Ribbon Skirt Making

Students from both Laurie Middle School and Parkland Middle School recently took part in a Ribbon Skirt Making Workshop hosted by Faye O’Neil and support from Johanna Kinsman.  During the workshop, students learned about the cultural significance of ribbon skirts and were introduced to techniques used in creating one.

The hands-on experience allowed the students to explore their creativity while developing new sewing and design skills.  The event provided a valuable opportunity for students from both middle schools to collaborate, learn together, and take pare in a meaningful cultural learning experience.

Drumming

Students from Mount Baker, Kootenay Educational Services and Laurie Middle have started drumming, using the drum that MBSS students previously helped to make with Pete Sanchez and Bertha Andrew. Students learned from the Suʔkni Singers, Andrea Alexander and Doreen Alexander about protocols, welcoming and closing of the drum, and many songs. Students were able to feel firsthand how powerful drumming is, and that drumming represents the heartbeat of mother earth. Many students are just starting to learn about their culture while others are strengthening their connections to their culture.

International Peace Pow Wow

Students across the District, along with Elders and Knowledge Keepers, traveled to Lethbridge, Alberta to visit the Galt Museum. During our visit, we had the honour of listening to Elder Blanche, a Blackfoot woman, who shared stories, teachings, and knowledge rooted in Blackfoot traditions. Her words offered students a deeper understanding of culture, history, and the importance of oral storytelling.

Students also had the opportunity to tour the museum exhibits, further connecting classroom learning to lived history and local perspectives.

The following day, the group attended the International Peace Pow Wow, where we experienced powerful drumming, beautiful regalia, and traditional dancing. Our students were proud to participate in some of the dances, demonstrating respect, courage, and community spirit.

Elements Ceremony

The Laurie Middle School Elements Ceremony was held once again this school year, bringing together students and staff for a celebration of culture and community.  The event featured powerful drumming from the Sookenai Singers and impressive grass dance performance by Dreyden W.  In addition,  Joe Pierre spoke about the importance of the elements and their deep symbolic and cultural traditions.  Laurie Middle School students and staff are divided into four house teams representing the four  elements -  ʔa·kinq̌uku (fire) ʔamak (earth) Wuʔu (water) and ʔa·kuʔmi – and will take part in a series of challenges throughout the year.

Yoho National Park

Indigenous Leadership groups from Mount Baker, Laurie Middle School, and Parkland Middle School along with District elders and staff recently embarked on a memorable field trip to Yoho National Park located within the traditional lands of the Ktunaxa  ʔamakʔis.

The trip offered students the opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of the mountains, waterfalls, and forests while deepening their understanding of the land’s cultural and ecological significance.  The tour was led by Ktunaxa Nation Members Dean Nicholas and Levi Soles. 

During the visit to Raven’s Nest Campground students participated in hands on learning about salmon fishing traditions and the importance of salmon to indigenous communities.  Presenter, Hilary Vance shared stories how salmon once thrived in the waters of the Columbia Lake. Students learned how through the impacts of dam construction and environmental change, salmon populations were destroyed in the region, a loss that deeply affected the ecosystem and the people who depended on it.

The trip inspired student to reflect on the importance of environmental stewardship, reconciliation, and a deeper appreciation for Indigenous knowledge.