Pakinawatik School People who make a difference at ... - Kitigan Zibi

Goals of the School ............2 

Sample Teaching 

Methods .............................3 

Tribes Learning ..................3 

People who make a di� erence 

Kitigan Zibi School ... 4-5 

Pakinawatik School .... 6-7 

Algonquin Partial 

Immersion ..........................8 

Sample Special Events ........9 

Unique Programs ........ 10-11 

Pimadjiwo Mikanan 

Life/Work Paths 

Program ............................12 

Special Needs Students.....13 

Kitigan Zibi’s Breakfast Club 

Clubs des Petits Dejeuners 

du Quebec ..........................14 

Other services ...................14 

Highlights from trips 

and extracurricular 

activities ..................... 15-18 

KITIGAN ZIBI KIKINAMADINAN 

New Way of Learning Together 

Oshki-wayag Kikinâmâgôwin 

Celebrating 30 years 

We believe that our unique 

Algonquin way of life must be an 

important part of the educational 

program provided to students at all 

levels. 

As a means of enabling Algonquin 

students to learn to live good lives 

meaning that they: 

of academics and sports! 

1980-2010 

• Become self reliant; 

• Have self-respect for themselves, 

one another and for their elders; 

and 

• Learn to live in harmony with 

themselves, the community, the 

people outside the community 

and the natural environment.

2 

Since the Kitigan Zibi Kikinamadinan 

o� cially opened its doors in 1980, a lot of 

students, parents, teaching sta� , support 

sta� and Elders have participated in our students’ 

education. Kitigan Zibi Kikinamadinan continues 

to provide the best learning experiences and tools 

that have been enhanced throughout the years. 

For the Kitigan Zibi School system, following 

the MEQ (Ministère de l’Education du Québec) 

learning in cycles replaced the individual grade 

system; working in cycles began a new way of 

interaction in large groups. It also provided a means 

for more socialization and encourages students to 

work together and not alone at all times. 

� e Kitigan Zibi School has always been 

recognized for the overall cleanliness, respect and 

courtesy remarked by visitors who have visited our 

facilities. Many have congratulated the remarkable 

e� ort in preserving our Algonquin language and 

culture. 

A new program called “Work Paths” has given 

some students an opportunity to perform more 

hands-on learning along with life skills. Academics 

remain an important part of the program that 

supports students’ learning abilities. It gives the 

students an opportunity to complete their Sec. 

IV English/Math subjects in order to reach their 

goals at college, vocational programs or in the 

work environment. 

Above all, our school is an extraordinary 

institution, which strives to continually provide the 

best education possible. It combines knowledge 

and skills in a way which uniquely quali� es our 

students to respond to the demands of the present 

and the future. 

Goals of 

the School 

� e general goals of the Kitigan Zibi Education system 

are: 

• To assist our children to develop morals and values, 

which are consistent with the community which 

should serve as a guide to living. 

• To help our children to develop mental and 

emotional maturity. 

• To seek out and to develop to their fullest, our 

children’s individual talents and abilities. 

• To seek out and to assist our children in overcoming 

individual weaknesses. 

• To provide our children the opportunity to develop 

the skills of e� ective communication. 

• To provide opportunity for our children to speak, 

understand, respect and use their Algonquin 

language. 

• To help our children understand, respect and bene� t 

from their own Anishinabe culture 

• To help our children understand their responsibilities 

and privileges as members of their families and their 

communities. 

• To help our children develop those attitudes, habits 

and skills which will enable them to become well 

adjusted, well informed and socially responsible 

community members. 

It is a busy school and it is with loving, caring and 

dedicated people that we all strive to motivate 

our students to come to school on a daily basis. 

The students’ priority as they enter K-Z school is 

to succeed and focus on their academics for the 

entire school year.

Sample Teaching 

Methods: 

Using Instructional Intelligence has become one way of teaching at 

Kitigan Zibi School. It is available for teachers to utilize a variety of 

strategies and techniques that will actively involve all of the students 

in the classroom, both elementary and high school sectors. � e 

teacher will engage all of the learners in his/her classroom, taking 

into consideration learning styles, disabilities, multiple intelligences 

and children at risk. As much research 

shows, co-operative learning is an e� ective 

tool in the classroom where group work is 

most e� ective. At the moment, the Principal 

and 5 teachers are participating with the 

Western Québec School Board for a 5 year 

training period in regards to “Instructional 

Intelligence” (on a part-time basis). 

Tribes 

Learning: 

A new teaching tool that provides a 

wonderful approach to develop skills and a 

common ground necessary for a school to 

be a positive place for students. It provides 

caring relationships, positive expectations, 

and opportunities for participation and 

contribution that promote both positive 

youth development and successful learning. 

Teachers use this approach for behaviour 

issues and also add on to the Instructional 

Intelligence teaching. 

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4 

People who make a difference 

at the Kitigan Zibi School 

Shirley Whiteduck 

Principal 

Bachelor of Education 

Masters in Education 

Cathy Tenascon 

Bachelor of Arts BAC, Soc SC 


Primary Specialist 

Reading Part 1 & 2 

Special Education – Part 1 & 2 

Computers in the classroom - Part 1 & 2 

Misty Blue Whiteduck 


D.E.C. (Social Sciences) 

April Cote 

Early Childhood Education Diploma 

Bachelor of Arts 


Junior Specialist part 1 

Joan McGregor 


Bachelor of Education/ 

Special Education Specialist 

– Part 1 & 2 

Masters in Education 


Amanda Buckshot 

Bachelor (Honors) - English 

Masters Degree in English Literature 


in English and History 

Daryl Tenasco 

Bachelor of Social Work 


Drug & Alcohol Abuse Program Certificate 

Bahman Khoee 

Bachelor of Science 

Masters in Science 


Celine Whiteduck 

Bachelor of Arts - Leisure Studies 

Bachelor of Sociology/Psychology 

Bachelor of Education - Primary/Junior 

Specialist -Intermediate 

-Physical Education 

Special Education – Part 1 & 2 Specialist 


Andrew Buckshot 

Bachelor of Arts Social Studies/ 

History/Geography 


Valerie Plain 



Special Education Specialist 

Part 1 & 2 Ottawa University 


Marina McDougall 

Native & Northern 

Teacher’s Native 

Certificate Program 

McGill University 

Jan Cote 



– Intermediate - Phys. Ed. 

Joan Tenasco 

Native & Northern 

Teacher’s Native 

Certificate Program 


Chicoutimi University 

Mike Diabo 

Bachelor of Science Honors 

- Human Kinetics 

May McDougall 

Native Teachers’ 

Assistant Program Certificate

Karen Buckshot 

Native Teachers’ 

Assistant Program Certificate 

Rock Gagnon 

Music Teacher 

Bachelor degree in Administration 

Jo Ann Odjick 

Classroom Assistant 

Queen’s Universtiy 

(Courses in Psychology) 

John Tenasco 

Art Teacher/Assistant 

D.E.C. - Visual Arts, Heritage College 

Bachelor of Arts, Ottawa University 

Jenny Tenasco 

Early Childhood Education diploma 

Child & Youth Worker Diploma, 

Algonquin College 

Stephanie Tenasco 

Librarian/New Media 

Office System Technology O.S.T. 

Heritage College diploma 

Sue Beaudoin 


Alison Commando 

Career/Student Counsellor 

First Nations Leadership & 

Administration Certificate 

College Diploma - Social Sciences 

Carleton University - Sociology 

Laurie Wawatie 

Special Education Co-ordinator 


Chicoutimi University 


Shirley Tolley 



Masters of Education 


SUPPORT STAFF: 

Rachel Seguin 

Secretary 

Bachelor of Arts-Psychology, 

University of Ottawa 

Andrew Commonda 

Head Janitor 

Jean-Marc Carriere 

Head Cook 

Chef Training 

Hotel & Restaurant Management 

Algonquin College 

Karen Brascoupe, R.N. H.B.Sc.N. 

Education Sector Nurse 

Honors Bachelor of 

Science in in Nursing 

Lakehead University 

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6 

Pakinawatik 

School 

To teach our Anishinabe language and culture in all 

aspects of our Preschool Education Program as well, to 

provide a safe, supportive environment that promotes 

self-discipline, motivation and excellence in learning by 

singing our language, cultural skills, traditional stories 

and values. 

Mission Statement 

Philosophy of Education 

Each Anishinabe child is a unique individual who needs 

a secure, caring and stimulating atmosphere in which to 

grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically 

and socially. It is our desire to provide opportunities to 

maintain our heritage as Anishinabe people. 

? 

People who make 

a difference at 

Pakinawatik School 

Jacqueline Decontie 

Senior Kindergarten Teacher 

Native & Northern Teacher’s Certificate 

Program, McGill University 

Certificate in Crisis Intervention and 

Family Violence 

Brenda Ottawa Buckshot 

Junior Kindergarten Teacher 


Melissa Decontie 

Receptionist 

Secretarial Certificate 

Louise Tenasco Cote 

School Cook

� e Pakinawatik School day begins at 8:45 am and 

ends at 2 pm. � e Junior Kindergarten Program is 

delivered primarily in the Algonquin language. � e 

Senior Kindergarten Program is also delivered in the 

Algonquin language. (75% in Algonquin and 25% in 

English to prepare students for grade 1). 

� e Pakinawatik Cook serves vegetables and home 

made soup daily. A nutritious snack is prepared and 

served by the teachers and cereal is made available on 

a daily basis. 

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8 

Mokasige Algonquin 

Partial Immersion 

Kidinwewoninan Our Language 

� e Mokasige Algonquin Immersion takes place with the 

understanding that the afternoon class is multi-graded one to 

six with the responsibility of language learning only and not 

subject teaching. We use the thematic approach to learn the oral 

nature of language. We work with more than one unit at a time, 

learning Algonquin through games, gross/� ne motor activities, 

crafts, dancing, cooking, songs, plays, art with di� erent media, 

journaling, culturally related activities, teachings, medicines 

and storytelling with our students. For discipline, we have 

a policy of prevention that we call a traditional circle. For 

example, we establish expectations for both teacher and 

students, ideas, news and discipline. We sit in a circle once a 

month or, should a problem occur, we identify the problem as 

each person perceives it. What actually happened? Why do you 

think it happened? To come to an understanding of why these 

things happen and contribute to a solution. Most importantly, 

here at Mokasige, we do our best to respect each other, both 

students and teacher, to make it a fun learning environment. 

— Joan Tenasco 

Nidjibakwemin 

Mariah Nabowadjige 

Kibimadjiwowininan Our Culture 

Dan Ojahamegwe 

It is a busy school and it is with loving, 

caring and dedicated people that we all 

strive to motivate our students to come 

to school on a daily basis. The students’ 

priority as they enter K-Z school is to 

succeed and focus on their academics 

for the entire school year. And, our 

Anishinabe language is important! 

Pine Piniya

Special Events 

In September 2008, we hosted an Open House/Orientation 

Day and invited parents/guardians to come to school to see 

their child’s classroom and share in the B.B.Q. and activities 

that we had organized. � ere were games and an enormous 

slide that was available to all ages. 

After fun and games, the students settled down to schedules, 

routines and getting organized. � e various grades began with 

having assemblies regarding House Leagues, and looking at 

di� erent scheduled events for the � rst semester. 

� e cycles started immediately with their themes and met to 

work in their groups. � is style of learning is bene� cial to all 

students that like interactive work. As mentioned before the 

cycles are as such: 

Cycle 1 > Grades 1 & 2 (Elementary sector) 

Cycle 2 > Grades 3 & 4 

Cycle 3 > Grades 5 & 6 

Cycle 1 > Sec. 1 & 2 (High school sector) 

� e past 2 years, we have held a “festive dinner” for Elementary/ 

High School students and all sta� . A delicious Christmas 

dinner was prepared by sta� . � e tables were all decorated 

appropriately with centerpieces were made by High School 

students. Gifts were beautifully wrapped and drawn between 

all students. � is occasion brings the Christmas spirit to 

everyone! Last year the sta� organized a sweet Valentine 

get together with Elementary and High School students on 

February 14th. Students made cookies and chocolate hearts to 

serve everyone. � is occasion occurred in the afternoon before 

school ended. 

� e Kitigan Zibi School o� ers its students many extras that 

other schools do not so that our students appreciate their 

learning environment and learn to celebrate positive events! 

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10 

Unique 

Programs 

Music 

Music was integrated in our curriculum at KZ School to 

give students the opportunity to showcase their talents 

and develop new ones as seen at the “Fashion Show”. 

� is course also taught them patience, listening skills and 

appreciation of di� erent types of sound. 

� e music teacher (Roch Gagnon) was dedicated to 

teaching students from Grade 1 to Secondary 5, two days 

a week. Some learned about drums, bass guitar, acoustic 

guitar, piano and � ute, while others could sing. 

What an awesome opportunity for our students! 

Art with John T. 

� e objectives of art work is to be able to express one’s feelings and ideas of 

the world around them. John Tenasco has used clippings, 3D, and charcoal 

art. An art show took place on May 22nd 2009 at the Culture Centre. What 

“magni� cent” hidden talents!.

Creative Presentations: 

A group of students were invited by the Forestry 

Department to visit a workplace near Mont-Laurier. 

� e technicians talked about the various trees, how they 

study the forest and why they cut in certain areas. � e 

students also had a chance to observe di� erent machines 

at work and how they bunch trees to a line for removal. 

� e Christmas Musical Fashion Show was presented in 

December 2008. � e organizers did an excellent job in 

helping the students with a crash course in modeling. 

� e music teacher also promoted his music classes when 

he brought all of his students to perform to the audience 

at the show. 

An annual Christmas concert is organized by the 

Kitigan Zibi School sta� . 

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12 

Pimadjiwo Mikanan 

Life/Work Paths Program 

Kitigan Zibi School o� ers a Life/Work Paths program, 

an alternative class for high school students who are not having 

their needs met in the regular high school classes. � is program 

was implemented to ensure that all students, no matter what 

their learning needs, have a chance to attain their goals and 

� nd success in their individualized programs. 

Students in the Life/Work Paths program work on 

the development of their English and Math skills. � ey also 

take part in subjects such as Career Studies, Health & Well- 

Being, Cooking, Personal Training and Integrated Projects. 

Depending on each student’s individualized path, they may 

also attend some regular high school classes, such as French, 

Native Studies, Personal Orientation Program and Art. � ey 

also join with their peers for Physical Education classes. 

Another option for students in the Life/Work Paths 

program is a part-time work placement in the town of 

Maniwaki. We have had students placed in various businesses, 

such as Mercier Aluminum and Climatisation Maniwaki. 

� ese work placements have led to summer jobs for some 

students and have been very positive experiences.

Special Needs Students 

� e Kitigan Zibi School provides its special needs students 

with much valuable support. Students receive such services 

as Educational Psychological Assessments, Speech/Language 

� erapy and Occupational � erapy. � ey are also o� ered 

individualized and/or small group instruction periodically to 

meet their needs. 

Educational Psychological Assessments are o� ered to 

students when they begin having major di� culties in their 

school work. � ese assessments are completed by quali� ed 

Educational Psychologists. � ey provide teachers with 

valuable information and recommendations on how they 

can best meet their student’s needs and ensure that they are 

providing the best possible education to all students. As well, 

these assessments provide parents with answers to the many 

questions and concerns they have about how to best help their 

children. 

Speech/Language assessments and therapy are o� ered to 

students who are struggling with speech or language di� culties, 

including di� culties in reading and/or spelling. Occupational 

� erapy Assessments are o� ered to students struggling with 

attention/focus or � ne and/or gross motor di� culties. Once 

an assessment is completed, students are o� ered bi-monthly 

therapy sessions. Our teacher and classroom assistants are 

encouraged to join the therapy sessions with their students 

in order to learn the techniques used by the professional 

therapists, and then in turn, use these techniques to help their 

students. 

We also o� er our special needs students individualized and/or 

small group resource support to target their special needs. We 

are very pleased in that each of our students who are attending 

therapy sessions, are also able to receive follow-up sessions 

throughout the weeks between the direct therapy sessions, 

with our sta� here at the school. � is has had a very positive 

e� ect on the success of students attending Speech/Language 

and/or Occupational � erapy. 

The Kitigan Zibi School is pleased to be 

able to offer these important resources to 

our special needs students. Their success 

is our success! 

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Kitigan Zibi’sBreakfast Club 

Clubs des Petits Dejeuners du Quebec 

We are pleased to announce that K-Z School will be 

o� ering the above mentioned program in the coming 

school year. � is hot/cold breakfast will be served 

Monday through Friday for Gr. 1 to Sec. V students, 

as well as sta� . � e cost will be $0.30 for elem. and 

$.50 for high school students on a daily basis. 

Of course, this program will be successful as parents/ 

guardians/sta� will be volunteering their time within 

the 5 day week. � e breakfast club promotes healthy 

eating habits and it is very nutritious. Just an example 

of the menu would be: pancakes, fruit, yogurt, 

milk, juice, toast, grilled cheese, omelets, English 

Mu� ns, etc... 

Other services 

Cafeteria: 

Currently, the cafeteria is providing homemade soup, 

vegetables and fruit daily. We still o� er a delicious hot 

lunch on Wednesdays and Fridays, which is served by 

our cook, Jean Marc. Beginning in September 2010 a 

new program called “Petit Dejeuners” will begin. � is 

program will operate with volunteers on a rotating 

basis to prepare hot and cold breakfasts when the 

students get in from the bus. 

Nursing Services: 

For many years, Karen Brascoupe has been attending 

to the students of the Kitigan Zibi School. Upon 

requests, she has also visited the Pakinawatik School, 

Odekan and Wazoson. Presently, she is teaching 

“Health Classes” to the students in the High School 

sector. 

I have been working with Mr. Sebastien Desaulniers 

to get the Club going. The full program will begin 

in September 2010. � e more students we have for 

breakfasts, the better. So don’t worry if your child 

doesn’t eat at home in the morning, he or she can 

have it here. 

Migwech! S. Whiteduck, Principal 

Janitorial Services: 

� e janitorial services are headed by Andrew 

Commonda with Jerry Budge, Steve Brascoupe, 

Dale Jacko, and George Jerome. On-going 

maintenance is important to have our school providing 

a clean and safe environment. Our maintenance team 

does so much for the cleanliness of our facilities and 

in setting up for our many special events! 

Russes Busses: 

NEW 

Russell and Pearl Cote have been providing 

safe transportation for the Kitigan Zibi School, 

Pakinawatik School and for those who attend schools 

in the town of Maniwaki. � ey also have David Cote 

driving on a daily basis along with Janet McConini as 

the support person in the bus. 

For Russes Busses, safety is priority one!

Highlights 

Trip to Rome, Italy: 

On April 20th, 2009, Stephanie Tenasco and � ve 

students left for Italy. � ey � ew across the Atlantic 

Ocean for a 2 night stay in Florence and a 3 night stay 

in Rome. In Florence they saw “� e Statue of David”, 

the Leaning Tower of Pisa and got to see how leather 

items were made. Once in Rome they began their 

guided walking tour to Trevi Fountain, the Spanish 

Steps, the Vatican and the Coliseum. Everyday they 

had the chance to eat gelato and authentic Italian pizza 

as well as shop, shop, shop. 

Field trip to Halifax: 

From March 16-20th, 2009, a trip was organized for 

youth interested in experiencing what life would be 

like in the military. � e Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg Band 

and K-Z School, with the assistance of Mr. Clarence 

Chabot and the Canadian Forces, o� ered youth an 

opportunity to travel to Halifax, Nova Scotia and 

spend 5 days touring the military bases in the area. � e 

youth, along with their chaperones, visited the Military 

Diving Unit, Air Force Base, Military museums and 

toured the HMCS Athabaskan (Navy Ship). One of 

the main purposes for this trip was to show the youth 

the many career opportunities that exist within the 

Canadian Forces. 16 youth participated in this unique 

opportunity along with 5 chaperones. We were also 

very much honored to be accompanied by our Chief, 

Gilbert Whiteduck, for a portion of the trip. Kichi 

Migwetch Jamie Commonda, Alison Commando, 

Clinton Commando, Mike Diabo, Shirley Whiteduck, 

and Clarence Chabot. 

from other fascinating trips and 

extracurricular activities. 

Sports/Spirits and Study 

Banquet Awards: 

New to Kitigan Zibi Kikinamadinan this year, was our 

way of recognizing our students’ accomplishments. In 

the previous years, we had separate award ceremonies 

for sports and academics; and this year, we combined the 

two and added live music. � is was a way to showcase 

not only our students’ talents, but to recognize their 

achievements on a much wider scale. Two separate 

ceremonies were held. One for Elementary students 

and parents and the other for High School students and 

parents. A great time was had by all. Congratulations to 

all of the 2008-09 and 2009-2010 recipients. 

Regional Science Fair 

Each year the Kitigan Zibi School holds a local Science 

Fair for students in Grades 4-6 and Secondary I-V. 

As well, each year the winners of our local science Fair 

attend a regional Science Fair for Aboriginal Students. 

� e science projects are always very interesting and 

educational for all. Kichi Migwech to families who 

support and encourage their children for the love of 

science. Bravo & Congratulations!!! 

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16 


High Performance 

Science Camp – Montreal: 

From May 22-24th, six students had the opportunity to 

participate in McGill McGill University’s Eagle Spirit 

High Performance Camp. � e focus of the camp was 

geared toward high school students between the ages of 

13-17 yrs. � e primary goal of Eagle Spirit Camp was 

to teach the youth that true success is a balance between 

academics, family, personal relationships, health, 

culture, and self esteem. Students were selected on the 

basis that they were already achievers in sports as well as 

academics. � roughout the camp there was a constant 

message to encourage youth to choose university as one 

of their next steps towards achieving their goals. � e 3 

day camp included in-class lectures, skills development, 

physical testing and social outings. Congratulations 

to Nigig Tolley, Wesley Tenasco, Brianna Decontie, 

Makwa Tenasco, Hayden Commando, and Awema 

Tendesi (students who have participated in the camp 

within the past). 

Hockey Tournaments: 

Floor-Hockey Teams: � e High School students were 

invited to participate in a � oor hockey tournament 

organized by Woodland school in the month of May. 

Two KZ teams attended the tournament, which was 

held in the Poly gym. � e KZ teams � nished 1st & 2nd 

in the tournaments and brought home a beautiful trophy. 

� e coaches of the KZ teams were Celine Whiteduck 

and Jan Cote. 

Sports are a huge part of our students’ life at KZ School! 

KZ High School Hockey Team: � e KZ School hockey 

team is comprised of boys and girls in high school. 

Here, the students get an opportunity to play in various 

tournaments throughout the region. � ese tournaments 

are hosted by other high schools such as Maniwaki 

Woodland, St. Mikes (Low), Pontiac (Shawville) and 

Symmes (Alymer). Andrew Commonda, Jan Cote and 

Michael McConini are the coaches of the KZ team 

who also organized our own tournament. 

High School Track & Field Day: 

� e high school students also participated in the annual 

Track & Field Day organized by Maniwaki Woodland 

School in the month of 

May. KZ came in 1st 

place throughout the 

day and was named top 

team overall. Individual 

awards were given to 

the top athletes of their 

respected age groups in 

which KZ won 5 of the 

6 awards. � e students 

who won these awards were: Cassandra Brennan, 

Khristopher Dewache, Jenna Dumont, Mariah Smith- 

Chabot and Nathan Matthews. � e coaches for the 

Track & Field are Celine Whiteduck, Mike Diabo and 

Jan Cote. 

High School Spring Running Team: � e high school 

spring running team started at the end of March and 

trained for a total of 9 weeks in preparation for the 

National Capital Race Weekend (5 km race). � ere 

were a total of � ve dedicated runners who trained on 

a daily basis during their lunch periods; they were: 

Gavin Decontie, Noah Dewache, Nigig Tolley, Nadia 

Whiteduck & Cory Brennan. Only Cory and Nadia 

attended the race event. � e coach of this team was 

Celine Whiteduck.

E-Spirit Trip to Kelowna: 

On May 11th to May 16th, 2009, the Secondary 5 

students travelled to Kelowna, B.C. to compete in the 

E-Spirit Business Plan competition. � ey presented 

� ve business plans in total: Aki Solutions (Sheldon 

McGregor), Ingines (Evan � ran & Amien Nottaway), 

Jerties Spa (Amy Sue Jerome & Jerika Wawatie), 

Mani-Migwam (Cassondra Commando & Caroline 

� usky) and Nish Tours Inc. (Caitlin Commando & 

Awema Tendesi). � ey were competing against 64 

other teams from across Canada; they had to present 

their plans through a tradeshow booth and PowerPoint 

presentation. All of the teams did an amazing job at 

being professional and organized. � e real prize was 

getting a free trip to beautiful Kelowna. Jerties Spa 

won the bronze prize while Nish Tours Inc. won the 

Team Spirit award and were � nalists in the presentation 

category. In between competitions, students were able 

to explore the beautiful Okanagan valley with their 

supervisors Amanda Buckshot, Alison Commando and 

Tim Odjick. � ank you to everyone who encouraged 

these young entrepreneurs! KZ School participtes 

within the E-spirit Business Plan competition on an 

annual basis! 

High School: 

As of 2007 the Kitigan Zibi high school program has 

been structured to correspond to the Quebec Education 

Program. Students at the high school level can follow 

one of the two academic paths; General, or Applied. 

Students successfully completing the required credits in 

the General Path will receive a Kitigan Zibi Secondary 

School Diploma. With the diploma, students can enter 

into most college programs and in some instances 

university level programs. Students following the 

Applied Path follow similar courses to the General Path, 

but the courses are modi� ed to the individual student’s 

level. Attainment of the required credits in this path also 

permit the student to enter into many Post Secondary 

programs, and depending on the credits attained, the 

student will either receive a Secondary school diploma 

or a Secondary school leaving certi� cate. 

At Kitigan Zibi school the Algonquin way of life is 

exceptionally valued and therefore must constitute 

part of the curriculum for students at all levels. In high 

school, students receive education in the Algonquin 

history, culture and language. � e diploma sanctioned 

by the school is unique to Kitigan Zibi and is recognized 

by Post Secondary Institutions across Canada. 

Kokomis/Mishomis Day: 

Once a year, our Kokomis/Mishomis Day occurs. Each 

year a speci� c date is chosen. During this time children 

spend the afternoon with their grandparents for fun 

activities played together. A light snack is served at the 

end of the afternoon. 

As well, Sta� will call upon parents/guardians to come 

& visit /participate or observe what the children are 

learning. 

Reviving Cultural Week at 

Kitigan Zibi Kikinamadinan 

A team of teachers, administrators and our fellow 

employees from other sectors have formed a committee 

this year to make sure that we revive our “Cultural Week” 

at Kitigan Zibi Kikinamadinan. � is week would be held 

the last week of October or the beginning of November 

2010. It would entail many activities within the 

school setting which would be the informal education 

for various cultural sckills, to promote our Algonquin 

Language and to celebrate our 30th anniversary of 

Kitigan Zibi Kikinamadinan. Such activities would be : 

- Outdoor camping 

- Setting snares 

- Skinning of small animals - � sh, beaver etc. 

- How to make an open � re 

- How to sew small items 

- Listen to an Native author 

� ese are only a few of the activities/workshops that are 

in the planning process at the moment. 

What an experience for all our elementary and high 

school students - something that will be memorable 

for all. More details will be forwarded to families as 

our agenda will be � nalized at the beginning of the new 

school year 2010-2011. 

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Public Speaking: 

On April 6th, 7th, 8th 2009, at 

the Cultural Centre, our students 

demonstrated their con� dence 

with their speeches at the Public 

Speaking event.. Sr. K to Grade 6 

participated. Various topics were 

introduced to the parents/families 

during the evening. 

Post Secondary Student 

Support Program 

� e Kitigan Zibi Education Sector’s Post Secondary 

Student Support Program is designed to assist registered 

Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg members to acquire college 

and/or university and professional quali� cations within 

the designated funding period. 

It is the hope of the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg that such 

individuals will become economically self su� cient and 

may realize their individual potentials for contribution 

to their Algonquin Nation, to other First Nations and 

to Society at large. 

� e Post Secondary Student Support Program- 

University and College Policy provides for � nancial 

assistance to individuals who have been accepted by 

a public accredited University and College program 

which normally requires completion of secondary school 

as a minimum academic requirement. � is includes 

those persons who are accepted with lesser academic 

quali� cations in recognition of the applicant’s maturity 

and potential for success in their chosen � eld study. 

� e Post Secondary Student Support Program 

O� cer provides services and program support 

to post secondary students all across Canada and 

parts of the United States. If you are interested in 

going back to school, please call (819) 449-1275 or 

1-888-440-1275.

KITIGAN ZIBI KIKINAMADINAN 

41 Kikinamage Mikan 

Maniwaki (Quebec) J9E 3B1 

Tel.: 819-449-1275 

Fax: 819-449-5503 

20

Kwey Kakina 

I just wanted to take this opportunity to 

reflect back on the time that I am 

grateful to have spent at the Health 

Centre. Both as Medical Clerk and 

Health Promotion Worker, I really 

enjoyed my time working here and with 

some great people. 

Over my 4 years here with KZHSS, there 

have definitely been many highlights. I 

enjoyed planning and organizing all the 

activities and events that benefited the 

community. One event that will always 

stick out in my mind is the Women’s Fair. 

I think we accomplished what we set out 

to do...make the women of this 

community feel special for one weekend 

and hopefully they in turn could bring a 

part of that into their everyday lives. 

I also enjoyed the weekends I spent with 

some amazing girls from this 

community—you know who you are. 

Our chalet weekends were often the 

highlight of my year. You beautiful girls 

have so much potential, I appreciate 

your inner beauty and I sincerely thank 

you all for the things you taught me 

during our time together...and I don’t 

just mean showing me how to text. You 

girls are awesome!!! You too Pam, my 

partner in crime, your Pam‐ness was 

always appreciated. 

Thanks also to my lovely ladies and 

gentleman that I accompanied once a 

month to the city. You taught me more 

than you’ll know about just about 

everything—recipes, cooking, and life in 

general. I loved hearing your funny 

stories and I now have an “enhanced” 

Algonquin vocabulary because of you 

(haha!). It was my pleasure to be your 

driver and I know I will miss our monthly 

“adventures”. Kichi Migwech. 

I also had the opportunity to work with a 

great group of people and will miss 

among other things: Lionel’s chats, 

Candice’s comebacks to Warren , 

Warren’s comebacks to Candice as well 

as his weekly “grocery runs” (don’t 

forget the pecan tarts), Celine’s “yeah 

right”, Doreen’s “Bien Oui”, Robin’s 

reality checks, Dean’s funny e‐mails 

(keep em’ comin), Alex and Chee Chee’s 

contagious laughter, Lynn's broccoli 

salad…mmm… brocolli salad, Charlotte’s 

caramel dip, Zick and Antoine’s 

helpfulness in setting up all my Ikea stuff 

and I’m sure I’ll miss all of the other 

people who made working here 

“entertaining” for lack of a better choice 

of words. Thanks to Doreen and Celine, 

two people who I could always count on 

for ideas, advice, help, but mostly and 

more importantly...laughs! 

I would also like to thank Jenny at 

Anishinabe Printing for putting up with 

my procrastinating‐perfectionist 

tendencies in wanting to get things just 

so, for pushing deadlines to the absolute 

limit, and for all the last minute changes 

she made for me...thank goodness we go 

way, way back :D. 

And I would also like to thank Lionel and 

Robin who have always given me so 

much liberty over these few years to try 

new things, as well as their confidence in 

me to undertake certain projects. I’ve 

learned so much here, working in my 

own community...there are certainly a 

lot of things they don’t teach you in 

school (and that just might be a good 

thing). 

As many of you know, I loved my job...in 

my opinion, it was the one on the Rez 

that was probably the most fun. Many 

of you want to know why I am leaving it. 

I guess it’s because I’ve come to realize 

that “making a living is not the same 

thing as making a life”. I’m looking 

forward to having more TIME to pursue 

personal goals related to my family, to 

my faith and my ministry, and perhaps 

even my education which I am sure will 

enrich mine and my daughter’s lives. I 

sometimes joke and say that I am going 

into semi‐retirement...I’ll work enough 

to support my family, but I’ll take the 

time to enjoy my little sweethearts’ 

company while they’re still with 

me...they do grow up so fast! So I will be 

taking on various casual employment 

opportunities within the community and 

I’m sure you’ll see me around. 

If I had to choose a topic for one last 

“health promotion message” before 

signing off, I think I would have to talk 

about something which has probably 

helped to get me to where I am in life 

and has never let me down. I just want 

to encourage people to never 

underestimate the power of a positive 

attitude. I know that it’s not always 

easy, it seems that there are times when 

we get so caught up with some of the 

little and granted, not‐so‐little things 

here “As the Rez Turns…” But I think 

when we see the glass as half full, half of 

our battle, whatever it may be, is half 

won. Just a thought...take it or leave it. 

Sincerely 

Deborah 

“Menace” 

Decontie 

ISSUE 

8 AUGUST 

2010 

RUNNING CLUB NEWS! 

The Running Club will no 

longer be having the weekly 

Running Clinics for the 

month of August., as the 

instructor is on vacation. 

I’d like to thank everyone 

who came out for this 

activity, I thought it was very 

interesting. Thanks also to 

our instructor, Richard 

Lefebvre who came up from 

the city every week to teach 

our clinic. I know there are 

a few of you who will be 

participating different races 

over the next few months, 

and I wish you all the best 

with that. 

If you would be interested in 

joining a running club in the 

Fall, let your new Health 

Promotion Worker know 

about it! 

KITIGAN ZIBI 

HEALTH & 

SOCIAL 

SERVICES HealthPromotion 

In this issue… 

Changes at the Health Centre P1 

Welcome on Board P2 

Who’s Who at the Health Centre P3 

Sign Off P4 

Changes at Kitigan Zibi Health & Social Services 

In this last newsletter that I’ll be putting together as Health Promotion Worker, I 

thought it might be a good idea to highlight some of the changes that we can expect to 

see at KZHSS. 

In the last little while new positions were opened up so this issue will introduce you to 

some new faces. There is also a Who’s Who page to keep track of which KZHSS 

employees you can find at which building. 

In the upcoming months, you will also hear a 

lot about the Enhanced Prevention Services 

Program that will be part of the services offered 

through KZHSS. It should be an exciting next 

couple of months. 

deborah decontie 

Health Promotion Worker 

KZA Community Information Meeting about 

Enhanced Prevention Services Program Development 

Thursday August 12, 2010 

Community Hall 

Free Spaghetti Supper 

5:30‐6:30 

Information Meeting 

6:30‐7:30 

Door Prizes to be Won! 

You are invited to come out 

to supper and then attend 

an information session 

outlining the new 

Enhanced Prevention 

Services Program develop‐ 

ment in Social Service deliv‐ 

ery at 315 Fafard Street 

coming soon.

Welcome on 

Hello, 

My name is Debbie Whiteduck and I am the Enhanced 

Prevention Services Coordinator. I am very excited to join the 

Kitigan Zibi Health and Social Services team. On August 12, 2010 

from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. you are invited to an information 

session on this new program development for our community. 

We hope to see you there. 

Debbie Whiteduck 

Enhanced Prevention Services Coordinator 

Kwey! 

I would like to introduce myself as the Executive Secretary for 

Kitigan Zibi Health and Social Services. I look forward to the new 

challenges and contributing to the dynamics of the Health and 

Social Services sector. This position will allow me to better 

understand the complexities of human services and the many 

different needs of the community in which I live. I am thankful for 

this opportunity! 

Pauline M. Whiteduck 

KZHSS Executive Secretary 

Kwey Community Members 

My name is Laurie Odjick (TT) and I have been hired as the new 

NNADAP worker for the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg Health and Social 

Services. I received and completed my formal training in addictions 

counselling at Canadore College. 

Although this is a new position for me, I promise to provide the best 

services possible through the NNADAP program. I will have an open 

door policy for community members who need to talk or need 

guidance/services. 

I can be reached at the Health Centre at 819.449.5593 or e‐mail me at 

laurie.odjick@kza.qc.ca. Migwech. 

Laurie Odjick 

NNADAP Worker 

Who’s Who at Kitigan Zibi Health & Social Services? 

The Health Centre 

Box 160, 8 Kikinamage Mikan 

Maniwaki, QC J9E 3B4 

819.449.5593 

Toll free: 1.866.660.5593 

DIRECTOR: 

Lionel Whiteduck 

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: 

Robin Decontie 

The Waseya House 


819.449.7425 

WASEYA HOUSE COUNSELLOR: 

Lynn Buckshot 

WASEYA HOUSE COUNSELLOR: 

Sue Thran 

FAMILY WELLNESS WORKER: 

Jolene Commonda 

MEDICAL CLERK: 

Rosalie Decontie 

COMMUNITY 

HEALTH NURSES: 

Jane McGregor 

Sheila Whiteduck 

IN‐HOME CARE 

COORDINATOR: 

Doreen Paul 

IN‐HOME 

CARE NURSE: 

Alexandra Brascoupe 

Nicole Buckshot (Part‐time) 

315 Fafard 

819.449.2323 

ENHANCED PREVENTION 

SERVICES COORDIANTOR: 

Debbie Whiteduck 

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY: 

Pauline Whiteduck 

MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION: 

Warren McGregor 

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 

& SAFETY TECHNICIAN: 

Celine Brazeau‐Ottawa 

HEALTH PROMOTION 

WORKER: 

To be Determined 

YES PROGRAM 

COORDINATOR: 

Dan Decontie 

MAINTENANCE WORKERS: 

Antoine Odjick 

James McDougall 

RECEPTIONIST: 

Candice Mitchell 

SOCIAL WORKERS: 

Chee Chee Stevens 

Donna Tenascon 

NNADAP WORKERS: 

Sandra Tenasco 

Laurie Odjick 

AFTER‐CARE WORKER: 

Dean Ottawa 

INCOME SECURITY OFFICER: 

Susan Commonda 

Kiweda Group Home 


819.449.6299 

KIWEDA & NICHOLAS 

STEVENS SUPERVISOR: 

Charlotte Commonda

Pakinawatik School People who make a difference at ... - Kitigan Zibi

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