Well the excitement of Gagwegakendamaawiziwin has come and gone for another year. This year, we held the event at Pegamigaabo School, in Big Grassy First Nation just before the Easter long weekend.

As always, it was an exciting time for the students, who must compete with other schools in the Anishinaabe language.

For those who do not know what or where this game came from, let me explain. The original idea came from our old language coordinator, Wilf Cyr. The game is derived from an old television show called ‘Reach for the Top’ in which schools would answer various questions while sitting across from each other; highest score wins.

Our hook was, the answers all had to be in Anishinaabemowin. We then changed the name to Quest For Knowledge. That was about 12 years ago at the very least. Over time, the game had to change. With the original setting, we would have up to 12 schools competing, both with junior and senior divisions of 6 per team. Two teams for the junior and two teams for the seniors at any given time would be competing. That would leave a lot of students roaming around waiting their turn. Crowd control became an issue, and we needed to do something.

With that in mind, the solution became easy, just add more games. We also changed the name to Gagwegakendamaawiziwin. Now the students are faced with Gichi-Wenoodizid (Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?), Aandawaabajigw (Anishinaabe Scavenger Hunt), Maamoochigenidamoog Gikendaasowin (Quest for Knowledge), Wewiibitoon (Shape/Mold It), and Nagamowinan (they all make a classroom/team cheer, which is performed in front of the judges and audience).

Now you may be thinking that, that is a lot for a grade six student to remember, but it’s not that bad. The Anishinaabe Language Instructors are given the answers, or a guide book in September to work out of. So by the time April arrives, all of the schools should be on the same playing field.

The objectives for this event are simple; Our Language is our Culture - with learning the language brings the transfer of knowledge between generations. Gagwegakendamaawiziwin will further students understanding of their language, culture and traditions.

We would like to thank all the Anishinaabe Language Instructors, chaperones, Pegamaboo School, Elder Judges and support staff for all their good help. Without them, it could not happen.

May Jameson Cecillia Whitefield Dan Big George Verna Big George

Pamela Big George Yvette Big George Albert Comegan Brian Major

Mary Jane Kewakundo Pasty Friday Josphine Potson Doris Caribou

Sharlene Smith Adrine Snowball Rachel Snowball

We apologize if we missed anyone

This years winners are:

Junior Division

1st - Mine Centre School

2nd - Crossroads

3rd - Robert Moore

Senior Division

1st - JW Walker

2nd - Crossroads

3rd - Robert Moore

Congratulations to all of the students, especially when all the scores were close. We hope to see you next year at Onegaming High School.