Inuvik - Samuel Hearne's new principal brings both experience in education and the North to the position.

Roman Mahnic came to Inuvik earlier this summer from Tuktoyaktuk to take over as the principal for the high school.

Samuel Hearne principal Roman Mahnic is starting his first year at the helm of Inuvik's only secondary school. He spent last year serving as principal for Mangilaluk school in Tuktoyaktuk. He said he is looking forward to a fresh year with new staff and students. - Dez Loreen/NNSL photo

Mahnic has 16 years working as a school administrator. He spent the last year working as the head of Tuk's Mangilaluk school.

"I put my name in for the principal position here and got it," he said.

"So now I'm in Inuvik and I'm excited."

Mahnic said he applied for the Inuvik position because he wanted to stay in the region.

"I like it here in the Beaufort Delta," said Mahnic.

Being a part of Samuel Hearne is important for Mahnic as well.

"Samuel Hearne is the flagship school here in the Delta," he said.

"I'm very pleased to be the instructional leader in this school."

Making himself comfortable in the school was easy with the assistance of the staff.

"It's been great so far, the staff has been really friendly," he said.

"They're hard working and organized for the new year."

Mahnic is originally from Saskatchewan, but moved north from Kelowna, B.C., a few years ago.

Being in Tuk was a good learning experience for Mahnic. He said he learned a lot about the region and the traditions from the people he met.

"They are great there, a lot of nice people," said Mahnic.

"It's a very close community."

Mahnic said he was happy to see the determination of the students in Tuk.

"This last year, we had the highest rate of graduates in many years," he said.

"We had 10 grads, which was good. There was a big celebration for them."

Mahnic is now working with the staff at Samuel Hearne to pass on the success he shared with the Tuk school.

Classes began this week and Mahnic and his staff will be busy getting the year in gear.