‘How far we have come’: La Loche school staff, students mark 10 years since mass shooting

The principal of Dene High School in La Loche says they’re using the anniversary of one of the community’s most painful moments to shift the focus on resilience and healing.

“We are taking the opportunity to remember those that were affected, but also reflect on what we have done, and how far we have come as a school,” said principal Donna Janvier.

Thursday marks the 10th anniversary of a mass shooting, where 17-year-old Randan Dakota Fontaine opened fire at the school, killing two people and injuring seven others. His killing spree began at the home of his two cousins, when he shot and killed them during the lunch break.

Fontaine’s violent acts in January 2016 shook the country, and left deep scars in the northern Dene community of La Loche.

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This year, the Northern Lights School Division says students and staff at the school have opted to change how they mark the day.

“To support healing, for the past 10 years the school has been closed for the day on Jan. 22, but going forward the doors will be open for a day of service as part of their instructional day,” said Jason Young, director of education.

In a news release, the division says the shift reflects the values of Dene High.

“Ëłá nadetsér means ‘together we are strong.’ This phrase was the starting point for how students, staff and community members would come together to acknowledge the past and start the difficult healing journey moving forward.”

Saskatchewan’s premier commemorated the anniversary Thursday in a brief statement on social media.

“Today, we remember the lives lost and reflect on the healing and resilience that has taken place over the past decade,“ he said.

“My thoughts are with the survivors and the friends and family of those we lost.”

The provincial NDP put out a statement Thursday morning acknowledging the four killed by Fontaine in 2016 — Adam Wood, Marie Janvier and his cousins, Dayne and Drayden Fontaine.

“As we reflect together as a province, we recognize that the consequences of violence extend far beyond its immediate victims, leaving lasting impacts on families, communities, and generations,” said the statement from party leader Carla Beck and Athabasca MLA Leroy Laliberte.

In a statement earlier this week, the Northern Lights School Division said the mass shooting triggered some deep introspection in the community that compelled them to strengthen partnerships across agencies to develop a long-term wellness plan for La Loche.

“We are very proud of the partnerships we have developed over the last ten years in support of the school and community,” said Joey McCallum, chair of the school board.