NISICHAWAYASIHK CREE NATION EDUCATION FACILITIES

The new schools for Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation were carefully planned with 21st Century Learning approach to the design that places equal value on education, culture, wellness, and community. Located on a large, shared site in Northern Manitoba, the new Otetiskiwin Kiskinwamahtowekamik Elementary School and the Nisichawayasihk Ohtinwak High School create a central hub for the students, teachers, and community members of Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation. Each school is oriented on the site to maximize opportunity for shared amenities such as bus drop off, parking, playing fields and ceremonial gathering spaces. Serving as a replacement for both the existing Elementary and High School, the design team was tasked to provide new facilities that will accommodate a growing population of students in the NCN Community, as well as teacherages to support the teaching staff.

A series of integrated project team meetings, student/staff workshops, and community engagements sessions helped inform the design. Both schools will play an important role in preparing students for their future, going well beyond a formal education. Wellness, community, culture, and a student’s sense of belonging and identity all are given the opportunity to grow and develop in tandem with traditional learning. The design for the school has placed emphasis on providing a durable, energy efficient and cost-effective building that will be easy to maintain by the community for years to come, while accommodating existing and new programs, maintaining a strong connection with the students, staff, community, and elders, and celebrating the rich cultural history of the people of Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation.