Delores D. Echum Composite School

About Delores D Echum Composite School

Delores D Echum Composite School, or DDECS, serves the community of Moose Cree First Nation. The school's focus is to provide culturally rich learning for students and actively encourage and participate in land-based learning.

DDECS has students from Grades 7 to Grade 12. The curriculum is designed in accordance with the Ontario Ministry of Education with the intention of preparing the students for their future success in continued education or when they enter the workforce. The courses have been designed to meet the beliefs, values, and goals of the Moose Cree First Nation Members.

There are times throughout the year when school is put on hold so that students can participate in “goose hunting week” or other culturally significant seasonal land-based learning opportunities, with their families, when they are taking place. The school is very proud of supporting these cultural activities and encourages land-based learning within the classroom setting.

The island of  Moose Factory is considered to be an isolated community. It is accessible via water taxi during three seasons from the town of Moosonee, on the mainland. During the winter months, road access to the island is also available. Moosonee has no road access and can only be reached by plane or train.

Students at DDECS can be quiet and shy (especially the older students) Participation from students, at times can be tricky when speaking directly to students and trying to get responses. They do respond well to hands-on activities and are active listeners. Many times, post-session, they will have to follow up discussions with their teachers, with whom they feel more comfortable, and demonstrate and discuss what they have learned. 

We look forward to connecting with you to share your knowledge and expertise with the students and to help guide and support them with their learning journey. Mîkwec!

Simple Moose Cree Vocabulary

Hello - Wâciye

Yes - Ehe

No - Môla

Thanks - Mîkwec