Helen Kalvak School

Ulukhaktok, NT

In 1965, materials for the Holman Federal School were airlifted into the community. The community used to host gatherings in two small portables, as well as day classes for children. The portables were located on the current site of HKE. At that time, there was no gymnasium or activity room. Having two classrooms for all the students and community member's gatherings was very challenging. A new school was built begining in 1983 and was completed shortly after the passing of its namesake, local artist Helen Kalvak. Helen, born in 1901, passed in 1984. In 1984-85, Ulukhaktok Elihavik School opened its doors for students in K-9. A town-wide naming competition that year resulted in its eventual permanent name. In 1985-86, Helen Kalvak Elihakvik began it's inaugral year. In 1995, the "new" school had a makeover where it received a large gymasium. This allowed the former gym/recreation hall to be converted into a library. In 2000, then principal, and local Inuvialuit, Helen Kitekudlak brought grade 10 to HKE. The following two years, HKE grew to offer grade 11 and 12. In 2003, HKE had its first two high school graduates. Since 2003, HKE has an additional 78 graduates! This number will continue to grow as we HKE has developed a balanced academic and culturally responsive learning experience for the youth of Ulukhaktok.