the talents of 235 students who
submitted a total of 345 works of art from the following schools:
Chan Kagha Otina Dakota Wayawa Tipi School
(Birdtail Sioux • Black River Anishinabe School •
Cormorant Lake School • Cranberry Portage
Elementary • Duke of Marlborough School (Churchill) • Falcon Beach School • Frontier Collegiate Institute
(Cranberry Portage) • Frontier Mosakahiken School
(Moose Lake) • Gillam School • Helen Betty Osborne
Ininiw Education Resource Centre (Norway House) • Joseph H. Kerr School (Snow Lake) • Matheson Island
School • Mel Johnson School (Wabowden) • Minegoziibe
Anishinabe School (Pine Creek) • Mountain View School
(Barrows) • Peonan Point School • Rorketon School • San Antonio School (Bissett) • Skownan School • Stevenson
Island School • Wanipigow School • Waterhen School • West Lynn Heights (Lynn Lake)
Viewing the 15th Annual Juried Art Show.
People’s Choice Award
The Juried Art Show provides our young artists to have their
work evaluated and adjudicated by professional artists with
each participating student receiving a written critique, and a
cash prize to those who placed first, second and third.
As well, delegates and visitors to the Annual School
Committee Conference voted on their favourite piece with the
winner of the “People’s Choice” award announced at the closing
of the conference. This year’s winner was Peyton McKay a grade
12 student from Minegoziibe Anishinabe for his drawing titled
Soul Leaving the Body.
*
Soul Leaving Body, Peyton McKay, Minegoziibe Anishinabe School
Drawing — Grades 7 & 8
1.
Mindful, Tanisha Nabess,
Cormorant Lake School
2.
Master Angler, Liam Friesen,
San Antonio School
3.
Funky Girl, Jillian Wokes,
Mountain View School
3.
Kitty, William Pronteau,
3.
Backyard, Katia Monias,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
Drawing — Grades 9 & 10
1.
You Can’t See Me, Olivia Kent,
Black River Anishinabe School
2.
Murder, Randy Ducharme,
Drawing — Grades 11 & 12, Adult Ed.
1.
Soul Leaving Body, Peyton McKay,
Minegoziibe Anishinabe School
2.
Northern Lights, Briteen Dysart,
Frontier Collegiate Institute
Juried Art Show continued...
Printmaking — Grades 7 & 8
1.
Turtle/Mikinah, Tiffany Paul,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
2.
Loon/Medicine Wheel, Cierra Packo,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
3.
Turtle, Stephanie Robinson,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
Printmaking — Grades 9 & 10
No Entries.
Printmaking — Grades 11 & 12, Adult Ed.
1.
Her, Katia Monias,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
2.
Rabbit, Michael Monias,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
3.
Untitled, Matthew McDonald,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
Painting — Grades 7 & 8
1.
With Flying Colors, Shane Laliberty,
Cranberry Portage Elementary
2.
Untitled, Carlito Sandy, Chan Kagha
Otina Dakota Wayawa Tipi School
3.
Love, Ruth Olson,
Peonan Point School
3.
Sunny, Sonny Francois,
3.
Teapot with Flowers, Rickita-Rae SpenceCockerill, West Lynn Heights School
Painting — Grades 9 & 10
1.
Tiger, Morley Wright,
2.
Believing in Life, Tyreshia Muswagon,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
Painting — Grades 11 & 12, Adult Ed.
1.
Sun Dance, Desiree Colombe,
Mel Johnson School
2.
Memories, Katia Monias,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
Pottery & Sculpture — Grades 7 & 8
1.
Turtle, Sikwan Simpson,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
2.
Inukshuk, Waylon Clarke Jr.,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
3.
Mr. Blaine Klippenstein, Hailey Delaronde,
3.
A Day at the Beach, Tyler Randall,
Gillam School
Pottery & Sculpture — Grades 9 & 10
1.
Zombie, William Pronteau,
2.
Untitled, Jaise McKay ,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
Pottery & Sculpture — Grades 11 & 12, Adult Ed.
1.
Untitled, Ronald Robertson,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
2.
NA Vase, Angel Clarke,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
3.
Puzzle Tumbler, Angel Clarke,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
Crafts — Grades 7 & 8
1.
Inuksuk – you are on the right path, Sarah
Anderson, Cranberry Portage Elementary
2.
Wok & Roll, Shane Laliberty,
Cranberry Portage Elementary
3.
Arrow Head Clock, Hailey Dixon,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
3.
Willow Chair, Eric Gosselin,
3.
Wooden Lamp, Jerrod Simpson,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
Crafts — Grades 9 & 10
1.
Eagle, Jonah Berens,
2.
Images of Churchill, Jacob Olson,
Peonan Point School
Crafts — Grades 11 & 12, Adult Ed.
1.
Power Paddle, Robert Brightnose,
2.
LA Kings Logo, Colby Wastesicoot,
Digital Photography — Grades 7 & 8
1.
The Cone, Mitchell Sanderson,
Waterhen School
2.
YTP Bells, Leanna Catcheway,
Waterhen School
3.
January Sun, Noah Boulette,
Wanipigow School
3.
Vintage Pear, Krysten Sanderson,
Frontier Mosakahiken School
Digital Photography — Grades 9 & 10
1.
Rainbow, Sage Catcheway,
Waterhen School
2.
Lightbulb, Kecia Albert,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
Digital Photography — Grades 11 & 12, Adult Ed.
1.
Ice Spikes, Corbin Tait,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
2.
Sunset Reflection, Mikahla Durey,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
3.
Bob, Jasmine Lundie,
Duke of Marlborough School
Enhanced Digital Photography — Grades 7 & 8
1.
Sad, Nikki Bunka,
2.
Plaid, Kathleen Nepitabo,
3.
Red, Corale Chapman,
Enhanced Digital Photography — Grades 9 & 10
1.
Negative Pears, Krysten Sanderson,
2.
Blue Pears, Carmen Flett,
3.
Desert Pears, Tessa Tobacco,
Enhanced Digital Photography — Grades 11 & 12, Adult Ed.
1.
Parked, Jasmine Lundie,
2.
Lights, Jasmine Lundie,
3.
Colorful Bird Scene, Corbin Tait,
H.B.O.I.E.R.C.
Animation — Grades 11 & 12, Adult Ed.
1.
Dreams, Desiree Colombe,
Mel Johnson School
2.
Redshirt, Dougie Daigneault and Andrew
Colomb, West Lynn Heights School
Student Performances
Frontier Idol and Frontier Rocks Performances
I
t was a very hard year to decide on whom to choose as
Frontier Idol Performers
School
Singer & Song
Gillam
Colleen Gusnowski and Madi Crawford,
I’m on Fire
their schools at the fourth annual Frontier Idol and Frontier
F.C.I.
Angel Murray, Rather Be
Rocks competitions held on February 11, 2015. There is so much
Wanipigow
Darby Klyne, Sweet Dreams
talent across our Division that the task becomes more difficult
F.C.I.
Jacob Harvey, Wonder Wall
each year.
Wanipigow
Lucas Bruneau and Tyler Bruneau, Mad World
Rorketon
Amber Spence and Rose Spence,
Daddy’s Hands
of four members and include one fiddler, one guitarist and a
Wanipigow
Tyler Bruneau, Lazy Song
drummer. The decisions made by a small panel of adjudicators
F.C.I.
Michaela Brown, Try
were very difficult but they selected finalists from across the
Grand Rapids
Caitlin Baker, Grenade
Division for each of the two competitions. This year, we selected
Waterhen
Tessa Huhtala and Grace Warkentin, Cup Song
talented singers and bands from across Frontier School
Division auditioned in the hopes of being chosen to represent
Auditions were open to all Division students in Grades 7 to
12. The auditioning bands, however, had to have a minimum
10 singers or duets and four bands to compete.
On the evening of February 11, the finalists were judged
according to their choice of song, skill level, stage presence, and
overall performance in front of an audience consisting of school
committee members, Division administrators, support staff and
guests.
Winners of Frontier Idol
1st Place Colleen Gusnowski and Madi Crawford
2nd Place Lucas Bruneau and Tyler Bruneau
3rd Place Caitlin Baker
We were very fortunate to have very experienced and wellknown artists; Gerry Beelen, Jason Burnstick, Blair McEvoy and
Dan Canyon, as judges for the competition. Cash prizes were
awarded for first, second and third place winners in each
Lucas Bruneau and Tyler
Bruneau took second place in
the Frontier Idol competition.
competition. The winners of the voice completion also received
a karaoke machine.
Caitlin Baker won third
place in Frontier Idol for her
rendition of Grenade.
Colleen Gusnowski and Madi Crawford won Frontier Idol.
Frontier Rocks Performers
Band
Members & Song
30S Band
(F.C.I.)
Jacob Harvie, Montgomery Mason, Reesha
Dubort, Taylor Constant, Sydney Cable, and
Felix Okemow performing Seminole Wind.
Michelle
Chubb
Project
(H.B.O.I.E.R.C.)
Michelle Chubb, Tiffany Paul, Matthew
Condappa, and Roger Clarke performing
Let Me Take Your Hand, an original song by
this group.
Tremaine Sutherland, John Bushby, Corbin
Rapid Express Meunier, Layne Anderson, Dreden Bercier,
(Leaf Rapids) Gerard Meunier, Maria Jackson, and Ari McDonald performing Wagon Wheel.
Senior Years
Fiddle Band
(Wanipigow)
The Wanipigow Senior Years Band won the Frontier Rocks competition.
Tyler Bruneau, Lucas Bruneau, Jadea Dumas,
Emily Bushie, Hayley Peebles, Cassie Wood,
Darby Klyne, Kara Bjork, Mimi Talifer, Taneesa
Daniels, Keena Smith and Madison Clark
performing Fox on the Run.
Winners of Frontier Rocks
1st Place Wanipigow Senior Years Fiddle Band
2nd Place30S Band (F.C.I.)
3rd Place Rapid Express (Leaf Rapids)
This year, while the judges decided on the winners, we
30S Band took second place in Frontier Rocks.
decided to give the conference a glimpse of our up and coming
talent. We invited the Wanipigow Middle Years Band to perform.
This Group of Grade 6 students did such a great job, we had
them play two songs. When they were finished, we invited
Lucas Bruneau, accompanied by his younger brother, Tyler, to
the stage to once again do his winning performance of the
2013 Frontier Idol, Gangnam Style.
Frontier School Division congratulates the finalists and
winners and wishes to thank the audition participants, judges
and the volunteers whose efforts and dedication make the
Frontier Idol and Frontier Rocks competitions happen.
Rapid Express came in third place in Frontier Rocks.
Student Performances continued...
Student Performances continued...
Frontier Fiddlers
Christina Cater Memorial Square Dancers
Groups of Frontier Fiddlers have performed at events all
This square dance group from Norway House consists of eight
across the Province including The Trappers Festival in The
youth ranging in age from 14-19 years. The group is named in
Pas, West End Cultural Centre, Festival du Voyageur, Divisional
honour of Christina Cater, a young resident of Norway House
functions and Provincial and National conferences.
who passed away from brain cancer within a year of graduating
The goals of the Fiddle program are to provide students
from Helen Betty Osborne Ininiw Education Resource Centre.
with music instruction; increase student self-confidence;
Christina was an avid square dancer as well as being a fan of
reintroduce a form of music that was disappearing in northern
square dancing. The group’s grey colour was purposely chosen
communities; and assist schools to build a sense of joint school
because the grey ribbon is symbolically used in the fight against
and community pride in their music program.
brain cancer.
Students are selected from schools across the Division with
The Christina Cater Memorial Square Dancers have
a focus on involving as many students as possible, resulting
performed together for over three years, participating in many
in membership changing from event to event. The schools
competitions and events including the Norway House Cree
performing at the 2015 Conference were:
Nation festivals, Peguis First Nation, Fisher River First Nation,
• Duke of Marlborough School
• Matheson Island School
• Leaf Rapids Education Centre
• Falcon Beach School
• Grand Rapids School
• Minegoziibe Anishinabe School
• Frontier Mosakahiken School
• Helen Betty Osborne Ininiw Education Resource Centre
• Oscar Blackburn School
• Wanipigow School
various Divisional events, and the 2014 Manito Ahbee Music
Awards in Winnipeg. The group is the current World Champions
of Square Dancing (2014) at championships held in Reedy Creek
this past August.
*
Recognition Awards
T
Long Service Awards
he following long service awards were presented by the
Board during the lunch on Thursday.
Outstanding Contribution Award :
School Committee Member
This award was established by the Board in 1998 to recognize
• Debbie Hatch, Cold Lake School Committee (15 years),
the contribution school committee members have made to the
• Donna Calvert, Cold Lake School Committee (15 years),
Division. It is presented to a school committee member who is
• Madeleine Handel, Stevenson Island School Committee
“outstanding.”
(15 years).
Congratulations Debbie, Donna and Madeleine!
Stevenson Island School
Committee member
Madeleine Handel (second
from left) receiving her
long service award from
Area 3 Trustees Marg Imrie
and Tanya Friesen and
Board Chairperson Linda
Ballantyne.
Criteria for the award include:
• Active participation on a school committee,
• Volunteers for activities in the school,
• Participates in Area ad Division activities,
• Holds executive duties and responsibilities,
• Is willing to take training,
• Has good attendance at school committee meetings,
• Is responsive to the community and school concerns,
• Is a long serving member of the school committee.
The Board was pleased to announce Cynthia Devaney as
recipient of the Outstanding Contribution Award. Cynthia has
been a member of the Matheson Island School Committee for
over fifteen years. She has served as Chairperson of her local
Cold Lake School Committee
Member Debbie Hatch
(second from left) receiving
her long service award from
Area 4 Trustees Marion
Pearson and Donna Calvert
and Board Chairperson
Linda Ballantyne.
school committee and has been a representative on the Area
3 Advisory Committee. Cynthia has devoted countless hours
volunteering for various school activities including fundraising
for school trips, and is a strong advocate for her school.
Some comments from those who nominated her included
“her top priority as a school committee is to ensure that the
children receive the best quality education” and “willingly
support(s) her community by doing, giving and volunteering.”
Congratulations Cynthia!
Cold Lake School Committee
and Area 4 Trustee Donna
Calvert (centre) receiving
her long service award from
Area 4 Trustee and ViceChairperson Marion Pearson
and Board Chairperson
Linda Ballantyne.
*
Cynthia Devaney from the
Matheson Island School
Committee (left) receiving the
Outstanding Contribution Award
– School Committees as presented
by Board Chairperson Linda
Ballantyne.
Nikanihk Ochi Foundation Inc.
T
he Foundation was established in December 1987 as
a charitable organization to support the students of
Frontier School Division. Nikanihk Ochi is a Cree phrase, which
means “for the future”. N.O.F.I. is administered by a Board of
Directors.
N.O.F.I. provides an organizational framework to promote
education in a variety of ways:
• Scholarships and other financial awards for students
who wish to further their education at a post-secondary
Calling all High School Students!
institution, such as a university, college, vocational,
technical, or trades training school,
Did you know that you may be eligible to receive a
• Non-monetary donations (e.g. books for school libraries);
scholarship from the Nikanihk Ohci Foundation, Inc.? All you
• Administration of grant money.
need to do is put paper to pen (or fingers to keyboard) and fill
N.O.F.I. is empowered to solicit and raise funds from the
public to support its aim. The Foundation raises funds through
its payroll deduction program for Frontier School Division
employees as well as Division fundraising activities including
the Annual School Committee Conference in February.
This year’s fundraising activities included an event at the
“Conference Opening and Celebration of Achievements” on the
Wednesday evening and a raffle with tickets sold throughout
the conference.
Elimination Draw Winners: Angie Burdett (Winnipeg), Kelly
Jacobson (Cranberry Portage), Dr. Michael Isaac (Winnipeg).
Raffle Draw Winners: Don McCaskill (Thompson), Audrey
out an application form for the following scholarships!
The Floyd Tucker Memorial Electrical Scholarship
Open to a Grade 12 graduating student who is enrolled in a
recognized University or Community College in the electrical/
electronic field. An original essay on future career aspirations
is required.
The John W. Milner Memorial Scholarship
Open to a Grade 12 graduating student who is enrolled in
a recognized University or Community College. An original
essay on environmental issues is required.
Ballantyne (Grand Rapids), Linda Ballantyne (Grand Rapids), Sven
Divay (Bissett).
The Directors of N.O.F.I. extend their thanks to Calm Air
International, Canad Inns Destination Centre Fort Garry, Radisson
Hotel Winnipeg Downtown, Best Western Winnipeg Airport,
Architecture49 Inc., Graham Construction, CommStream,
Perimeter Aviation and Hans Arnold Photography for donating
prices. They also extend their appreciation to the delegates
who participated in the fundraising activities in support of this
worthy cause.
Humanitarian Award
Open to a graduating high school student, graduating
Home Placement student, or Division student transported to
a non-Division school, and must be involved in humanitarian
work in order to be eligible. An completed application form
is required.
For more information on these scholarships contact your
classroom teacher, Principal, or the Board of Directors, N.O.F.I.
at (204) 775-9741.
*

2015 Northerner Spring Edition

Transcription

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