School Profile

Home of the All-Stars
Kindergarten to Grade 8
Manitowaning, Ontario

Assiginack Public School is a vibrant K–8 school located in the heart of Manitowaning – “The Village by the Bay.”

We proudly serve families from the townships of Assiginack and Tehkummah. Our name, rooted in Ojibwe tradition, means “Den of the Great Spirit.”

🏫 ABOUT OUR SCHOOL

Our one-level building features a large outdoor play area with a soccer field, baseball diamond, Gaga Pit, basketball court, and play structure. We’re currently developing an outdoor education space with raised garden beds, bird and bat houses, and native medicinal plants—designed to support hands-on, experiential learning in a natural environment.

📚 OUR PROGRAMS

• Evidence-Based Literacy Focus: We’ve introduced early reading screening in Kindergarten to Grade 2 and prioritize phonics-based instruction across all grades.
• Kindergarten through Inquiry: Learning is driven by student interests, supported by inquiry-based teaching.
• Language and Culture:
  • Kindergarten to Grade 3: Ojibwe language and culture through the arts
  • Grades 4 to 8: Choice of Core French or Ojibwe as a second language
• Colour-House Teams: All students join multi-age colour houses for school-wide events and leadership opportunities led by the Principal’s Council.

🪶 INDIGENOUS EDUCATION

At Assiginack Public School, we are committed to honouring and integrating Indigenous perspectives, language, and culture into the daily life of our school.

Our staff includes both an Ojibwe Language Teacher and an Indigenous Support Worker who play a vital role in creating a supportive and inclusive environment.

• The Ojibwe Language Teacher supports students in learning the language and culture through dedicated instruction from Kindergarten to Grade 8.
• The Indigenous Support Worker promotes a welcoming and respectful school environment for Indigenous students and their families. This role supports smooth transitions into and through school, encourages student well-being, and works collaboratively with families and staff to enhance academic achievement and a sense of belonging.

Through these supports and a focus on cultural inclusion, APS helps students build identity, confidence, and community connections.

⚽ ATHLETICS AND SCHOOL SPIRIT

Students at APS can participate in a wide variety of team sports and physical activities that promote healthy lifestyles, teamwork, and school pride:

• Cross-country
• Baseball
• Three-pitch
• Volleyball
• Basketball
• Soccer
• Track & Field
• Badminton

Our teams take part in tournaments and events across Manitoulin Island and beyond, building athletic skills and strong school spirit.

🤖 CLUBS AND LEADERSHIP

Beyond athletics, APS offers a range of clubs and leadership opportunities that encourage creativity, collaboration, and student voice:

• Chess Club
• Robotics Club
• Principal’s Council – A student leadership group that helps plan and lead school events, including multi-age colour-house activities and spirit days

These opportunities allow students to explore their interests, develop confidence, and take an active role in shaping school culture.

🌱 ECOSCHOOLS COMMITMENT

We’re proud to be part of the EcoSchools Canada program. Our staff, students, families, and community partners work together to promote sustainability through school gardens, waste reduction, and outdoor learning.

🌟 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Assiginack Public School is proud to have a dedicated and active School Council that plays an important role in supporting student success and school improvement.

The All-Star family—students, staff, and families—works closely with the broader community to make learning meaningful and connected. Together, we organize and participate in events such as:

• Remembrance Day ceremonies
• Community clean-up efforts
• Local and Island-wide sporting events

These partnerships strengthen our school culture and help students see the value of contributing to their community with respect, gratitude, and responsibility.

💫 OUR BELIEF

Assiginack Public School is a vibrant and inclusive learning environment where students are encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Through hands-on learning, a strong focus on literacy, cultural programming, and a commitment to well-being and environmental responsibility, APS is a place where every student can thrive.