At Niitsitapi Learning Centre, we are lucky to spend our days with students from preschool through grade two as we explore the Alberta curriculum from a variety of First Nations, Metis, and Inuit perspectives.

Thanks to EducationMatters donors, we have been able to expand our cultural programming to include our students’ families.

Through activities such as painting our own tipi, making drums/rattles, designing regalia, listening to Elder guidance, and purchasing resources for our family room and kitchen, we are encouraging the community that supports our students to come together in learning and healing.

One family shared their gratitude for the school and these unique opportunities:

“Our son doesn’t look like a typical First Nation student, so he felt a great deal of disconnect and ‘bullying’ in other settings. Today, he is proud and knows who he is. We needed the holistic approach to learning that Niitsitapi offers. This will help him throughout his life.”

The positive impact of these cultural initiatives was immediate to students and families and the benefits will extend over time to all who come to Niitsitapi Learning Centre to learn.

In 2018, researchers from the University of Calgary, Alberta Education, and Niitsitapi Learning Centre revealed the positive impact of the safe and culturally responsive space we have created in the school.

We could not have provided such rich, deep connections with students, parents, partners and the greater community without the support of EducationMatters donors.

Your support changes the lives of students in Calgary. Please consider making a donation today to the EducationMatters Back to School Campaign to help more students in our city.

We all have a role to play in public education. Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Michelle Ranger
Principal, Niitsitapi Learning Centre