SSDEC’s App; First Nations Storybook - Chıpewyan edition is now live

The app is available through the App Store for iPhone and iPad users to download for free

FORT SMITH, NT – Innovative as always, the South Slave Divisional Education Council (SSDEC) has found a way to bring its Chıpewyan language resources to the world with the release of an app designed for both iPhone and iPad users called First Nations Storybook – Chipewyan edition.

Designed to look like a bookshelf, the educational app is available through the App Store and features 40 books from the SSDEC’s collection of Aboriginal language storybooks filled with colourful illustrations and Chıpewyan text. The books, which tell of legends and tales that reflect the traditions, values and experiences of northern Aboriginal Canadians, are read by a fluent Chıpewyan speaker so that readers can follow along and learn the language.

Assistant Superintendent Brent Kaulback is excited for the release of the app, which he developed to support the many books he has published through the SSDEC over the years.

“The First Nations Storybook Project aims to support people who are keen to learn and speak the Chıpewyan language. This app gives users the tools needed to rediscover their language, combining the written and spoken word with beautiful illustrations and photos of Northern life,” he explains.

Kaulback is always on the lookout for the next great northern Canadian story, and encourages budding authors to write, illustrate and record their own books in any of the NWT’s official languages and then submit them to the publisher to be reviewed and potentially included in this growing collection of books.

The First Nations Storybook Project also features a Cree app, published last year, and will soon feature a Slavey version as well. This project would not be possible without the generous funding provided by the Department of Education, Culture and Employment and the Government of the Northwest Territories.