Îie-là-Crosse AHS
Welcome to Apisciawasisak Learning Centre
Located in the heart of Île-à-la-Crosse, Saskatchewan, Apisciawasisak Learning Centre is a warm and welcoming early learning environment. We are dedicated to nurturing young minds by combining foundational school readiness with rich cultural traditions, community connection, and a deep respect for the traditional way of life.
🌿 Culture, Language & Land-Based Learning
We believe that culture is the heart of learning.
· Michif Language: Children are introduced to the beautiful Michif language daily, incorporating basic words into our routines, counting, and color recognition.
· Traditional Ways of Life: Our programming includes the preparation of traditional foods, traditional clothing crafts, and learning about the log cabin culture.
· Movement & Music: We love to stay active and celebrate our culture through jigging and heading (traditional games).
🧸 Education & Play
We provide a supportive bridge between early childhood and formal schooling.
· School Readiness: Our curriculum is based on the Play and Exploration Guide, focusing on basic school readiness skills in a fun, engaging environment.
· Foundational Learning: We work on vital early literacy and numeracy skills, such as counting and color recognition, reinforced in both English and Michif.
🍎 Health, Nutrition & Wellness
Healthy bodies support healthy minds. We promote wellness through daily habits and nourishing food.
· Daily Wellness: We emphasize proper hand washing and provide dental care support (toothbrushes and toothpaste are supplied).
· Physical Activity: Our days include plenty of movement, including walks and gym time.
· Nourishing Meals: We provide healthy snacks featuring fresh veggies, fruit, and berries. We love to incorporate traditional foods into our meal planning, especially during our special Parent/Child Days. We also provide meals for parents and families during events.
🤝 A Family-Centered Community
We strongly believe that parents are a child's first and most important teacher. We foster a tight-knit community through:
· Monthly Gatherings: We host a Parent/Child Evening once a month, featuring crafts, gym time, and a chance to connect.
· Celebrations: We love to gather for community meals and events, including a Thanksgiving meal, a Christmas meal (complete with a Santa visit!), and an end-of-year Graduation celebration.
· Community Partnerships: We work closely with organizations like Kids First North, Early Years, and local Dental programs to ensure our families have access to the support they need.
ℹ️ Site Information & Hours
· Location: Île-à-la-Crosse, SK, S0M 1C0
· Phone: 1-306-833-2626
· Email: headstartpreschool@sasktel.net
· Facebook: Apisciawasisak Learning Centre
· Operating Hours: 4 days a week, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
· Capacity: 60 children (divided into 4 groups of 15)
· Average Yearly Enrollment: 40 children per year