Qaqqalik School

About Qaqqalik School

Grade 12 school located in Kimmirut, Nunavut. The students are supported by a staff of about 13 members. The staff are dedicated, professional and wonderful individuals. 

Inuuqatigiit and Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ Principles) are the foundations of schooling in Nunavut. Encouraging the students' growth and development is at the heart of what they do. The teachers and staff want their school to be a place where students learn how to make sense of their world and act to change it. They do this by encouraging their students to think critically.

In collaboration with the Kimmirut DEA (District Education Authority), Elders, the community and parents/guardians, the school works to ensure the classrooms are learning communities. Learning strategies at the school include developing students' cooperative skills so they can improve their self-expression, conflict resolution, problem-solving and communication.

MISSION STATEMENT: 

To create a safe, positive environment where all individuals have equal opportunity to grow and learn by building on each others' strengths and values. We also seek to promote resiliency and diversity in our ever-changing world of traditional and contemporary lifestyles.

Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit Principles

From its start in 1999, Nunavut has been guided by Inuit societal values. They continue to be guided by these principles as they address challenges and step forward together towards a brighter future:

• Inuuqatigiitsiarniq: Respecting others, relationships and caring for people.

• Tunnganarniq: Fostering good spirits by being open, welcoming and inclusive.

• Pijitsirniq: Serving and providing for family and/or community.

• Aajiiqatigiinniq: Decision making through discussion and consensus.

• Pilimmaksarniq/Pijariuqsarniq: Development of skills through observation, mentoring, practice, and effort.

• Piliriqatigiinniq/Ikajuqtigiinniq: Working together for a common cause.

• Qanuqtuurniq: Being innovative and resourceful.

•Avatittinnik Kamatsiarniq: Respect and care for the land, animals and the environment.

Some Vocabulary in Inuktitut:

English Inuktitut Phonetics

Good Morning Ullaakkut Oo-laa-koot

Good Day Ullukkut Oo-loo-koot

Thank you Nakurmiik Na-koo-meek

Welcome (3+ people) Tunngasugitsi * tunga-sue-vit-see

You are welcome Ilaali Ee-lah-li

Yes Ii Ee

No Aagga Ah-ga

Kayak Qajaq Kai-yak

Polar Bear Nanuq Naa-nook

Seal Nattiq Naa-tuck

Caribou Tuttu To-too

Narwhal Tuugaalik Two-gaa-lick