Bernard Constant Community School

About BCCS

History of the community of James Smith Cree Nation:
This first nation received its name from the original chief; who signed Treaty No. 6 in 1876 At Fort Carlton The population at the time was 134 members or 32 families. The James Smith Cree Nation is located 58 kilometers east of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, and is 15,099 hectares in size. This first nation has a present population of 3,412, with the on-reserve population estimated to be 1,892 members. The original language spoken is Cree. James Smith Cree Nation lands are situated on the south and north side of the Saskatchewan River on the south side there are fertile lands for farming and the north side of the river there are forestry lands for hunting, fishing, trapping, and gathering.

The school is focused on Pow Wow, land based learning, language revitalization and is dedicated to creating a strong sense of community with humor and resiliency. James Smith Cree Nation in September of 2022 had a violent attack in the community with many lost and injured, they will need trauma-informed practices, support, patience and consideration as they walk their healing journey.

Basic Phrases in Cree:

Hello!     Tansi  (tan-i-si)

Thank you!   Kinanaskimotin (kin-an-as-ko-mi-tin))

Good bye!    Kitom Kawapamitin (Ke-tom Ki-ka-wa-pa-mi-tin)