Mikisew Cree First Nation Opens Rita Marten Nihiyawiwin Kiskinwamatowin High School in Edmonton

Student Jay-dean Auger (Sitting Right) with the Rita Marten Nihiyawiwin Kiskinwamatowin High School prinicpal and teachers (Photo Credits - Daniel Barker-Temblay)

Mikisew Cree First Nation has opened the Rita Marten Nihiyawiwin Kiskinwamatowin High School in Edmonton, welcoming its first grade 10 students on August 31. The school combines Alberta curriculum with Cree language, Indigenous knowledge, cultural and land-based learning, with plans to expand to grades 11 and 12 over the next two years.

Kanesa Shwetz, Principal at Rita Marten Nihiyawiwin Kiskinwamatowin High School tells CFWE that many calls are pouring in for registration for parents to get their kids connected to their educational studies and land-based teachings.

Paula Campbell, Cree Language and Culture teacher at Rita Marten Nihiyawiwin Kiskinwamatowin High School speaks on working alongside Elders from Fort Chipewyan First Nation and northern communities to help students connect with culture and the land.

Elder Sara Loutitt with Rita Marten Nihiyawiwin Kiskinwamatowin High School highlights the meaning behind the schools name, which translates to “Cree Language Learning Space” in the Cree language, which also creates a space that nurtures students while building confidence and identity.

Jay-dean Auger, student at Rita Marten Nihiyawiwin Kiskinwamatowin High School speaks on the welcoming environment that the school has created, while supporting her work towards becoming a marine biologist.