The 2025 NSITEP graduating class. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

milestone

NSITEP marks third graduation class

May 26, 2025 | 4:54 PM

Thirteen graduates of the Northern Saskatchewan Indigenous Teacher Education Program (NSITEP) in La Ronge received their Bachelor of Education degrees on Friday.

The ceremony, which included residents from several northern communities, occurred at the Jonas Roberts Memorial Community Centre. Program Head Dr. Morris Cook acted as the master of ceremonies.

“Our graduates have all the skills to teach anywhere in Saskatchewan, anywhere in North America as far as I am concerned, because they have a beautiful blend of foundations that are set by the University of Regina … but also our Woodland and Métis cultures combined,” he told those in attendance.

“As Indigenous Peoples, our values have endured for generations in this country, and they will continue to endure for many generations to come. Our graduates will go into classrooms and empower our youth, and we do need a lot of empowerment. As you know, we still have a lot of struggles in our communities, but it will get better.”

Cook explained education represents values, democracy and fairness. He said with education also comes opportunities.

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“There’s a shortage of teachers everywhere. Our teachers will never be without a job if they want one,” Cook added.

This marks the third cohort of students who have graduated from NSITEP, which began in 2019 in response to the closure of the Northern Teacher Education Program in 2017.

NSITEP was founded by the Lac La Ronge Indian Band and the Gabriel Dumont Institute in partnership with the University of Regina. There are currently 60 full-time teacher students in the program.

The 2025 NSITEP graduates include Ramona Caisse, Charlie Cook, Camellia Couillonnuer, Betty Durocher, Rebecca Green, Noreen Maurice, Katherine Mirasty, Amanda Misponas, Joanne Morin, Miranda Ratt, Samantha Ratt, Theresa Roberts, and Troy Young.

Betty Durocher received the NSITEP Iskotēw Community Fires Award, while Miranda Ratt took home the award for Strength and Perseverance. The Community Fires Award recognizes exceptional graduating educators who embody the spirit of community-building through culturally responsive teaching practices.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com