News

GAKIJIWANONG ANISHINAABE NATION, ONTARIO – June 18, 2026

Zhingwaako Zaaga’igan School proudly celebrated the achievements of nine graduates during its 2026 Graduation Ceremony held on June 18, 2026, in the school gymnasium at Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation.

The ceremony brought together families, Elders, community members, Chief and Council, school staff, and friends to honour students as they completed important milestones in their educational journeys. This year’s graduating class included two Grade 12 graduates, four Grade 8 graduates, and three Kindergarten graduates, each recognized for their dedication, perseverance, academic achievement, and personal growth.

The celebration began with opening prayers offered by Elder Danny Geyshick, followed by an Opening and Honour Song performed by Norman Jordan, Council member and the community drummers, creating a meaningful and culturally significant start to the ceremony and recognizing the accomplishments of the graduates.

Throughout the ceremony, students were recognized for their achievements while families and community members gathered to celebrate their success and future aspirations.

Honourable Chief Carrie Atatise-Norwegian congratulated the graduates on reaching this important milestone and expressed pride in their accomplishments. She encouraged them to pursue their dreams with confidence, carry their culture with pride, and remember that the entire Gakijiwanong community stands behind them as they move forward into the next chapter of their journey.

The Director of Operations, Randy Councillor also extended congratulations to the graduating class and acknowledged the hard work of students, families, staff, and community members who contributed to student success throughout the school year.

During her address, Interim Principal Poonam Arora reflected on the significance of Graduation Day as a once-in-a-lifetime milestone at each stage of a student’s educational journey.

JP Coordinator, Prescilla Jourdain also congratulated the graduates and their families, recognizing the commitment, resilience, and achievements demonstrated by the students.

A special highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of Autumn Labbott-Ottertail, Valedictorian as well, who was announced as the recipient of the Connected North Scholarship, recognizing her dedication to education, leadership potential, and future aspirations.

The graduation ceremony reflected the values of education, culture, community, and collective support that continue to guide the students of Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation. The event also recognized the important role played by parents, guardians, Elders, Chief and Council, school staff, and community members in helping students achieve success.

Chief Carrie and Council Member Janelle Jourdain honoured the high school graduates with Star Blankets, a meaningful cultural recognition symbolizing respect, achievement, and the support of the community as students move forward into the next stage of their journey.

The ceremony also included a special staff recognition segment, during which all staff members were acknowledged for their dedication, commitment, and contributions to student success throughout the school year.

Kaelyn Walton, Lance Geyshick, and Nikki Jordan were also acknowledged for successfully completing their Teaching Assistant Diplomas, recognizing their commitment to professional growth, lifelong learning, and supporting the educational success of students in Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation.

Following the ceremony, graduates, families, staff, and guests gathered for a community lunch and celebration. The day concluded with baseball activities and community fellowship, providing graduates and their families an opportunity to celebrate together and create lasting memories.

Zhingwaako Zaaga’igan School extends its sincere congratulations to all graduates and wishes them continued success as they move forward into the next chapter of their educational and personal journeys.

About Zhingwaako Zaaga’igan School

Zhingwaako Zaaga’igan School serves the students and families of Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation and is committed to providing quality education that supports academic achievement, student well-being, cultural learning, leadership development, and lifelong success.

Media Contact:

Poonam Arora
Interim Principal
Zhingwaako Zaaga’igan School
Phone: (807) 485-2402
Email: poonam.a@ganation.ca