Mamawi Atosketan Native School

Mamawi Atosketan Native School (MANS) is an independent Christian educational institution located just north of Ponoka, Alberta, Canada. It operates as a Seventh-day Adventist school with a unique mission to serve the indigenous communities in the region.

History

The school's history began in the 1984-85 school year when an Adventist pastor, Basil Van Diemen, conducted outreach to the Native people around Hobbema, Alberta. Initially, it was named the Samson Adventist Private School, serving the Samson band on the Hobbema reservation. Over time, several Adventist schools were established nearby to serve different native bands. However, these schools faced challenges with accessing facilities, leading to the consolidation of schools into a single regional institution, which became Mamawi Atosketan Native School in 1992.

Purpose and Philosophy

Mamawi Atosketan Native School is designed to provide a comprehensive educational environment that integrates physical, mental, spiritual, and social well-being. The name "Mamawi Atosketan" means "Working Together" in Cree, reflecting its commitment to collaboration with the communities it serves. The school aims to foster a violence-free learning community, promoting mutual respect and innovative practices within a distinctly Cree environment. It serves the four bands of the Maskwacis Cree Nation and is notable for its accreditation from the North American Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Programs and Impact

Mamawi Atosketan Native School offers K-9 education, providing students with a holistic learning experience that emphasizes safety, confidence, and enthusiasm for education. The school's approach is centered on building strong relationships between parents and the educational process, leading to positive outcomes in the lives of its students.

Registration and Finance

The school is funded through tuition grants from the native bands it serves and contributions from the Adventist church. This unique funding model allows it to operate independently while maintaining strong community ties. As a nonprofit organization, Mamawi Atosketan Native School has a distinct business registration number.

Campus and Developments

In recent years, significant developments have taken place at the school, including the construction of new facilities to enhance educational capabilities. These initiatives have further integrated the school into the fabric of the community it serves, promoting a sense of unity and shared purpose in education.