The Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation (OFNTSC) proudly joined Biigtigong Nishnaabeg community members to celebrate the grand opening of a beautiful new school, a project four years in the making. The school stands as a beacon of hope, opportunity, and resilience, symbolizing a new era for the children and future leaders of the community.
"This project started as a shared vision between the community and OFNTSC—to build a school that would serve as a cornerstone for education and growth for generations to come," said Melanie Debassige, Executive Director of OFNTSC. "From the outset, this was more than just a construction project; it was a true partnership, one that we were committed to seeing through, no matter the challenges."
In collaboration with Keewatin-Aski Consultants and Architecture 49, OFNTSC worked closely with the community to ensure that the design and construction process met the specific needs and aspirations of the people it was meant to serve. The involvement of community-owned contractors, MKWA Contracting and Pic River Development Corp (PRDC), was a cornerstone of the project, ensuring that the economic benefits remained local and that the community had a direct hand in shaping the school’s future.
"A key priority was to ensure that this project was not only about building a new school but also about fostering economic development within the community," Melanie explained. "By working directly with local contractors, we were able to keep the economic benefits within the community while empowering local businesses and workers."
The success of the project is a testament to the dedication of many individuals within the community, including Debi Bouchie, Director of Operations; Dan Michano, Capital Project Manager; and Lisa Michano, Director of Education. Their leadership and unwavering commitment to the children and the community played a crucial role in bringing the vision to life.
"This new school is not just a building; it is a symbol of hope and opportunity for the children who will walk these halls," Melanie noted. "It represents a new chapter where they can learn, grow, and thrive in an environment designed to support their development."
The new school replaces the old facility, which had served the community since the early 1950s. With modern amenities and a design that reflects the cultural and educational needs of the community, the school promises to be a place where future leaders, innovators, and changemakers will emerge.
OFNTSC’s entire engineering team, including project manager Darko Dimitrijevic and Tricia Hamilton, were also recognized for their dedication throughout the project. Their involvement in every design and construction meeting ensured that the community’s needs were at the forefront of every decision.
As the community celebrates this grand opening, the focus remains on the children and the bright future that lies ahead. OFNTSC expressed its pride in being a part of this journey and its commitment to supporting the community in the years to come.
"Thank you, and congratulations to everyone who played a part in making this day a reality. We look forward to witnessing the incredible achievements that will come from this new school and the bright future it promises for the children of this community."