Holman (Nov 06/06) - The word "Ulukhaktok" is a composite Inuinnaqtun word. It's a combination of "Ulu," meaning a type of traditional round knife, and "haktok," which means, um...

"Ulukhaktok means 'the place where tools are made'" says teacher Mark Lebourdais.

Trevor Okheena stands between his two high school teachers, Chip Bryant, left, and Mark LeBourdais. At the monthly School Awards Assembly at Helen Kalvak Elihakvik on Nov. 1, Trevor received three awards, more than any other student. - photo courtesy of Mark LeBourdais/Helen Kalvak school

Thank goodness for teachers, eh?

While it might be common knowledge to those living in Holman, not everyone knows the story of the Ulu.

The traditional copper knife has a long history in the region, as the method of choice for skinning animals and cutting up meat.

But in the past few years, the Ulu has also gained a second life as Helen Kalvak school's prize for students.

LeBourdais said the school has an award ceremony every month, where rolled-up certificates called Ulus are given. (No real knives here, it's a school.)

"It's an all-purpose award, there can be different reasons," he said of the Ulu.

"It keeps morale up. It reinforces that we're aware of students who are working hard and trying their best, and are improving and contributing to the positive atmosphere of the school."

One example is Trevor Okheena, 17, who recently won three of the awards; one for academic achievement, one for attendance, and one for participating in the grad committee, of which all 10 members got a prize.

"It's a good thing, it's for the behaviour of students," he said on the phone during his lunch break.

As for the certificate itself?

"I just put it in my locker and forget it," Okheena admitted.

While the paper certificates might not be as cool as a genuine copper Ulu, LeBourdais said It's the thought that counts.

"It's just a way to recognize student achievement and celebrate what the kids have accomplished," he said.