The Islanders

Nelson Island School

I work at Nelson Island School.  It is called an "island" because there are rivers  - the Alaguchik and the "riveen" - on both sides of us leading to the ocean, creating an island of land.  Hence, we are the Islanders.  The image of a hunter in a kayak, spear poised, is emblazoned on all Toksook Bay wear and walls. 



 

The school was built in the 70s when the open-school model was popular and everything is built around a central common area.  In it are several artifacts and murals that have been built or donated by the community and depict life in the area.

 

Fish Trap

An impromptu singing/drumming session after school in the Commons.



                                                                                        Mural of native dance.



Mural of successful seal hunt. 

The other day, a father of a student brought around some beautiful seal skin hats that he was selling - for $350 each (apparently "a good deal"!)

 

Mushing sled.

Seal fur pouch.  Raincoat of seal intenstine. 

Where I hang my hat! (and mud boots and coat - and soon, my mittens).





I have had this hanging in my classroom for several years, and now have it over my desk.  It was my grandma's first teaching job offer - at a grand salary of $126.32 a month! She later had to quit the position in order to get married, since teachers at that time could not be! I love looking at that letter!