'uy' skweyul and happy March!

It is with great pleasure we share this school year's first newsletter for Indigenous families of the Qualicum School District. We invite you to explore the different opportunities and resources. Likewise, if you have any questions please feel free to contact us!

Katie Marren (kmarren@sd69.bc.ca) - District Indigenous Principal

Sarah Elson-Haugan (selson-haugan@sd69.bc.ca)- District Indigenous Support Teacher

Janine Chartrand (jchartrand@sd69.bc.ca) - District Indigenous Administrative Assistant

If you have any questions, please reach out to your student's Indigenous Liaison Worker or one of the district team.

hay ch q'a

March 1 - Hoobyiee - Nisga'a New Year. This is a time where communities come together to celebrate the changes in the seasons. Traditionally, this celebration takes place when the oolichan return to the Nass Valley.

The Arctic Winter Games are taking place in Matsu, Alaska from March 10-16, 2024. This competitive event is intended to "promote the benefits of sport, to build partnerships, and to promote culture and values" (Artic Winter Games International Committee).

Autumn Peltier, an Anishinaabe rights advocate, began her work as a water protector at the age of 12. She spoke candidly about the need for clean water to be accessible to all and the importance of protecting water systems. Her passion and courage resulted in her being invited to share her knowledge on the national and world stages. Although World Water Day was created in 1993, Autumn's work is inspirational and a contemporary example of the importance of Indigenous water rights in Canada.

Revitalization of Indigenous Languages is an integral part of Truth and Reconciliation. If the Indigenous languages of these lands are not protected, learned, and shared, there is no other place in the world where we can find them. Check out the links below for some language learning opportunities.

Be a Good Ancestor is a beautiful book by Leona and Gabrielle Prince. With spectacular illustrations grounded in Indigenous teachings, this book focuses on the collective responsibility to take care of the earth and to protect the natural resources.

This book is a great read for all ages.

Would you like a copy of this book? Email Janine at jchartrand@sd69.bc.ca

Are you interested in learning Indigenous language? There are some great classes and resources available.

First Voices hosts a collection of First Peoples languages with digital learning resources for a range of languages - including hul'q'umi'num. Games, songs, and stories are used to share language.

Introductory Michif Language Course (southern language) is a 6 week zoom course starting on April 15. This course focuses on the celebration of Metis culture and is being supported by Outdoor Learning.

Lac La Ronge Indian Band has made their Cree Language program available to the public. This website has activities, songs, and videos to help with language development.

John Marston, a Stz'uminus carver/artist, is featured in a documentary exploring the similarities and differences between Coast Salish arts and Indigenous arts from Papua New Guinea. This 2006 film opens the floor for discussion around Indigenous cultures from across the globe, while exploring the nuances of carving from a Coast Salish perspective.

John Marston's "Salmon Cycle" is a part of the Salish Weave Collection owned by Qualicum School District.

Kw'umut Lelum is hosting the event "Honouring our Children: Gathering for Parents and Caregivers" on March 15 in Nanaimo. This event will include workshops, vendors, and information on local service providers.

Please click the button below for more information and registration.

On February 26, a group of students at Ecole Ballenas Senior Secondary were invited to listen and learn about Indigenous languages. The students engaged in an honest and profound way while listening to the teachings shared by Jessie Recalma and Denise Augustine.

One student wrote, "language only sleeps (it belongs to the land)" and another noticed that for a person to "participate in the culture", a person first needs to know the language.

Thank you to Jessie and Denise for sharing these great teachings and stories with the youth!

Equity in Action is a framework that focuses on improving the educational success of Indigenous students. Educators use the four pillars of policy and governance, learning environment, learning profile, and pedagogical core to support First Nation, Metis, and Inuit students.

Checkout the video to feel inspired and encouraged in this work.