School Programs Boost Attendance Rates in Pond Inlet to 85%

In a remarkable achievement, student attendance at Ulaajuk Elementary School in Pond Inlet has reached an impressive 85 percent, significantly surpassing the average attendance rates across Nunavut. This success is attributed to a variety of engaging extracurricular activities available to students, even on weekends. Principal Sandra Rutledge emphasizes that programs such as sports, cooking, and arts and crafts play a crucial role in fostering a sense of community and belonging among students.

Rutledge notes, “There’s lots of activities for the students to be able to participate. They want to come to school. They want to participate.” These initiatives not only keep students engaged but also help them feel safe and welcomed in their school environment. Ulaajuk Elementary serves around 302 students, providing daily meals, including breakfast, lunch, and snacks, which further enhances the appeal of attendance.

According to the Nunavut Department of Education, the average attendance rates in the territory for the 2024-2025 academic year are significantly lower, with elementary schools in the Kitikmeot region averaging 57 percent, and both the Kivalliq and Qikiqtaaluk regions at 69 percent. The stark contrast in attendance rates highlights the effectiveness of Ulaajuk’s community-focused approach.

Creating a Community Hub

Since her arrival at Ulaajuk three years ago, Rutledge has observed students roaming the community during school hours. In response, she and Vice-Principal Karla Evaloakjuk have initiated outreach efforts to connect with families and encourage enrollment. The school collaborates with local authorities, including the RCMP and Family Services, to identify children who are not attending school. Rutledge explains, “We’ve had parents in the past call me, and they’ve been embarrassed because they haven’t sent their child to school.”

The school seeks to address barriers to attendance by engaging parents in discussions about their children’s education. Rutledge highlights that even students who have missed several years of schooling often feel welcomed when they see the vibrant activities available.

Newly appointed Education Minister David Akeeagok has also recognized the need for parental involvement in boosting school attendance. He has expressed a desire to motivate students and support their educational journey, stating, “As a parent, I have some good ideas, but as a minister, I need to listen to the staff.” One potential initiative includes leveraging the upcoming Arctic Winter Games to encourage student participation in school.

Community Engagement and Support

Ulaajuk is striving to be more than just a school; it aims to be a community hub. Recently, the school organized a community breakfast for Thanksgiving, serving over 1,000 pancakes and involving students in the process. “Even some of the students that I normally know are a little bit shy,” Rutledge expressed pride in their willingness to serve and clean up.

To further engage the community, Ulaajuk plans to hold a bake sale and promote its food program in local stores. Rutledge understands that staff retention is also critical to maintaining high student attendance. With a dedicated team of 41 employees, she emphasizes the importance of respecting their prep time and ensuring they feel valued.

As Ulaajuk Elementary School continues to innovate and nurture a supportive environment, it sets a standard for educational institutions across the territory. The proactive measures taken by Rutledge and her team demonstrate the profound impact that community involvement and engaging programs can have on student attendance and overall well-being.