Oscar Lathlin Collegiate’s Principal Passes the Torch

After 32 years at Oscar Lathlin Collegiate, including 14 as principal, Mr. Ron Constant is embarking on a new journey.

“We want to take a moment to recognize [his] dedication and commitment,” wrote Opaskwayak Education Services Inc. (OES) and Oscar Lathlin Collegiate in a letter to the community. “We wish Ron all the best on his next journey and express our gratitude for his contributions to our students.”.

During his time at Oscar Lathlin Collegiate, Constant launched initiatives that enriched the learning experience of the students, such as the land-based Outdoor Education program and the Aboriginal Youth Entrepreneurship program.

Now, he is looking forward to moving to Norway House Cree Nation with his wife, spending more time with his grandchildren and finding opportunities to teach in the new community.

The message he wants to leave for the staff and students at Oscar Lathlin Collegiate is to “be bold, strive for greatness and take pride in who you are and where you come from as members of Opaskwayak.”

“Be bold, strive for greatness and take pride in who you are and where you come from as members of Opaskwayak.”
– Principal Ron Constant

OES and Oscar Lathlin Collegiate wish Constant all the best and are excited to welcome Mrs. Jennifer Bercier into the role of principal effective August 28, 2023.

Bercier, a member of Opaskwayak, holds a master’s in educational administration, a bachelor of education and bachelor of arts degree. She has over two decades of experience as an educator and holds an impressive record of accomplishments including her advocacy for inclusive education.

“We are confident that Mrs. Bercier will be a collaborative leader who will work tirelessly to ensure that our students receive the best possible education,” wrote OES and Oscar Lathlin Collegiate.

Bercier says she is excited to work with the staff and students at Oscar Lathlin Collegiate.

“I want to work on maintaining effective educational programs and use our services and resources in the community,” said Bercier. “It enriches our learning.”

Bercier knows what a great legacy Constant leaves behind as she was once his student and worked alongside him as vice principal from 2014 to 2018.

She wishes to thank him for his years of leadership by acknowledging “the work he’s done and the foundations he’s built for us.”

About Oscar Lathlin Collegiate

Oscar Lathlin Collegiate officially opened its doors on April 28^th, 2011.

It is a modern facility that features many technological benefits like SMARTboards in every classroom for their students in Grades 7 through 12. The school was designed for an open concept that allows students to intermingle with each other and the staff. The main corridor and classrooms foster an inviting and visually appealing atmosphere.

It is named after Oscar Lathlin, born on May 20, 1947, who was elected Chief of Opaskwayak Cree Nation in 1985. Lathlin was involved with many monumental projects such as expanding the infrastructure of Opaskwayak, providing leadership in signing one of the first gaming agreements with the province, beginning the Land Management Protocol for First Nations, and establishing and expanding the University College of the North.

Education was important to Lathlin who strived to ensure that Indigenous children had a fair and equal opportunity to receive higher education.

Read more about Oscar Lathlin and Oscar Lathlin Collegiate here.