Iskut Band celebrates grand opening of new Łuwechōn Kots’ede’i Kime School
Published 12:15 am Friday, October 17, 2025
Iskut children now have the chance to learn in their home community while staying connected to Tahltan culture and language with the opening of the new Łuwechōn Kots’ede’i Kime School.
The Iskut Band hosted a grand opening ceremony Oct. 16 for the school, whose name translates to Łuwechōn House of Learning. The modern 1,463-square-metre facility replaces the Klappan Independent School, built in 1978, which could no longer meet the needs of the growing community.
Iskut Band Chief Marie Quock said the new building represents healing and renewal for the community.
“With this new school, we aim to help our community move away from the trauma associated with attending the Indian Day School. Many community members had negative experiences with the previous school, and we are hopeful that this new educational environment will provide healing and a fresh start for our students and community. We are grateful to ISC for acknowledging our community's need to replace the old school as part of our healing process. This action reflects the Federal Government's commitment to reconciliation efforts, and we appreciate their support in this important step towards healing and progress for our community,” Quock said.
The Iskut Band provides in-class education from kindergarten to Grade 9, as well as supported online learning for Grades 10 to 12. With increasing enrollment and demand for higher grades, future plans include expanding the school further.
The project was made possible through a partnership between the Iskut Band and the Government of Canada, with nearly $24.5 million invested by Canada and an additional $900,000 from the Iskut Band.
“Education is a cornerstone of every thriving community. The opening of the new Łuwechōn Kots’ede’i Kime School marks an exciting new chapter for the children and families of Iskut. Chief Quock and the Iskut Band have demonstrated exemplary leadership, their commitment making this project possible. This school was built in partnership to ensure that future generations have access to their language, values and culture right at home,” said the Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services.
The school includes five classrooms, cultural learning spaces for art, language and woodworking, a library, a full-size gymnasium, a new playground and an outdoor classroom to support traditional on-the-land learning.
Quock expressed appreciation to the project management, design, and construction teams, noting more than 14,000 hours contributed by Iskut members. "Most importantly, thanks to our community, school staff and students for their input into the design of this beautiful building, and to Maggie Dennis, our Band Manager, and her team for their vision, leadership, and resilience in reaching this significant milestone for our community.”
Iskut, located along Hwy. 37, has 831 members, with 344 living on Iskut Reserve #6 where the school is situated. The community consists of three reserves, the largest being Iskut Reserve #6.
