A new Bachelor of Education program launching in Pinehouse this fall is being hailed as a major step toward addressing teacher shortages in northern Saskatchewan.
The Pinehouse Teacher Education Program is a partnership between Northern Lights School Division and the University of Saskatchewan that will allow students to complete a four-year teaching degree without leaving their home community.
The first cohort is expected to include about 15 students.
Director of Education Jason Young said the division’s experience shows locally trained teachers are more likely to remain in northern communities.
“Our data shows and it’s telling us that over the years that this model does work,” Young said. “We know when we recruit locals, they’re more likely to stay.”
The program will include a specialization in Indigenous studies and Indigenous languages, drawing on local Elders, Knowledge Keepers and language speakers.
Young said offering the program in Pinehouse provides direct access to community expertise and supports the division’s goal of strengthening Indigenous language education.
Northern Lights School Division Board Chair Joey McCallum welcomed the initiative, saying, “I am pleased that people in Pinehouse want to stay and learn in the North. With this program, students will have support from their families, as well as elders, and educators who live in Pinehouse and understand and share their culture and background.”
McCallum added the benefits will extend beyond the students enrolled in the program.
“PHTEP students will build close relationships with our schools and staff as they themselves become teachers. This is a win for both our schools and for the students enrolled in the course.”
Young said the long-term goal is to create a sustainable pipeline of northern teachers who can help fill vacancies and strengthen education in Pinehouse and across the region.