Many classes across the District had an extra focus on Indigenous Education this month, such as at Windsor Elementary where children worked with Gord Dick from the Tsleil-Waututh and Lil’wat Nations. They created this bulletin board inspired by his art and in celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day.
A ceremony led by Knowledge Keeper Spelexilh Angie Dawson from the Squamish Nation was held at Brentwood Park Elementary. It was the culmination of the school’s Project of Heart that lasted many weeks. All students and staff had the opportunity to create a tile representing their learning about Reconciliation and Canada’s shared history. The tiles were gathered into a spectacular unified art piece created by Trenton (Rain) Pierre of the Katzie Nation. It will be displayed near the entrance as a symbol of the school’s collective work toward Reconciliation.
The two children who created the official T-shirt designs for the District that were revealed in September during Truth and Reconciliation Week were blanketed this month for their contributions. Grade 5 student Paige from the Tal-o-qui-aht Nation, and Grade 7 student Alyssa from the Nisga’a Nation were also joined by family at the school celebration recognizing their achievements. The ceremony at Lakeview Elementary followed local protocol and was led by Knowledge Keeper Spelexilh Angie Dawson and Elder Alroy Baker, who are both from the Squamish Nation.
Students at Brantford Elementary have been learning about Powwow dancing. Peter White from the Ktunaxa Nation shared teachings with the students over several weeks, culminating in a community celebration.
Edmonds Community School held a re-awakening ceremony that was guided by the Musqueam Nation for a Welcome Pole taken down during renovations. The pole was created by the late Master Carver Jackie Timothy from the Tla’amin Nation. It was restored to its rightful home outside the school entrance, in a place of pride for the entire community to enjoy.
At Alpha Secondary, Leadership students joined children at Aubrey Elementary. Together, they learned about the medicine wheel and its four quadrants.
Posted June 2024