DFC celebrates 10 years

In the past 10 years, three names have become synonymous with First Nation education in Thunder Bay.
Dennis.
Franklin.
Cromarty.
Or simply Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School, with its namesake, the former grand chief of Nishnawbe Aski Nation.
Education was important to Dennis Franklin Cromarty. Ten years of First Nation education was celebrated at the school Nov. 24 with an open house.
The late-Cromarty’s wife attended the ceremony and addressed the students.
“Dennis wanted the best for his people,” Helen Cromarty said. “He knew how important getting an education was. Work at what you do. Keep working on what this man (Dennis) started.”
DFC student chief Darrin Fiddler, from Sandy Lake, also spoke.
“DFC is a really good place to go to school,” he said to a crowd of more than 150 people in the gym.
“There is never a dull moment. I always have something to do.”
Fiddler said what the students go through in Thunder Bay isn’t easy.
“There are great people working at the school. The boarding home parents do a lot to help the students. But we do have a lot of troubles. We face hard times leaving our families behind. There are a lot of changes in life, having to catch a bus, waking up early and not being at home.”
Heather Lammers, one of two teachers at DFC who stayed from the inaugural faculty, addressed the assembled students and guests.
“Throughout the years, I have met many talented and creative students,” Lammers said.
“They have taught me many things and have certainly enriched my life. This has been and continues to be a challenging and rewarding job.”
Northern Nishnawbe Education Council executive director Jennifer Manitowabi also attended the open house.
“Fifteen years ago, I was going through high school,” she said. “We only wished we had this facility.”
DFC principal Jonathon Kakegamic was thrilled with the open house.
“I’m really excited for First Nations people in general,” he said.
“I’m glad so many people took advantage of the opportunity to see our open house. We need to stop working in isolation. DFC and First Nation people aren’t going anywhere. Our students have the same hopes and dreams and want to be happy and successful like every other student in Thunder Bay.”
Part-time school Elder Abe Kakepetum performed his hit song ‘Indian Time’ during the open house.
Following the open house, students performed in a battle of the bands.