Tânisi, Alexander First Nation Community,

I introduce myself as the new Principal of Kipohtakaw Education Centre. My name is Rajnish Vig (Raj). I am honored to start this journey with you in the circle of teaching, learning, and growing together.

This year is my 28th in education. I hold a Master of Science in Physics, a Master of Education, a Project Management Professional certification, Indigenous Education credentials, and several other professional qualifications. More than any degree or title, the relationships, stories, and shared moments with students, staff, and families have shaped who I am today as an educator.

For over two decades, I have taught high school physics and mathematics, as well as junior high science and mathematics. I also served as Vice Principal for 10 years and Principal for 3 years in another First Nation community in Alberta. These roles taught me that every child has gifts, strengths, and dreams. Every child can learn when nurtured in a safe, caring, and culturally grounded environment.

I come to Alexander First Nation not just to lead, but to listen. I am here to learn from your wisdom, honor your nehiyaw wayasowewina, and walk alongside you in creating an educational experience rooted in language, culture, identity, and land.

My focus will be clear:

– To strengthen Cree language, culture, and land-based education

– To ensure every child is seen, heard, and celebrated

– To connect learning to culture in every classroom

– To build strong students academically, socially, emotionally, physically, and spiritually

– To help our children become proud, empowered leaders of tomorrow

To the parents, caregivers, and community members—you are vital partners in this journey. My door will always be open to your ideas, concerns, and dreams for our children. In the coming days, I will talk to each homeroom teacher to identify key parent contacts, and I invite you to visit the school so we can start building these important bridges together.

Let us pray for our students—for their safety, strength, wisdom, and future. Let us join hands in community and support one another as we begin another school year filled with hope, responsibility, and possibility.

Hiy Hiy.

With gratitude and commitment,

Rajnish Vig (Raj)  

Principal  

Kipohtakaw Education Centre