The week began with high school students from Balcarres, North Valley, and Cupar participating in a pipe ceremony and hearing from Chief Richard Stonechild of Okanese Cree Nation, Chief Michael Starr of Star Blanket Cree Nation, Treaty Commissioner Dr. Kathy Walker, as well as Elders and Knowledge Keepers.
Throughout the week, students from nearby schools within Prairie Valley School Division and File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council were invited to spend a day at the camp, where they participated in a variety of cultural experiences and land-based learning opportunities.
The camp provided students with meaningful opportunities to connect with the land, learn from Elders and Knowledge Keepers, and deepen their understanding of Indigenous culture, language, and ways of knowing. It is hoped that this inaugural camp marks the beginning of many more opportunities for Balcarres Community School and Okanese Cree Nation to continue learning and working together in partnership.
The feature photo of the story pictures three of our school based administrators learning from Elders and knowledge keepers. Pictured from left to right they are: Sarah Geisler, Balcarres Community School; Elder Clarence Stonechild; Elder Robert Bellegarde; Oskapewis Jason Agecoutay; Lindsey Akrig, Lipton School; and Michelle Geisler, North Valley Elementary