Our Team
Wapaskwa Virtual Collegiate – Principal – Vacant
Vice-Principal – Flora-Lee Trueman
Flora-Lee Trueman is a member of the Opaskwayak Cree Nation. Flora-Lee has a Bachelor of General Studies/Education After Degree from the University of Brandon, a Post Baccalaureate Diploma from the University of Winnipeg, and a Master of Education Degree from St. Francis Xavier University. She has worked in education in different capacities over the past 20 years. She has taught at the middle and senior years levels at Independent, private, and public schools across Manitoba and comes to the Wapaskwa Virtual Collegiate as an experienced instructional leader, workshop and training facilitator, consultant, course developer, divisional support teacher, coach, and mentor.
Guidance Counsellor / Liaison – Vacant
Instructional Coach – Vacant
Curriculum Developer/Instructor – Peter Petkau
Peter has a Certificate in Education, UM in 1974; Bachelor of Theology, CMU in 1978; Bachelor of Education, UM in 1981; Computer Technician, WTC in 1997; Post Baccalaureate in Education from the UM in 2005. He has 13 years as Computer Instructor with Charles Sinclair High School, Fisher River; 2 years Computer Instructor with Poplar River School; 10 years teaching in various communities in southern Manitoba and Adult Computer Instructor for Community Nites in Fisher River.
Curriculum Developer/Instructor – William (Billy) Flett
William Lee Flett, aka Bill or Billy, has been married to Candace for 11 years. They are the proud parents of Liam (12) and Brenlee (10). Although he is a Peguis First Nations Band member, Billy grew up in Calgary, Alberta, then moved to Peguis, Manitoba, at age eight. He graduated from Peguis Central School in ’99, then pursued degrees at the University of Manitoba, majoring in Geography and minoring in Native Studies and Psychology. After teaching in Peguis for nine years, Billy and his family moved to Winnipeg in 2018 for their children’s future.
Today, Billy is deeply engaged in his fourth year of teaching at Wapaskwa Virtual Collegiate, a role that has immersed him in the dynamic world of online learning and course development. Billy looks forward to continuing his career with WVC and the MFNERC, where his passion for making a positive impact on students’ lives and the broader community burns brighter than ever.
Curriculum Developer/Instructor – Annie Boulanger
Annie was born and raised in Berens River, Manitoba. She obtained a B.Ed. degree and Post Baccalaureate Diploma in Education from University of Manitoba. After graduating, she began teaching at Children of the Earth High School, Winnipeg, Manitoba. Subject areas: Gr.9-12 Ojibwe, Gr.10 History, Gr.10 Art and Language Arts (team teaching). She also taught at Red River College, Winnipeg, Manitoba (1999-2017) in the Aboriginal Language Specialist Diploma Program, Self-Government Administration Diploma Program – History, Intro to Canadian Law, Ethics and Seminar on Traditional Teachings; Biindigen Upgrading Program, now APCET- Communications, Aboriginal History, and Community Economic Development Diploma Program (CD\CED)- Aboriginal History & Culture and Political Context in CD.
Boozhoo, aaniin, gikinoo’omaaganag (greetings, students!)
Curriculum Developer/Instructor – Elliot Quade
Elliot is from Lake Manitoba First Nation, which is also called Dog Creek (Animo-ziibiing). He earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Bachelor of Education in the 5 year integrated BA/B.Ed program at the University of Winnipeg, 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 Lake Manitoba to teach Grades 9-12 ELA at Lake Manitoba School. He also has lots of office experience 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!
Curriculum Developer/Instructor – Vibhu Vashisht
Vibhu has been a valued member of the WVC team since 2013. His educational journey began with the attainment of a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Manitoba in 2009, followed by a Bachelor of Education Degree from the same institution in 2011. In 2017, he further expanded his academic horizons by achieving a Masters of Educational Technology from UBC. During his educational journey, Vibhu gained valuable practical experience through his practicum placements. He worked with Grade 10/11 Science students at Shaftesbury High School and continued his commitment to education at Kelvin High, 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 at John M. King School, demonstrating his expertise in teaching and educational engagement. Additionally, Vibhu embarked on an exciting international adventure as an Assistant Language Teacher at Bandai Jr. High School in Fukushima, Japan, as part of the Exchange & Teaching Program, where he shared his knowledge and cultural experiences from 2011 to 2013. With a rich background in education and a passion for sharing knowledge, Vibhu continues to make a meaningful impact at WVC.
Curriculum Developer/Instructor – Mona Asham
Mona’s professional journey has been a remarkable one, characterized by her dedication to education. She proudly holds a Bachelor of Education Degree from the University of Manitoba, which she attained in 2001. The same year, Mona began as a multidisciplinary teacher at Dauphin River School, 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 Pinaymootang School, where she dedicated herself to teaching from 2002 to 2014.
In 2014, Mona embraced new challenges as she joined Peguis Central School, where she served 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 Peguis Central 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.
Course Developer/Instructor – Michelle Jonson
Michelle holds a Bachelor of Science with Honours and a Bachelor of Education from the esteemed University of Manitoba. Over her remarkable career spanning 15 years, she has dedicated herself to educating students in grades 7 through 12 within the Prairie Rose, Louis Riel, and River East School Divisions. While she possesses the versatility to teach across all subjects, Michelle’s primary expertise lies in high school mathematics and science.
Course Developer/Instructor – Ida Bear
Ida, a proud member of the Norway House Cree Nation, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education and Arts from the University of Manitoba. 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 both the University of Manitoba and the University of Winnipeg, 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 the Lord Selkirk School Division.
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 teacher 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.
Course Developer/Instructor – Trisha Malanowich
Trisha has over eighteen years of experience teaching First Nations students. She obtained her Bachelor of Education degree at Brandon University. 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.
Course Developer/Instructor – Vacant
Course Developer/Instructor – Vacant
Course Developer/Instructor – Catherine Constant
WVC is pleased to introduce Ms. Catherine Constant, from the Opaskwayak Cree Nation situated in northern Manitoba. Having recently made the transition to Winnipeg, Manitoba, Catherine now resides here with her two beloved daughters, Ellen Peyton and Sofia Madison. In 2019, she achieved the esteemed distinction of acquiring both a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Bachelor of Education degree from the distinguished University College of the North. Following this academic triumph, Catherine embarked on a brief academic journey to Alberta, which enriched her perspective and knowledge. Thereafter, she returned to her hometown to teach.
With an ardent dedication to education and an aspiration to provide her daughters with great opportunities, she decided to make Winnipeg their new home. Presently, Catherine contributes her expertise to the Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre with Wapaskwa Virtual Collegiate. In addition to her educational pursuits, Catherine holds a deep-seated passion for sports, particularly baseball, which resonates as a testament to her well-rounded interests.
Instructional Designer – Vacant
Educational Digital Content Specialist – Dave Winters
David is an experienced educator with 15 years of teaching background. He possesses a Bachelor of Arts, a Bachelor of Education, and a PhD focusing on Logic and Foundations of Mathematics. Throughout his career, David has instructed diverse grade levels, ranging from early childhood classes to higher education courses. He has worked with various age groups, including both children and adults striving for a high school equivalency certificate. David’s journey began by teaching a split class of Grades 1 and 2 students at Skownan School in Skownan, Manitoba. Prior to joining MFNERC, he contributed his teaching skills to Gilbert Plains Collegiate in Gilbert Plains, Manitoba, specializing in social studies and physical education.
Multimedia Designer – Meghan Mowatt
Meghan’s journey began on the remote Matheson Island, a close-knit commercial fishing community nestled in the heart of Lake Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. 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 Red River College, 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 in which she contributes to.
LMS Specialist – Danton Wilson-Swampy
Danton Wilson-Swampy is a proud member of the Sagkeeng First Nation and was born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba. In 2018, he completed his studies in the Business Technology Management Program at Red River College, 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 Wapaskwa Virtual Collegiate as the Learning Management Specialist and is determined to impact the department positively and contribute to the department’s success.
Administrative Assistant – Shirley Monkman
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 the charming community of Patricia Beach, 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.
SIS/LMS Technician – Matthew McCorrister
Matthew McCorrister is originally from Peguis First Nation. He attended Red River College and received a Community Development/Community Economic Development Diploma. Prior to joining 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 includes Logistics Administrative Assistant, DOHS (2018-19); Educational Assistant, Peguis Central School (2015-16); and Energy Efficiency Upgrade Coordinator Assistant, North End Community Renewal Corp. (2015).
Student Support Specialist – Vacant
Help Desk Technician – eLearning – Tyler Mason
Tyler is originally from St. Theresa Point in Island Lake, Manitoba. He is proud to be fluent in Anishininiimowin (Oji-Cree) which he uses regularly with his family and friends. After graduating from high school in Brandon, Tyler moved to Winnipeg for his university education at the University of Winnipeg. Later, he relocated to Toronto to pursue further education, as the opportunities he sought weren’t available in Manitoba at the time. Tyler’s professional background primarily revolved around retail. He started as a Customer Service Representative and worked his way up to become a Supervisor. Along the way, Tyler gained expertise in logistics and operating heavy machinery.
Eventually, Tyler found his way to the Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre (MFNERC), where he serves as a Service Desk Technician. In his spare time, he taught himself computer programming and IT hardware support, adding to his continuously growing skill set.
