Lizzie Tukkiapik: preserving Inuit language in a rapidly changing world
Lizzie’s unwavering dedication to her students is a testament to the power of education to shape the lives of young people.
Lizzie Tukkiapik has dedicated 30 years of her life to teaching the youth of Kuujjuaq. Currently an Inuktitut Specialist for Grades 4 and 5, she has worked with kindergarteners, first graders and high school students throughout her career. Among Lizzie’s proudest moments is simply returning to the classroom each year at the beginning of back-to-school season, even when she may have felt “burnt out” at the end of the previous school year.
“I always tell myself that I’m not coming back. Yet I’m still sitting here” Lizzie confesses, giggling.
What defines me? I’m an outgoing person. A lady who loves going outdoors. Camping. I like to joke around, not too serious all the time.
I ask, “What was your biggest challenge while working for KI?”
“When I taught my kids. I had to be a teacher, not a mother, and that was very hard.” Lizzie acknowledges the difficulty of having to teach her own children, as it strained their personal bond. However, she has learned from this experience: “With my grandchildren, I taught them differently.” In her opinion, it is important to advise younger teachers to maintain a clear separation between their distinct roles as educators and as parents.
Despite the challenges, Lizzie finds joy at the workplace. “I like my colleagues, and I like working with children.”
Her passion for education was inspired by her aunt, Elisapee Tukkiapik, who also taught at the local school. Just like her role model, Lizzie works toward empowering the next generation to stay in school and preserve their linguistic heritage, regardless of the hegemonic presence of the English language across the many various media platforms. As Nunavimmiut students look to the future, Lizzie’s wisdom and experience will continue to guide them on their educational journeys.