Wood Day

Students and staff from Laurie, Parkland and Mount Baker came together for another successful Wood Day out at ʔaqam. Students worked alongside others to chop, gather, and prepare firewood to deliver to community members’ homes. This meaningful annual initiative is a wonderful example of students giving back to their community, demonstrating teamwork, and showing care and respect for Elders and community members. Through their hard work and generosity, students learn the importance of helping others and strengthening community connections.

Laurie Middle School recently brought staff, students, elders, and community members together for an Elements Ceremony celebrating the four elements represented in School District No. 5 Indigenous logo; wuʔu (water), ʔamak (earth), ʔa·kinq̓uku (fire), ʔa·kuʔmi (air).

Staff and students were divided into four teams, each representing one of the elements. The event provided an opportunity to learn about Indigenous knowledge, cultural traditions and the important connections we share with the natural world. Sookenai Singers opened with the Honouring Song, which created a meaningful and respectful beginning to the gathering and Dreyden Williams shared a traditional dance demonstrating cultural traditions of the Ktunaxa.

Ms. Juanita shared her knowledge of traditional Ktunaxa games, highlighting the importance of cultural teachings, connections, and learning through play. Joe Pierre spoke about the significance of the four elements in each of our lives and reminded us of our responsibility to care and protect them.

The Element Event was a meaningful opportunity for the LMS community to come together, celebrate Indigenous knowledge and culture, and reflect on our shared responsibility to care for the land and the elements that sustain us. Through these teachings, students and staff were reminded that stewardship begins with respect, awareness, and the actions we take every day.