Protecting and sharing Indigenous culture

Wagmatcookewey K-12 School

There is no better way to incorporate Indigenous culture into an educational facility than by involving the community for design advice. We helped execute the vision of Wagmatcookewey based on input from students to elders. The school embodies Mi'kmaq culture and identity while accommodating differentiated learning, evolving technology and teaching practices, and allowing for a variation in cohort size.

A safe, natural, and bright environment encourages formal and informal learning, while the Elders’ Centre, Mi'kmaq language room, inviting lobby, and cultural displays are open to the community. The south-sloping site faces the Bras D'Or Lakes and the lobby, forecourt, and green play areas celebrate this culturally-significant setting. Different species of deciduous trees in themed pods tell the story of Mi'kmaq ecological, cultural, and economic history.

Not only will this facility serve as a space to share Mi’kmaq culture, but the themes and designs of each room educate the next generation of students. With over 150+ students and growing each year, we have helped assure Wagmatcookewey culture is taught and shared for years to come.