Nunamiut School and the community of Anaktuvuk Pass are both about 50 years old. The Nunamiut people have lived in the area for thousands of years and permanently settled in the area in the early 1950’s. The Nunamiut People are the last nomadic people in North America to settle in a permanent community. Elders in the community were children when people settled in Anaktuvuk Pass. The school provides a quality education that incorporates Iñupiat values and traditions. The school is the center of the community with sporting and cultural events connecting the school and the community.
The desire to make a difference for students and a small community, the love of nature and science, a sense of adventure, and a deep interest in Native cultures, brought me to the village of Anaktuvuk Pass. After serving 38 years in education mostly in Washington State, first as a middle/high school teacher of history and language arts, then as a middle and elementary school principal, I answered the call to Alaska. I worked one year in the Cup’ik village of Chevak near the Bering Sea, and two years in the Inupiaq village of Kaktovik on the Beaufort Sea before moving up to the mountains of Anaktuvuk Pass in the Brooks Range.
Watching students explore new ideas, learn about their culture and history, and develop their reading, math and writing skills makes being principal a true delight. I enjoy working with students to develop positive programs and fun learning activities. With educational opportunities for real-life learning in Apple Technology Camp, science tundra camp, and hosting Elders as classroom guest presenters makes learning come alive. Our great teaching and paraprofessional staff help students develop personal learning goals and chart courses for the future while providing top quality daily lessons. And I am proud of our students who enjoy coming to school and work hard on their learning. We love to celebrate successes and enjoy laughter! As the principal, I have the honor of serving as the facilitator for success for all within our village: students, parents/families, staff and community. Anaktuvuk Pass and Nunamiut School earned AYP last year, and we continue to set our expectations high! Go Wolves!
~ Shele Kinkead, Principal
