St. Frances Cree Bilingual School, a beacon of Indigenous language and cultural revitalization in Saskatoon, Canada, is embarking on a transformative journey marked by a new name and a state-of-the-art facility. The school, soon to be known as awâsisak kâ-nîmîhtocik – St. Francis School, is embracing a name that deeply resonates with its core values and commitment to Indigenous education. The Cree name, translating to “the children that dance,” encapsulates not only the vibrancy and energy of the student body but also serves as a poignant tribute to past generations, particularly those affected by the residential school system. This renaming represents a significant step towards reconciliation and healing, honoring the memory of those who were lost and empowering current and future students to embrace their heritage.
The new name, awâsisak kâ-nîmîhtocik, is rich in symbolism and meaning. “awâsisak” refers to the children, the heart of the school’s mission, reflecting the nurturing and supportive environment provided to young learners. “kâ-nîmîhtocik,” referencing the northern lights, connects the school to the ancestral spirits and the wisdom of those who came before. This connection to the past reinforces the school’s dedication to preserving and promoting Indigenous knowledge and traditions. The name change, resulting from months of consultation with the community, underscores the school’s collaborative approach and commitment to reflecting the voices and aspirations of Indigenous families.
The school’s physical transformation mirrors the profound shift embodied in its new name. The architectural design incorporates distinct Cree elements, including a central courtyard conceived as an outdoor gathering space. This courtyard will serve as a venue for cultural ceremonies, such as mini powwows and round dances, providing students with tangible experiences that connect them to their cultural heritage. This integration of Indigenous design principles reflects the school’s holistic approach to education, recognizing the interconnectedness of learning, culture, and community. The new building symbolizes a fresh start, a tangible manifestation of the school’s commitment to Indigenous language and cultural revitalization.
The journey towards this transformative moment began in 2007 with a partnership between St. Frances and the Saskatoon Tribal Council, initiating Cree language and cultural programming. Over the years, this program has blossomed into the largest of its kind in Canada, serving over 600 students from diverse neighbourhoods and communities. This remarkable growth underscores the significant demand for Indigenous language education and the vital role that St. Frances plays in meeting this need. The school’s success serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and community engagement in fostering Indigenous language and cultural revitalization.
The construction of the new school, initiated in the summer of 2023 after funding was secured in 2018, is progressing steadily towards its anticipated opening in the fall of 2025. Located at the corner of 7th Street East and Grosvenor Avenue, the new facility promises to be a state-of-the-art learning environment that reflects the school’s dedication to providing a culturally responsive education. The significant community interest in the new school highlights the importance of this initiative and its potential to serve as a model for future Indigenous language schools. The project’s progress embodies the community’s shared vision for a brighter future for Indigenous education.
The renaming of St. Frances Cree Bilingual School to awâsisak kâ-nîmîhtocik – St. Francis School represents a pivotal moment in the school’s history and for Indigenous education in Canada. This transformation reflects not only a change in name but a profound shift in perspective, embracing a future where Indigenous languages and cultures are celebrated and revitalized. The school’s commitment to providing a culturally rich and academically rigorous education is evident in every aspect of its transformation, from the symbolic meaning of its new name to the thoughtfully designed learning spaces. awâsisak kâ-nîmîhtocik – St. Francis School stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, community engagement, and the unwavering pursuit of educational excellence rooted in Indigenous knowledge and traditions.
