Piyesiw Awasis (Thunderchild) School
Thunderchild First Nation, Saskatchewan
Piyesiw Awasis School is a Nursery to Grade 12 school serving over 270 students in Thunderchild First Nation, located near Turtleford, Saskatchewan.
Thunderchild First Nation has long been a leader in First Nations education. Guided by the wisdom of Elders and the Chief, Thunderchild is building a Thunderchild-controlled education system rooted in Nêhiyaw understandings, perspectives, and ways of knowing. The school has transitioned to a 12-month school year to incorporate ceremonial and land-based learning through the summer months. Instructional and holiday days remain on par with other Saskatchewan schools, just allocated differently. The academic program is grounded in Thunderchild teachings, the spiritual connections to Mother Earth, (Askiy Pimatsiwin) and the spoken Cree language. Summer months emphasize spiritual growth through ceremony and meaningful connection to the land.
At Piyesiw Awasis School, we are committed to creating a safe, healthy, and predictable environment where awāsisak (children) develop Good Minds, Kind Hearts, and Strong Spirits.
Our Guiding Framework: PISIM
PISIM is the foundation of our school culture, embedding Nêhiyaw values, principles, and teachings into daily learning and life. It reflects Thunderchild Nêhiyaw identity, language revitalization, and spiritual connection to the land.
Pimatisowin – Celebrating and living life with a positive attitude
Ispihteyitamowin – Holding high regard for oneself and others; believing in your inner strength
Sahkitowin – Loving and caring for oneself, others, and all life
Instotamowin – Understanding, practicing, and valuing all teachings and learning
Manacihtowin – Respect for oneself, others, and all Creation
In order to achieve PISIM, wahkôtowin (relationships) is our foundation.
Our Commitment to Students
Piyesiw Awasis School is implementing a Thunderchild-centered curriculum that honors Thunderchild content, perspectives, history, and language while meeting Saskatchewan Ministry of Education requirements.
We are a student-centered school that:
- Provides strong, ongoing teacher professional development to improve learning outcomes
- Develops student literacy, numeracy, and communication skills
- Offers holistic supports that nurture the whole child
We Are Inviting Applications From Teachers Who:
- Are passionate about culturally grounded, land-based, and community-centered education
- Value holistic student development
- Are committed to innovation and collaboration
- Want to contribute meaningfully to a growing, visionary education system
Employee Experience
- BlueCross Health and Wellness benefits
- Community has new state-of-the-art Wellness Centre
- Unique opportunity to learn about and live a community’s traditional ceremonies, teachings, and worldview
- Teacher housing may be available, subject to availability
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Education from an accredited university
- Saskatchewan Professional “A” Teaching Certificate (or another provincial equivalent)
- Valid Class 5 Driver’s License (or provincial equivalent) and access to a personal vehicle