Grades 1, 2 & 3

Kitiganik School is a **public First Nations school** serving the Algonquins of Barriere Lake community located at Rapid Lake in northwestern Quebec, approximately 270 kilometers northwest of Ottawa.[2][3] The school operates on the traditional territory of Mitchikanibikok Inik within the Outaouais region.[1] The institution provides **bilingual instruction in English and Algonkian**, reflecting the community's commitment to language preservation.[1] Kitiganik School comprises two divisions: the primary program, Pakiginekizin (First Steps Moccasin), serves students from HeadStart (age 3) through Cycle Three (Grade Six), while the secondary program, Migizi (Eagle), serves Secondary One through Secondary Three (Grades 7-9), with plans to expand to grades 10 and 11.[1] The school's educational philosophy emphasizes cultural continuity and community connection. The Algonquins of Barriere Lake maintain a 100% fluent level of Algonquin proficiency and are recognized as leaders in preserving the Algonquin language.[3] The curriculum integrates traditional knowledge alongside academic subjects, with instruction designed to pass cultural heritage to the next generation. Kitiganik School features comprehensive facilities including a cafeteria, library, two computer labs, SMART Boards, gymnasium, baseball diamond, track and field, and ice rink.[1] The school serves a young population, with 53% of the community under 19 years of age.[3]