DIVERSE STUDENT POPULATION
awâsisak kâ-nîmîhtocik (St. Francis School) serves a predominantly Indigenous student body, with 99% of students identifying as Indigenous. Designed for up to 700 Pre-K–9 students, the school draws learners from 57 Saskatoon-area communities, including 55 First Nations communities. The exterior incorporates segmented precast concrete panels imprinted with Cree syllabics, carrying language and cultural identity into the architecture. 

INDIGENIZED CURRICULUM
The school supports a Cree/English dual-stream learning environment rooted in language, culture and community priorities. Dedicated spaces include an Elders’ Teaching Room, Medicines Lab, Research and Learning Greenhouse, Indigenous arts and sciences/STEAM spaces, cultural and family rooms, and a Child and Family Wellness Centre. Tawaw’s Indigenous design work supported a learning model shaped by community, language, traditions, ceremony and connection to the natural world. 

STUDENT SUCCESS
The school reflects the voices and priorities of First Nations and Métis families and communities in creating a culturally grounded learning environment that supports belonging, wellness and academic success. The project brings together education, cultural learning, family support and community programming, with partners including Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools, Saskatoon Tribal Council, the Indian Teacher Education Program and the University of Saskatchewan.