About Our School
Pegamigaabo School is an Anishinaabe school located in Big Grassy First Nation, serving students from Kindergarten to Grade 8. Our school is rooted in the teachings, language, and traditions of our people, and we are committed to supporting each child’s growth in a way that honors who we are as Anishinaabeg.
We believe that learning is lifelong, connected to the land, and grounded in relationships. Through daily learning experiences, land-based education, and the guidance of the Seven Grandfather Teachings, we nurture the whole child—mind, body, heart, and spirit.
Our smaller class sizes allow us to build strong, meaningful connections with students and families. We strive to create a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment where every child feels valued, supported, and proud of their identity.
At Pegamigaabo School, we are not only teaching academics—we are helping to grow strong, confident young people who carry our culture, language, and community with them into the future.
Our Learning Spaces & Student Supports
Pegamigaabo School provides a welcoming and well-rounded learning environment designed to support the needs of all students. Our school includes both a primary and intermediate playground, a gymnasium, a library, and five classrooms that foster safe and engaging spaces for learning.
We are proud to offer dedicated spaces that reflect our commitment to student well-being and identity. Our sensory room supports students who may need a quiet, calming space, while our Anishinaabemowin room is a place where language, culture, and teachings are centered and celebrated.
We also recognize the importance of nutrition in student success. Pegamigaabo School offers a daily breakfast and a hot lunch program, providing students with access to healthy, nourishing meals that support their energy, focus, and overall well-being throughout the school day.
We work in partnership with external service providers to ensure our students can access the supports they need. Through these partnerships, students may receive services such as occupational therapy (OT), speech and language support, and mental health counselling.
To support student attendance and accessibility, Pegamigaabo School operates a school bus that serves families within our community and in Naongashing.
At Pegamigaabo School, we are committed to creating an environment where students feel supported, connected, and ready to learn.
***Information regarding classes and school news can be located here.
Pegamigaabo School
513 Beach Road, Big Grassy First Nation
Box #453, Morson, ON P0W 1J0
(B) 807 488 5916/ 5986 or 1 800 265 3379
(F) 807 488 5345
Email: principal@biggrassy.ca
2025/2026 SCHOOL STAFF:
Education Director/Principal- Natasha Tom: principal@biggrassy.ca
JK/SK Teacher- Verna Aquash: vernaa@biggrassyschool.ca
Grade 1/2 Teacher- Jane Tom: janet@biggrassyschool.ca
Grade 3/4 Homeroom Teacher (Science/Social Studies/History/Geography Grade 3-8)- Fiona McKenna: fionnam@biggrassyschool.ca
Grade 5/6 Homeroom Teacher (Literacy Grade 3-8)- April Whalen: aprilw@biggrassyschool.ca
Grade 7/8 Homeroom Teacher (Math Grade 3-8)- Beth Shaw: beths@biggrassyschool.ca
Anishinaabemowin/Land-Based Instructor- Roy Tom: royt@biggrassyschool.ca
Special Education Teacher- Karen Cox-Gurdon: karencg@biggrassyschool.ca
Health/Physical Education Teacher- Buck Morrison: buckm@biggrassyschool.ca
Post-Secondary Coordinator- Judy Major: postsecondarycoordinator@biggrassy.ca
Post-Secondary Coordinator Assistant- Dion Lapensee: postsecondarycoordinator@biggrassy.ca
Administration- Melissa Archie: pegamigaaboadministration@biggrassy.ca
Librarian- Audrey Duval: library@biggrassy.ca
