Grade 4 Teacher

Big River First Nation operates two schools on its reserves in Saskatchewan, Canada: Mistahi Sipiy Elementary School and Chief John Keenatch High School. These public schools serve the community's Indigenous students, with Mistahi Sipiy accommodating approximately 360 students from nursery to grade five, and Chief John Keenatch enrolling 439 students in grades seven to twelve during the 2022-23 school year. Located within the Big River First Nation reserves, the schools emphasize a culturally grounded education. Chief John Keenatch High School features a brand-new facility, including a year-round artificial ice arena, full cafeteria, large gym, and 500-seat lecture theatre. Both institutions offer a local curriculum enriched with cultural programs, such as an Elder's Program providing access to traditional teachings, land-based learning, cultural days, and after-school sports. Daily lunch programs deliver nutritious breakfasts and hot lunches to support student well-being. The schools align with the Big River First Nation's vision of life-long learning to foster a sustainable, healthy, safe, and vibrant community rooted in cultural values and land-based knowledge. They are part of the Treaty Six Education Council, which promotes Indigenous education across 11 First Nations and over 3,000 students, honoring Indigenous knowledge and treaty preservation. Community goals prioritize enhancing youth education and post-secondary support.