Opening Day - Creating Attuliit

Creating this store from scratch has been a journey of learning for myself and my students. We hit many obstacles along the way but solved them together as a team.

I wanted the students to get involved in a large project that was beneficial to both students and the community. In the past, IPL students were often labeled as "difficult."  The time had come to change negative stereotypes and prove that IPL students can make positive changes in their environment.

During our very first "Grand Opening" the community was pleasantly surprised to see such a beautiful and functional store. IPL students had an extremely difficult time accepting the dozens of compliments from the general public; always keeping their head low. I thought it was because they are just being shy. A village elder later explained that it was because nobody had ever given them such positive praise before. I told the students, "next time someone compliments you on your hard work say thank you and never look towards the ground." Opening Day was a success and the whole village came to shop and show their support. Visit our Photo Gallery to see opening day photos.

"Attuliit stands as an example of what students can achieve when given a chance to work together as a team. IPL students have a voice too and they need to be heard.” – Paul Maggiolo, IPL Teacher

 

What’s in a name…

I approached Mary, our Inuttitut teacher at the time, for a possible name for the store. At first she suggested a very long sounding name. The students at Ikusik school then suggested shortening the much too long name. Choosing the name Attuliit  which means “second hand or something used” was a community effort. The younger generation believes the correct name should be Attuniit. The elders of Salluit insist  the correct name is Attuliit. IPL chose to go with Attuliit instead of the Attuniit. Lesson learned; Always listen to your elders!