GNWT, Dehcho Education partners and Nahɂą Dehé Dene Band Advance Planning for Future of Charles Yohin School

Press Release

Nahanni Bute (June 9, 2026) – The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT), the Dehcho Divisional Education Council, Nahanni Butte District Education Authority and the Nahɂą Dehé Dene Band are working together to plan for the future of Charles Yohin School through a study that will assess the school’s current condition and explore options for future improvements.

The planning work will look at whether it makes more sense to significantly renovate the current school or build a new one. This work will help partners understand the condition of the school, what students may need in the future, and what options are available to support future funding and planning decisions. The planning study will include:

• A detailed look at the condition of the school building, including heating, plumbing, electrical systems, and the surrounding property
• A review of current and future student numbers to help plan for long-term school needs
• Different ideas and cost comparisons for either renovating the existing school or building a new one
• Recommendations to help guide future funding decisions for the project

Charles Yohin School plays an important role in supporting students and families in Nahanni Butte. The school has been identified as aging, requiring significant investment.

The GNWT, Education bodies for the region and Nahanni Butte and the Nahɂą Dehé Dene Band recognize the importance of ensuring that students and staff continue to have access to safe, functional, and culturally supportive learning environments. Engagement with school leadership, education bodies, and community partners will be incorporated throughout the planning process.

The planning study is expected to begin in Summer 2026.

Quotes

“Every student in the Northwest Territories deserves access to a safe, welcoming, and supportive learning environment, no matter where they live. This planning work is an

important step toward ensuring students and families in Nahanni Butte have a school that meets community needs now and into the future. By working closely with the Nahɂą Dehé Dene Band and community partners, we are supporting our government’s commitment to strong northern infrastructure, collaboration with Indigenous governments, and better outcomes for students across the territory.”

– Caitlin Cleveland, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment

“Charles Yohin School is an important part of our community and our children’s future. We welcome this planning study and the opportunity to work together with our partners, including the Government of the Northwest Territories and education bodies, to explore the best path forward. Whether the outcome is a significant renovation or the construction of a new school, future decisions must be guided by the needs of our students, educators, and community, while reflecting the vision and wisdom of our Elders. We look forward to being part of this process and helping shape a strong future for education in Nahanni Butte.”

– Chief Steve Vital, Nahɂą Dehé Dene Band

Quick facts

• GNWT departments of Education, Culture and Employment and Infrastructure are working together on the planning study and will soon issue a Request for Proposals to hire contractors for the work.
• Charles Yohin School was constructed in 1985
• Charles Yohin School provides Junior Kindergarten to Grade 10 programming

Related links

• Nahanni Butte Dene Band
• Government of Northwest Territories

For media requests, please contact:

Agata Gutkowska
Manager of Public Affairs and Communications
Department of Education, Culture and Employment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Agata_gutkowska@gov.nt.ca

Soham Srimani
Chief Administrative Officer
Nahɂą Dehé Dene Band
manager@nahadehe.ca

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