About Us
The Purpose of the Wapaskwa Virtual Collegiate
For more than ten years, WVC has been assisting First Nation communities in Manitoba by providing online course options for high school students looking to complete their Senior-year education.
Students can broaden their horizons and enhance their skills by joining an interactive cohort of First Nation students enrolled in the online class. A wide range of high school subjects are available and delivered online in a safe, secure environment. WVC offers an expanded calendar of courses, some of which may not be available at local schools, ensuring that students can earn the necessary credits for high school graduation or meet the entrance requirements for post-secondary education at universities, colleges, or in industry-specific trades.
Our teachers and staff are extremely supportive and dedicated to ensuring that all WVC students receive the best educational experience possible.
The Spirit Behind Wapaskwa
For us, choosing the right name for the Collegiate was important. Our brand represents strength, perseverance, and determination and symbolizes the ability to adapt and thrive, no matter what the environment. Wapusk, meaning “White Bear” or “Polar Bear” in the Ininímowin (Cree) language, carries the spiritual significance of Wapaskwa as Spirit Bear. Our logo beautifully represents the deep connection between teachers and students.
History
The Wapaskwa Virtual Collegiate is led by the Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre (MFNERC), established in 1999 with a mandate from the Chiefs of Manitoba to provide second and third-level education services to fifty-five First Nations schools in Manitoba.
The MFNERC facilitates a community education process based on First Nations’ needs, priorities, and education plans. The process is First Nations-driven, and authority remains with the First Nations.
The Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre (MFNERC) is actively involved in promoting community development by providing training and coordinating opportunities for families and other community members. Professional development training for school board members, administrators, teachers, and educational assistants may be requested.
The MFNERC is dedicated to collaborating with Manitoba First Nations to establish partnerships that ensure the highest standards of education in First Nations schools.
The Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre acknowledges education as a shared responsibility among all stakeholders. The organization promotes and encourages First Nations involvement in all aspects of the development and implementation of education change.
Questions?
Our Team
William (Billy) F.
ACTING-PRINCIPAL
William, also known as Bill or Billy, has been married to his wife for over a decade. They are the proud parents of three children, two boys and a girl. Although he is originally from Treaty 1 Territory, Billy grew up in Treaty 7 Territory in Alberta, then moved back to Treaty 1 when he was eight years old. He graduated from his local school in ’99, then pursued his university degrees, majoring in Geography and minoring in Native Studies and Psychology. After teaching in his hometown for nine years, Billy and his family moved to Treaty 1 Territory in 2018 for their children’s future.
Today, Billy is in his fourth year of teaching at Wapaskwa Virtual Collegiate, where he is deeply involved in online learning and course development. He looks forward to continuing his career with both WVC and MFNERC, driven by his passion for making a positive impact on students’ lives and the broader community.
Peter P.
Course Developer/Instructor
Peter earned a Certificate in Education in 1974, a Bachelor of Theology in 1978, a Bachelor of Education in 1981, a Computer Technician qualification in 1997, and a Post Baccalaureate in Education in 2005. He has 13 years of experience as a Computer Instructor at a school in Treaty 5 Territory, two years at another school in the same area, and 10 years teaching in various communities in southern Manitoba. Additionally, he has worked as an Adult Computer Instructor for Community Nights in Treaty 5 Territory.
Vibhu V.
Course Developer/Instructor
Vibhu has been a valued member of the WVC team for over a decade. His educational journey began with the attainment of a Bachelor of Science Degree in 2009 in Treaty 1 Territory, followed by a Bachelor of Education Degree from the same institution in 2011. In 2017, he further expanded his academic horizons by achieving a Master of Educational Technology from Treaty 8 Territory. During his educational journey, Vibhu gained valuable practical experience through his practicum placements. He worked with Grade 10/11 Science students at several schools in Winnipeg, where he engaged with Grade 12 Science students.
Vibhu’s professional journey also includes a diverse range of experiences. In 2010, he served as a CSI instructor, demonstrating his expertise in teaching and educational engagement. Additionally, Vibhu embarked on an exciting international adventure as an Assistant Language Teacher at a high school in Fukushima, Japan, as part of the Exchange & Teaching Program, where he shared his knowledge and cultural experiences for two academic years. With a rich background in education and a passion for sharing knowledge, Vibhu continues to make a meaningful impact at WVC.
Annie B.
Course Developer/Instructor
Annie was born and raised on her reserve in Treaty 5 Territory. She obtained a B.Ed. degree and Post Baccalaureate Diploma in Education. After graduating, she began teaching at a local school in, Winnipeg, Manitoba. Subject Areas: Grades 9-12 Ojibwe, Grade 10 History, Grade 10 Art, and Language Arts (team teaching). She also taught at a local college in Winnipeg, Manitoba, for 18 years in the following programs: Aboriginal Language Specialist Diploma, Self-Government Administration Diploma (including History, Introduction to Canadian Law, Ethics, and a Seminar on Traditional Teachings), Biindigen Upgrading Program (now known as APCET – Communications), Aboriginal History, and the Community Economic Development Diploma Program (CD/CED) focusing on Aboriginal History, Culture, and Political Context in Community Development.
Boozhoo, aaniin, gikinoo’omaaganag (greetings, students!).
Trisha M.
Course Developer/Instructor
Trisha has over eighteen years of experience teaching First Nations students. She obtained her Bachelor of Education degree in Treaty 1 Territory. In addition, she also holds a TESOL (Teacher of English to Speakers of Other Languages) Certificate and a Certificate of Adult Education from Red River College, where she graduated with Honours. Trisha’s vast teaching experience includes English Language Arts (ELA), math, computer applications, history, and law, as well as various business-related courses. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, spending time outdoors, and cake decorating. She is looking forward to teaching at Wapaskwa and enriching the lives of WVC students.
Danton W.
LMS Specialist
Danton Wilson-Swampy is a proud member of his reserve in Treaty 1 Territory on the lands north and east of the Winnipeg River and was born and raised in southern Treaty 1 Territory. In 2018, he completed his studies in the Business Technology Management Program, where he focused on IT Project Management, Business Analysis, Financial Accounting, and Computer programming.
After graduation, Danton began working at MFNERC (Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre) as the Laserfiche Technician and Application Administrator, where he gained valuable experience in managing technology and applications. He is thrilled to have joined the Wapaskwa Virtual Collegiate as the Learning Management Specialist and is determined to impact the department positively and contribute to the department’s success.
Meghan M.
Multimedia Designer
Meghan’s journey began on a close-knit commercial fishing island community in Treaty 2 Territory. Growing up in this unique environment, her experiences shaped her into a multi-talented individual with a deep appreciation for her cultural roots as a First Nations fiddle player and the modern creative world.
Meghan’s creative spirit couldn’t be contained within the realm of music alone. With an innate flair for artistic expression, she ventured into the world of graphic design after being introduced to it in high school. Her freelance graphic design work became a canvas for her imagination, enabling her to blend materials, colours, shapes, and concepts to craft visually appealing and sentimental art. This transition marked the beginning of her exploration into multimedia.
After completing her high school education, Meghan’s pursuit of knowledge led her to a university and vocational college in Treaty 1 Territory, where she obtained a Business Administration certificate. Meghan continues to evolve as a professional and aims to bridge the gap between tradition and innovation in all that she does, leaving an indelible mark on her work and the creative industries to which she contributes.
Shirley M.
Administrative Assistant
Shirley serves as the Administrative Assistant at Wapaskwa Virtual Collegiate and brings a wealth of experience from her 15-year tenure at the Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre. Originally from a charming small community in Treaty 1 Territory, Shirley grew up with five brothers and two sisters. Her professional journey spans a variety of roles, including Customer Service Representative, General Office Manager, Pharmacy Technician, and Cashier, adding depth to her extensive work history.
Partners
We gratefully acknowledge the generosity and support of our partners and want to recognize and give thanks to the following organizations for their support.
