Our History
History of Formal Education on Lennox Island
In 1868, Martin Francis, a teacher and Lennox Island Band member, opened a schoolroom in his home, marking the beginning of formal education on the island.
The next year, the Lennox Island Day School opened. From 1875 to 1948, formal education was administered by the Department of Indian Affairs. In 1948, a new two-storey schoolhouse was built, and the Catholic Church took over.
For several generations, the children of Lennox Island were subjected to mistreatment and abuse at the hands of the government and the church. Attendance at the day school was mandatory and enforced by an Indian agent up until the mid-1960s. The goal was to assimilate Indigenous children into white society and wipe out their native language and culture.
A New Era in Mi’kmaq Education
In 1981, a new Mi’kmaq elementary school opened on Lennox Island. Named after John James Sark, a much-respected community leader and teacher, the school represented an incredible milestone for the Mi’kmaq community of Epekwitk. Finally, students would receive an education rooted in their own culture and language.
The school’s establishment would not have been possible without the hard work and perseverance of community members, including Chief Jack Sark and Chief Charlie Sark, the Director of Education for Lennox Island at the time.
About
John James Sark
John James Sark was a much-respected community leader who dedicated his life to public service. During his lifetime, John J. Sark served overseas and became the first Mi’kmaw teacher to graduate from St. Dunstan’s University (UPEI).
Then and Now
Formal Education on Lennox Island
1868
Martin Francis, a local Mi’kmaw man, started teaching in his home
1869
The Lennox Island Day School opened
1875
The Department of Indian Affairs took over administration
1948
The Catholic Church took over, operating from classrooms housed in a local convent for nuns. The convent burned down in 1969 or 1970.
1981
John J. Sark Memorial School opened, named after a respected teacher in the community
1987
The school was handed over to the First Nation to operate