About Us

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.


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.

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.

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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.

Elliot Q.

GUIDANCE COUNSELLOR/LIASION

Elliot is from Treaty Territory 2. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Bachelor of Education in a 5 year integrated BA/B.Ed program, with a focus on English and Psychology as his teachable subjects. He has experience working with youth in various settings, including drop-ins, summer camps, and classrooms. After finishing university, Elliot returned home to Treaty 2 Territory to teach Grades 9-12 ELA at his local school. He also has many office experiences in various roles, including data management and record-keeping. Elliot is very excited about the opportunity to combine these experiences and interests at Wapaskwa Virtual Collegiate!

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.

Matthew M.

SIS/LMS Technician

Matthew is originally from a reserve signed to Treaty 1 Territory. He attended a vocational college in southern Manitoba and received a Community Development/Community Economic Development Diploma. Before joining the Wapaskwa Virtual Collegiate, he worked for many Indigenous organizations including Dakota Ojibway Health Services (DOHS), Interlake Reserves Tribal Council (IRTC), and Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO). His previous work experiences include Logistics Administrative Assistant, DOHS; Educational Assistant, at his reserve’s local school; and Energy Efficiency Upgrade Coordinator Assistant at the North End Community Renewal Corporation.

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!).

Justin H.

Course Developer/Instructor

Justin Hall is originally from Treaty Territory 5. Justin attended university and graduated with a Bachelor of Education degree. He worked in the education field for nearly 10 years as an educational assistant and a school bus driver before pursuing his education degree in 2017. Justin comes to the Wapaskwa Virtual Collegiate in hopes of establishing a positive and fun learning environment for all students.

Tobias C.

Course Developer/Instructor

Tobias holds a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Education. He has taught students from grades 1 to 12, excluding Grade 5, as well as the adult education diploma program, across three school divisions in Treaty 1, Treaty 11, Treaty 2 Territories, and various communities in Treaty 5 Territory. Tobias specializes in math, geography and a bit of science.

Mona A.

Course Developer/Instructor

Mona’s professional journey has been a remarkable one, characterized by her dedication to education. She proudly holds a Bachelor of Education Degree, which she attained in 2001. The same year, Mona began as a multidisciplinary teacher at a school in Treaty 2 Territory, where she made a positive impact on her students’ lives. Following this, she continued to excel in the field of education as a high school teacher at a school in Treaty 2 Territory, where she dedicated herself to teaching for twelve years.
Afterward, Mona embraced new challenges by joining a school in Treaty 1 Territory, where she worked as a high school teacher specializing in English Language Arts (ELA) and Social Studies. Her commitment to fostering a love for learning and her innovative teaching methods made her a valued member of the school. From there, Mona joined WVC in 2019, bringing with her a rich educational background and a wealth of teaching experience. Mona’s journey at WVC is a testament to her continued commitment to excellence in the field of education.

Michelle J.

Course Developer/Instructor

Michelle is originally from Treaty 5 Territory. She holds a Bachelor of Science with Honours and a Bachelor of Education. Over her remarkable career spanning 15 years, she has dedicated herself to educating students in grades 7 through 12 within several school divisions within Treaty 1 Territory. While she possesses the versatility to teach across all subjects, Michelle’s primary expertise lies in high school mathematics and science.

Ida B.

Course Developer/Instructor

Ida, a proud member of Treaty 5 Territory, holds a bachelor’s degree in education and arts. Her career journey has been marked by a passion for education and a commitment to her community. Ida’s extensive experience includes roles as a Lecturer 2 and Sessional Instructor at two esteemed universities in Treaty 1 Territory, where she shared her expertise and inspired countless students. In addition to her work in higher education, she made a significant impact in the public school system as an educator within a school division in Treaty 1 Territory.

Her diverse background encompasses Bilingual Education, Algonquian Linguistics, Community Development, Language Planning, Land-based Education, and Oral History. With a deep understanding of these subjects, Ida is not only an educator but also a valuable resource in her community. One of Ida’s remarkable talents is her ability to captivate audiences through storytelling. Her extensive knowledge and captivating narratives make her a respected figure in the world of storytelling and knowledge-keeping.
Currently, Ida continues to share her wealth of knowledge and passion for Cree culture as a dedicated instructor here at WVC. Her commitment to education and her cultural heritage shines through in all that she does, making her an invaluable member of our team.

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.

Vibhu V.

Instructional Designer

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.

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.

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.

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.

We gratefully acknowledge the generosity and support of our partners and want to recognize and give thanks to the following organizations for their support.

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