Celebrating KiHS

Miigwech

Some heartfelt words from those whose lives have been affected by KiHS

I am really proud to be part of  KiHS Deer Lake as we celebrate 25 years. Growing up and learning here on the reserve has shaped who I am. Our mentor, Elders, and community members always support us, encourage us, and remind us where we come from. Thank you for believing in us and giving us a place to learn, grow, and feel at home. Happy 25th Anniversary to KiHS Team!

Gr. 11 Student Deer Lake

Happy 25th Anniversary for our KiHS
Where our children learn
Through the staff done so much for our children
Our children can have an option to go
Out for high school or can stay another
year if (child) is not ready to go
Their goal is to finish high school
We are proud of our children
I like praise & joy. Best wishes to staff & Children
GOD BLESS everyone and keep going.

Community member

HAPPY 25TH ANNIVERSARY!! Thank you for the best support you’ve given us from the very beginning, we look forward to seeing more success from across the nation 🙂

Grade 12 graduate, MFFN

The Muskrat Dam KiHS Class of 2026 truly has so much to celebrate, and IFNA is absolutely honoured to be included in these milestone moments.

Please extend our heartfelt congratulations to all Muskrat Dam KiHS potential graduates, we are cheering you on every step of the way as you cross that finish line. Each and every one of you has shown tremendous strength, perseverance, and dedication.

Please also pass along our appreciation to Sangchul and Myungsoo, and to your entire educational leadership team, for the dedication and care you pour into every learner. It truly takes a village, and your village is exceptional.

Lesley Anderson
Education Director
Secondary Student Services Program, IFNA

Dear KIHS Team,
I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for the incredible opportunity you have provided me to complete my education and earn my high school diploma after a break of almost 22 years.
Your commitment to making education accessible, affordable, and convenient has truly transformed the lives of many, including myself. The flexibility of your online platform has allowed me to pursue my academic goals from anywhere in the world, breaking down barriers of colour, culture, and creed.
Thank you for being a beacon of support and for paving the way for both young and old generations. Your dedication to education is not only commendable but also invaluable. The impact you have made on our lives is profound, and words cannot fully express my appreciation.
Thank you once again for your unwavering support and for making education a reality for everyone.

An Adult Student from Slate Falls Nation

I want to share my heartfelt gratitude with KiHS, my mentor, and all my teachers who stood by me throughout my education. Looking back, their support was more than just academic; it was a lifeline. They provided a space where I felt seen and encouraged, and that made a profound difference in my life.
Now, as a mother balancing the joys of parenthood with the rigours of a pre-health program, I find myself reflecting on those lessons daily. The patience and guidance I received at KiHS gave me the resilience I need today. They didn’t just teach me curriculum—they taught me how to believe in my own potential and how to keep pushing forward, even when the path gets steep. I am deeply grateful for the foundation they helped me build, which now allows me to create a better future for myself and my children. 

Fiona Evan Jane Kenequanash, Class Valedictorian 2025

From the Land to Graduation: The Winters Family’s Journey with KiHS

I would like to express my deepest gratitude for having Keewaytinook Internet High School in our community. This program has been such a blessing not only for my family, but also for many of our friends and co-workers who were able to obtain their Grade 12 because of it. For many people, moving away to attend school was simply not an option. Some had full-time jobs, while others faced challenges attending urban high schools for various reasons. KiHS made education possible for them in a way that respected their realities and responsibilities.
What made KiHS so special was its flexibility. Students could log in online anytime and from anywhere, allowing them to balance school with work, family life, and cultural responsibilities. The school offered a wide range of courses—from locally developed to applied and academic—as well as a COOP program that helped students gain valuable experience.
Our family has always valued spending time on the land. We often travel to our camp to go moose hunting, fishing, or simply to reconnect with nature. In recent years, when Starlink became available, it made it even easier for our children to stay connected to their learning while being out on the land with us. There were even moments when we would be floating down the river while waiting for moose, and at the same time they would be logged in, continuing their schoolwork. Those are memories that truly show how education and our way of life can exist together.
The end of this school year is especially meaningful and emotional for me. Our youngest daughter, Jasmine, will be the very last Winters in our family to graduate from KiHS. Every member of the Winters family has earned their Grade 12 through KiHS. Our oldest daughter, Jessilyn, was the first to graduate in 2017, followed by our son Jayson in 2020. Their dad, Desmond, proudly graduated in 2024, and my daughter-in-law Kylie followed in 2025. Now Jasmine will continue that legacy. KiHS has truly been a part of our family’s journey for many years.
I would also like to recognize the mentors who played such an important role in my children’s and my husband’s educational journeys. Their support, patience, and encouragement made such a difference. Without them, many of these achievements would not have been possible. Thank you to former mentor Raj for never giving up on Jessilyn and Jayson and for always encouraging them to keep going. Thank you as well to Salvador for your constant support and encouragement to Desmond, Kylie and now to Jasmine. She will definitely miss your “pancit” and banana bread! These small acts of kindness meant so much and will always be remembered. You were more than mentors—you were part of their journey, helping guide them toward success and their Grade 12 diploma.
Lastly, I want to thank KiHS for giving our people the opportunity to earn their education in the comfort and safety of their own community and homes. Because of KiHS, many graduates now have the confidence and opportunity to continue their education and pursue meaningful careers.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for making this possible for our family and for so many others.
 
 

Lisa Marie Winters

Innovation in Education

Our Focus in December is the circle of support we receive. KiHS could not do the work we do without our partnerships.


This month we turn our attention to the staff

Virtual Student Thank You Wall