RANKIN INLET - The 2008-2009 school year was quite successful for Leo Ussak Elementary School in Rankin Inlet, said its co-principal.

Tyrone Power said as in every year, there were challenges to be met and staff members worked hard to overcome them.

Scott Kowtak of Grade 3 accepts the Most Improved in Inuktitut Award from Jordin Tootoo and Hannah Benoit at Leo Ussak Elementary School in Rankin Inlet this past month. - Darrell Greer/NNSL photo

He said cultural programming really started to take off this past year.

"Even our annual awards are becoming more culturally-based," said Power.

"One of our biggest pushes now is to start grounding the school in Inuit Qaujiniajatuqangit.

"We have a cultural committee in place to help us head in that direction."

Power said attendance remained strong this past year, with the school operating at about 85 per cent capacity, most of the time.

He said the school also received excellent parental support this past year.

"Whatever we ask of our parents, they're always willing to do.

"We held numerous afternoon and evening activities this past year.

"The school was a beehive of activity all year, and our staff are to be commended for the work they do here."

Leo Ussak had 248 students this past year, and Power expects that number to remain stable at about 245 for 2009-2010.

Staff turnover is minimal for the coming year, with Eva Angoo leaving for a position in Whale Cove, co-principal Sarah Ayaruaq taking a year of educational leave, and a Grade 4 teacher's position needing to be filled due to maternity leave.

Power said staff stability is another strong point of the school.

"Whenever you have low staff turnover, it keeps the school consistent and programs moving smoothly."

Power said culturally-based programs attracted big turnouts from the community this past year.

He said all the school's evening activities are now culturally-based.

"I've been very, very pleased with the way things have gone the past two years.

"We're already looking forward to next semester because it looks like it's going to be another exciting year for us."