The Kativik Ilisarniliriniq, the school board of Nunavik, was created in 1975, under the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA).

Under the JBNQA, the Kativik Ilisarniliriniq is granted the power and jurisdiction to develop and deliver specific educational services and programs consistent with Inuit culture. The mission of the Kativik Ilisarniliriniq is therefore twofold. On the one hand, it acts as a regular regional school board for all Nunavik residents. On the other hand, it also acts as an exclusive Inuit institution with unique powers and jurisdictions that aim to protect, maintain, and develop the Inuit language, culture, and way of life.

Since 1978, the Kativik Ilisarniliriniq has been the exclusive provider of academic services to the population of Nunavik. The education programs developed by the school board are offered in all schools of the 14 Nunavik communities, in Inuktitut as first language and in French and English as second languages. The school board operates 17 primary and secondary schools as well as 5 adult education center.