June 22, 2022 — Pic River, ON — Indigenous Services Canada 

Biigtigong Nishnaabeg is extremely pleased to celebrate the ground breaking of its new elementary school (kindergarten to grade 8) in the community in partnership with Indigenous Services Canada and the Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation (OFNTSC). 

The Government of Canada has committed an investment of $25.8 million to support the new school and is working in close partnership with Biigtigong leadership to ensure the project is successful. 

The new school facility has a floor area of 2,780 square meters (29,924 square feet) and is sized to accommodate a student population of 175. The construction of this new facility will relieve the overcrowding issue at the existing school and eliminate the need for portables. This modern teaching facility will be used as a launchpad for Biigtigong youth to begin their pursuit of their dreams while also acting as a conduit where precious cultural heritage can be imparted to the next generation. The new school includes extensive site development including a bus dropoff loop, softball field, asphalt basketball court, playground, walking trails, outdoor classrooms and a storage garage. The school will also include its own below-ground water reservoir and fire pump system for sprinkler protection.