GNS: Indigenous Knowledge Experience

GYPSD's Indigenous Pathways Lead Teachers participated in an Indigenous Foundational Knowledge learning experience on Friday, October 6, 2023, hosted by Dr. Dwayne Donald from the University of Alberta and Kehteya Bob Cardinal of the Enoch Cree Nation on Kehteya Cardinal's ceremonial lands.

The day began in the Teaching Lodge, learning with and from Kehteya Cardinal, followed by a ceremonial sweat. A group of young adults and their mentor from the area assisted Dr. Donald with preparing for the ceremonial sweat experience. This involved heating lava rock in a fire, preparing the willow branches and water for the ceremony, and assisting during the ceremony with replenishing the hot stones and tending to the needs of the participants inside the lodge. The group then enjoyed a traditional moose stew, bannock, and tea meal.

The objective of the experience was to "begin the year in a good way"; participants were invited to set personal and professional intentions that will guide their work for the coming school year.

This unique and one-of-a-kind learning experience supports and aligns with the Division's priority of providing opportunities for staff to deepen their foundational knowledge about First Nations, Métis and Inuit for the benefit of all students and staff.

Indigenous Knowledge