Rooted in Culture.
Guided by Learning.
We walk to strengthen our Anishinaabe way and our goal is to build a better, stronger, healthier life for the Anishinaabeg.
Building Community. Strengthening Culture. Enriching Minds.
Gaagagekiizhik Elementary School and Bimose Community High School are proudly owned and operated by Kiizhik Education Corporation, an Indigenous-led organization established by Bimose Tribal Council to provide a learning environment where academic achievement and Anishinaabe culture grow together.
The name Gaagagekiizhik GaKinoo’amaawadiiwi’gamig GaKinoo’amaawasowin was gifted through an Anishinaabe ceremony and symbolizes the sky, cedar, and learning lodge – teachings that continue to guide our students every day.
In September 2015, Gaagagekiizhik Elementary School opened its doors with 15 students from Kindergarten to Grade 2, creating the first school of its kind in Ontario to fully integrate the Ontario curriculum with daily Anishinaabemowin language, cultural teachings, and land-based learning. What began as a vision has grown into a thriving Kindergarten to Grade 12 learning community that now includes Bimose Community High School.
Today, students from Kenora and many surrounding First Nation communities choose Kiizhik Education Corporation because of its unique approach to education; one that combines strong academics with language revitalization, cultural identity, wellness, and individualized support. Every student is encouraged to learn while building confidence, leadership, and pride in who they are.
Learning at our school extends far beyond the classroom. Students participate in daily Anishinaabemowin language teachings, Elder and Traditional Knowledge Keeper teachings, land-based education, cultural ceremonies, healthy nutrition programs, outdoor experiences, and hands-on learning opportunities that prepare them for lifelong success.
More than a school, Kiizhik Education Corporation is a place where students are supported academically, culturally, emotionally, and spiritually: walking together in learning while strengthening the next generation of Anishinaabe leaders.
Bimose Tribal Council creates Kiizhik Education Corporation with a vision of providing an education that combines academic excellence with Anishinaabe language, culture, and traditional teachings.
Gaagagekiizhik Elementary School welcomes its first class of 15 students, becoming Ontario's first school of its kind to fully integrate the Ontario curriculum with daily Anishinaabemowin language and cultural learning.
As enrollment continued to grow, additional grades were introduced while maintaining small class sizes, individualized learning, and a strong focus on culture, wellness, and community.
Today, Kiizhik Education Corporation proudly operates both Gaagagekiizhik Elementary School and Bimose Community High School, serving students from Kenora and surrounding First Nation communities through an education rooted in culture, language, and lifelong learning.