INUVIK - Family, friends and government officials gathered at the Legion Jan. 29 to honour school staff and teachers for their long-term dedication to their jobs.

School staff from nearby communities were flown in for the ceremony.

Deputy premier Floyd Roland and commissioner Tony Whitford, right, present Inuvik teacher Sylvia Musselwhite with gifts for her 30 years of service in Inuvik at a reception held Jan. 29 night to honour the long-term achievements of teachers and staff who work in schools in the region. - Dez Loreen/NNSL photo

Education Minister Charles Dent attended, as well as deputy premier Floyd Roland, Inuvik Twin Lakes MLA Robert McLeod, commissioner Tony Whitford and Mackenzie Delta MLA David Krutko.

Dent said the event was significant because it's important to support people who decide to stay and work in the North for the long-term.

"The longer a person works in the North, the more comfortable they are in the communities, which is important," said Dent.

Whitford gave his thanks to the people who have had a positive impact on education in the North, including higher graduation rates.

"I want to give my heartfelt thanks for your contribution to the region and in this area," Whitford told the audience.

Roland thanked the staff for making an impact on the youth of the region, many of whom are now adults.

"As I look around the room, I know that some of you have seen the younger, wilder side of us and thanks for showing us the way," said Roland.

Sylvia Musselwhite was the longest serving educator at the ceremony, with 30 years of service in Inuvik.

Musselwhite said she did not plan on living in the North for so long - it just happened.

"We didn't plan on staying for any determined period of time," said Musselwhite.

"It was after the 10-year mark that my husband and I realized we were here for the long run."

Although Musselwhite is now retired, she still offers her services to Sir Alexander Mackenzie school when asked.

"I am still in the school, substitute teaching," she said.

She, in turn, expressed her gratitude for the event.

"Thanks to everyone who was involved in the banquet, it was appreciated by anyone who got a gift that night," said Musselwhite.