Yose Cormier
Northern News Services

Iqaluit (Sep 08/03) - It was back to school for most students last week.

While some communities started school a couple of weeks ago, most are just beginning a new school year.

Going to school in the North is not quite like school in the South.

In small communities like Kugaaruk, where there is only one school and about 75 students, everyone is thrown in together.

That can cause a few problems, especially when younger kids look up to older kids.

"Kids that you might look up to, that you think are cool, may not be," said Const. Jamie Savikataaq of the Kugaaruk RCMP.

Putting younger kids with older kids can also lead to bullying.

"Bullying is not a game. Respect is being kind. Respect others, kids and teachers," said Const. Michele Ducharme of the Kimmirut RCMP.

That can also be an issue in Iqaluit, where more students can be found.

"Sometimes the kids who want to befriend you on the first day may not be the ones you want to be friends with.

"Pick your friends carefully and if someone is doing something that makes you uncomfortable, talk to an adult," said Const. Chris Coles in Iqaluit.

Even between schools in the capital and in other communities, there are some differences.

One safety concern in Iqaluit but not so much in other communities is traffic.

More vehicles have made their way to the capital and children have to be careful when crossing the street, especially late in the afternoon when darkness sets in.

"Be aware of the amount of traffic because when you go to school, people are coming back from work," said Coles.

In Kimmirut, Ducharme warns kids about ATVs.

"Be a smart pedestrian, watch out for ATVs," she said.

In a constantly growing and changing North, problems more often seen in the South are creeping in.

That has some RCMP officers warning against drug and alcohol use.

"Be strong and make your own choices and don't let drugs and alcohol make the choices for you," said Const. Dale Lewis in Qikiqtarjuaq.

While differences do abound, there are always going to be similarities.

"I think a school is a school, no matter where," said Coles.

RCMP officers also promote staying in school.

"Don't let the opportunity to attend school pass you by. Education is the key to your future," said Cpl. Chris Bewsher in Resolute.

Savikataaq has one final piece of advice for kids.

"It's easier to stay out of trouble than getting out of trouble," said the Kugaaruk officer.