Aboriginal Education School Sooke School District

Aboriginal Education School
Sooke School District
June 2015
Spring Newsletter
Inside this issue:
Our Vision, Mission, and Values
Program
Welcome
2
Our Staff
3
Celebrating
Student Success
4
Special Event
34
Bookmark
36
Aboriginal Languages
Below are the three words for thank you for our three island regions:
Hych’ka
- Sencoten and Halq’emeylem
Kleco Kleco - Nuu-chah-nulth
Gilakasla
- Kwakwaka’ wakw
community with
complementary new school
merchandise! The Royal Bay
Our newsletter is one of our
ways to share with community Secondary Theatre name was
established with our connection
and with schools about our
with Scia’new Nation and the
Aboriginal initiatives in
nations the territory the school
school classrooms.
is built on, which is Esquimalt
We are pleased to share our
Nations and Songhees Nation.
new schools will feature local Current Belmont students were
Aboriginal art at Belmont
able to deliver longhouse gifts
Secondary and new theatre
to each nation. The Board of
name at Royal Bay Secondary. Education was pleased to share
The art at Belmont was
appreciation for the theatre
created in partnership with
name TEECHAMITSA with a
the local nation we work with, formal letter and honouraria to
Scia’new Nation. The artist
the nations. We are grateful to
Weyla Chipps-Roy is a
all the nations and elders we
Scia’new Nation member and work with for the advise,
works in our Aboriginal
guidance, and generosity of
Education department. The
volunteer time to bring both of
community was able to work
the key features to our school
directly with community to
district. Thanks to Scia’new
establish the floor decal design Nation, T’Sou-ke Nation, and
to reflect local culture.
Pacheedaht Nation. The
Belmont thanked the
projects are installed to teach all
Department News
students and community about
the local contemporary Coast
Salish Peoples’ territory so
closely connected to us by land,
sea, and sky.
The Aboriginal Education
Departments and Aboriginal
Education council brings
holistic, respectful, and
balanced programming that is
cultural and reflective of the
nations we work with Coast
Salish and Nuu-chah-nulth– as
well as representative of the
diverse Aboriginal students we
work with in our district—we
are pleased to share the rich,
engaging initiatives that bring a
collective voice to learning in
every school for all—including
our local communities.
Kleco Kleco
Kathleen King-Hunt, Principal
Métis Organizations
Our Traditional Territories
School District Schools are located on
two traditional territories:

Coast Salish
T’Sou-ke Nation – Sooke
Scia’new Nation – Beecher Bay

Nuu-chah-nulth
Pacheedaht Nation
– Port Renfrew
Page 2
Hych’ka
‘SD No. 62
There are 1020
Aboriginal students in
our program this
year!’ First Nation
represents 12 percent
of Aboriginal
students.’

Métis Nation of Greater
Victoria. MNGV

Métis Community Services

SD No. 62 has 240 Métis
students in our schools!

Marsee—Michif Language
Aboriginal Education School District No. 62
Our Staff
School — District Teachers — Literacy and E.S.D.
Natasha Burke – Belmont Secondary Teacher
Kathy Sudlow – Edward Milne Community School, EMCS Teacher
Gillian LeRose—Westshore Schools , Port Renfrew Elementary Teacher
Erin Wood – Belmont Secondary & ESD Teacher
Jon Carr—Spencer Middle & ESD Teacher
Marlys Denny – Elementary Teacher
Huw Griffiths – Elementary Teacher, Port Renfrew Elementary Teacher
Chelsea Richardson, Elementary Teacher
Kathleen Marshall—Journey Middle School & Savory Teacher
Ana Galac—Dunsmuir Middle School Teacher
School Teachers
Loni Skelton – Westshore First Nations Grad Program
Kelly Dvorak — Port Renfrew Elementary
District E.S.D. Support Workers
Sam Peekeekoot - Poirier, Crystal View, Wishart, Colwood & Happy Valley
Sherry Thomas - Hans Helgesen Elementary
Murielle Lagace - Ruth King Elementary
Sharon Bond - David Cameron Elementary & Wishart Elementary
Sherry Thomas - John Stubbs
Other District Staff
Lavina Charles – Halq’emeylem Language
Shirley Alphonse— T’Sou-ke Elder Project & Sum SHA Thut Lellum
District Aboriginal Education Support Workers, A.E.S.W.
Trish McNabb – Westshore Colwood Campus
Lynn Ferguson – Belmont Secondary
Laurie Gibson– Journey Middle
Sherri Rose—Spencer, Saseenos & Savory Elementary
Weyla Chipps-Roy - Dunsmuir Middle & Sangster Elementary
Derrick Titian - Edward Milne Community School
Dennis Warbrick – Langford Campus & Metchosin Campus/Wishart/Hans Helgesen
Michelle Wolf – Poirier Elementary
Charlene George – John Muir/Saseenos/Sooke
Amber Rowse-Simmons – Saseenos Elementary & Sooke Elementary
Rosalind Wilkinson - Happy Valley & John Stubbs Elementary/Middle
Nadine Charles — Westshore Goldstream Campus, FN Grad
Murielle Lagace – Ruth King Elementary
Sharon Bond – David Cameron & Wishart Elementary
Sherry Thomas – Hans Helgesen Elementary
Sharlene Chaves – Lakewood, Millstream, Crystal View, Willway & Colwood Elem.
District Office
Kathleen King-Hunt – District Principal
Leslie Morison – District Secretary
Our Website
www.sd62.bc.ca/ Aboriginal education
Page 3
Spring 2014 - 2015
Celebrating Student Success
John Stubbs Memorial
storytelling about the salmon were 0 Métis Nation of Greater Victotold by Earl Claxton Jr., Saanich
ria, MNGV display table
and knowledgekeeper, John Bradley
0 Photo booth– fun fun fun
Williams, Saanich/Ahousat.
On February 25, 2015 the Celebrating Student Success evening
began with local Coast Salish
There are many highlights to the
welcome by Chief Russ Chipps, evening including the ‘Gallery
Elder Shirley Alphonse, and Nuu Walk’ where the Aboriginal Educa-chah-nulth Elder Bill Jones to a tion staff displays Aboriginal stushared territory of the Esquimalt Nation and Songhees Nation and to the nations we
work with in SD62– Scia’new
Nation, T’Sou-ke Nation and
Pacheedaht Nation. In addition to this each local nation
we work with had a display
Scia’new Nation Drum Group
table. Pacheedaht Nation’s
display was created by the
youth group to show the unique- dent work on display boards. An
ness of the Nuu-chah-nulth with incredible testament to the value of
current photos of community
engagement in education by stuinitiatives. T’Sou-ke Nation and dents and families. Well done
Scia’new Nation created a display team! (See page 3 for the staff list)
board featuring facts and photos Other experiential centers were;
that share knowledge!
0 Salmon art table
Event attendees engaged in a fun
0 Traditional Tea Table by T’SouMingle Activity with a trading
ke Nation
card to meet new people in the
district. For the first time, Bee0 Grad Silent Auction (very popucher Bay or Scia’new Nation
lar and hych’ka for bidding!)
youth drum group shared songs
under the mentorship of Isabelle 0 Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreement display of
Charles and Raymona Peter.
goals and opportunity for feedOur trustees are so kind to welback by families
come families and attend. Our
0 Makola Housing art project distheme this year was the four
play table of recent projects
salmon which is taught in The
Saanich Year by author Earl Claxton; Illustrator John Elliott. Oral
Page 4
0
Local Nation Territory displays
0
Door prizes– donated by community businesses and First Nation communities!
The biggest treat of the evening was
a complementary harvest dinner
cooked by our own EMCS Culinary
Arts program– very tasty and over
the top service. An even bigger treat
was the complementary fresh crab
donated by the Pacheedaht Nation
Fisheries department– Helen and
Jeff Jones. Incredible generosity!
This event can not happen without
the incredible planning by the middle school youth and the middle
school Aboriginal Education staff
committee. The MetoWe youth preplanned the theme, elder poem,
CENHENEN– Humpback Returns to
Earth. Artwork by John Elliott
experiential centres, food ideas and
more at sessions in February at
RRU, Sneq’wa, Blue Heron House.
0
0
CENQOLEW, Dog Salmon
MetoWe Youth Leadership role is a
learning role also. And, this year’s
youths’ high energy transpired
throughout the interactive engergizers presented and each youths’ role
in taking care of elders and the
“ELDER POEM” was read to all the
elders present at the event. Each
elder received a gift from the youth.
The youth are thankful to elders
and knowledge keepers in SD62
schools.
Rebekkah, Mahea, Lauren
danced to Chandellier
Belmont grade twelve dance
class students— Tanja, Victoria,
Katie and Cheyanne did Métis
jigging lead by mentor Connie
Kulhavy
0 Sci’new First Nation items
0 Hank Chipps - Art
0 Sherry Thomas – hand-made
Cowichan Sweater
0 Cowichan Trading Post
0 CIBC Sidney
0 Smiles Esthetics – child’s electronic toothbrush
0
MetoWe Youth Leadership and 0 Blue Raven Gallery - jewellery
0 Moksha Yoga Westshore
Dave Betts, Ass’t Superinten0 Stillpoint Community Acupuncdent, read ‘Elder Acknowledgeture
ment Poem’
0
Energizers by MetoWe, Talitha
and Mira with Paven and
Kaitlyn.
0 Fairway Market (Jacklin)
0 Starbucks
The Aboriginal Education Department Celebrating Student
Success is thankful to SD62 system for supporting our events
Each year at Celebrating Student
to celebrate learning together.
Success we are pleased to give all
schools an opportunity to showcase We also appreciate the attena youth talent. This year we had six tion to the event by our Facilities Department to ensure our
students perform a talent they are
busses bring families to the
proud of:
CENTAWEN, Coho Salmon
event from EMCS or Ruth King
0 Danielle from Dunsmuir sang
rendez-vous points and from
0 TriCity Collision & Repairs
Royals
Pacheedaht Nation on the west
0 My-Chosen Café
coast.
0 Faron from John Stubbs read
0 Maid for Cleaning
Froggy Gets Dressed picture book We would also like to say a big
CENTEKI—Sockeye Moon
thank-you to the nations, Scia’new
Nation, T’Sou-ke Nation, and
Pacheedaht Nation for the donated
items for the end of the evening big
door prize draws. And, a heartfelt
thanks to the local businesses for
donating to the graduation ceremony silent auction. This is the list of
donators for this event:
0 Pacheedaht Nation (Bill Jones) - community- made dream catcher and a
case of salmon
0
0 Goji Strength Club
0 Bitez Sandwich Bar
0 Crusher Combat Sports – one
week free trial X 2
0 Chamas Art Society – Set of art
cards
We hope we haven’t missed anyone to thank.
We look forward to another
event next February!
Spring 2014—2015
Page 5
0 T-Sou-ke Nation items
Elders Appreciation Poem 2014/15
Elders, mentors, you are very important teachers in the way we live.
You are always willing to teach tradition, culture, always willing to share and give.
Be it language, singing, dancing, history, storytelling, medicine or art.
Because you share traditional knowledge, you have given School district 62 a very good start.
We have reached our five year goal in the Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreement.
The goals we strived for are, Sense of Belonging, Aboriginal Ways of Knowing, Language and Achievement.
And for sharing your knowledge with our children, from high school down to kindergarten,
we would now like to show you our utmost appreciation, and take the opportunity now to raise our hands
for all that you do.
To let you know, your importance in our communities and schools, we would like to say a big heartfelt,
HIS’WKE/HYCHKA, Kleco kleco, Gilakas’la, Marsee, and Thank you.
Respectfully,
School District 62
Me to We Leadership– getting ready to read the poem to the Elders
Page 6
Aboriginal Education School District No. 62
(From R to L) Fern Perkins, Russell Chipps, Bill Jones,
Shirley Alphonse, Rick Peter, John Bradley Williams
Isabelle Charles
One idea created from the
Me to We leadership days!
Me To We– Sacred Circle Pictures
(From R to L) Rick Peter, Shirley Alphonse,
Andre Spencer, Earl Claxton Jr.,
J.B. Williams
Me to We– planning CSS event work
Elder Poem practice with Dave Betts
Page 7
Spring 2014—2015
Elementary News
elders speak and view performances from T’Sou-ke
Greetings from Port Renfrew
Nation Dancers and Beecher
Elementary!
Bay’s youth drumming
What a great year we have had
group. Of course there was
working out in this community! an amazing lunch on offer.
It is hard to believe it is already So thanks to all the hands
May!! We just wanted to rethat prepared that for us. A
introduce ourselves: we are the
big Hych’ka to the Scia’new
Aboriginal Education teachers at Nation for inviting us to visPort Renfrew Elementary this
it. We hope this is an annual
year: Mr. Huw works on Tuesevent. Also a special thanks
days and Miss. Gillian on
to Laurie Gibson & KathWednesdays every week! We
leen Marshall for organizing
also are very lucky to be workthe day and including us.
ing with Ms. Dvorak and return- Another field trip we went
ing school staff, Laurie and An- on in April was to Botanical
gie. We have had such a busy
Beach. Kristine, a staff
and exciting year at Port Renmember of Pacheedaht Nafrew Elementary. Each month
tion and inter-tidal seaweed
we having been participating in expert, joined us on a fantasCommunity Club hosted by
tic day out. We couldn’t
Pacheedaht Nation. This is a
have picked a better day as
great opportunity for students to the tide was low and the sun
be out of the classroom while
was shining. This let us exlearning and enjoy an afternoon plore the many tide-pools
in the community. In April we
and amazing rock forlearned about gardening and
mations of the area. We
building bird houses and in May were able to find and obwe are heading to the beach for
serve creatures like seaan afternoon of fun! We have
anemones, sea-stars and difalso had the chance to go on
ferent urchins which were
some great field trips this year.
very cool. Having Kristine,
In April we joined lots of other
and lots of parents, grandstudents from schools across the parents and younger siblings
district to visit the Scia’new Na- with us was a real treat as
tion in East Sooke for a celebra- they shared a lot of
tion at the Long House. When
knowledge about the area
we arrived Chief Russ Chips
with the staff and students.
took us on a tour of all the new
Who knew bull kelp was so
developments happening at Spir- interesting and could be
it Bay. We were then invited
used as a skipping rope? We
into the longhouse to listen to
are looking forward to a few
PORT RENFREW ELEMENTARY
Page 8
more trips before the end of the
year including a day at Jordan
River, cedar barking with
Pacheedaht Nation and a trip to
Avatar Grove. We feel very
lucky to be able to get outside
and learn about the land on the
land; true experiential learning.
On April 28th we participated in
a cultural exchange day! Students from Ditidaht traveled to
Port Renfrew and joined Port
Renfrew Elementary for a musical performance by Ed
Peekeekoot. It was a great
morning and students were able
to go up and play various instruments with Ed. Thank you
Ed for sharing your music and
stories with us! The cultural exchange day continued into community where we shared a wonderful BBQ lunch with community members and were presented with drumming and dancing
by the Ditidaht students. We
ended the day with an exciting
game of lahal! We also hosted a
Ready Set Learn event at the
school! It was a great day! We
had two classes from John Muir
join us for the day. Bill Jones
provided a beautiful welcome
and acknowledgment of the
day. Students participated in
various station activities with
honored guests, Linda Ermineskin, Earl Claxton Jr.., John
Williams and Pacheedaht provided our students with a wonderful lunch.
Elementary News
PORT RENFREW ELEMENTARY
(cont’d)
Thank you to everyone for
participating, it was a wonderful
event.
We want to thank everyone for
welcoming us to Port Renfrew
Elementary this year. We have
truly had a great year getting to
know all the students, families and
the community. We wish everyone
a safe, happy and fun-filled
summer!
band.
On “Earth Day” many of the classes went
out into the Royal Roads area and pulled
the broom bush. The K’s picked up litter.
That’s great!!
We did “Jump Rope for The Heart”, and
students raised about $2,000!
Congratulations to the students and to the
staff for helping.
clean. Classes used recycled paper to
make paper monsters for recycle to go
into. The purpose of this was for
students to become more aware of
recycling. Swan Lake did a presentation
for Mrs. Segato and Mrs. Bennett’s
classes. It was a new program about
deer and how they live and can be prey.
Students learned a lot and teachers really
liked it!! There was a big turn out for
the school cross country practice and the
district race went well!!
On May 15th Colwood school is having a
Walkathon to help raise money for a
playground.
On April 6/15 John Stubbs Elem, Grades
K to 4 came to visit Crystal View to see
Grades 1- 6 went to Music Monday at
what the school was like. This was to
Bear Mountain Arena for a sing-a-long
help students see the new school they
that will be done across Canada at the
may be going to in September. These
same time—neat!!
classes were buddied up by grade with
Gillian LeRose & Huw Griffiths
I would like to thank Sam Peekeekoot for our school classes. These classes
COLWOOD ELEMENTARY
working with our students.
welcomed the visiting students and did
various activities with them. This was
I ( Sharlene Chaves) enjoy working with Take Care Everyone!!
neat to see the interacting of all the
the staff and students at Colwood Elem. I
Sharlene Chaves, AESW
students meeting for the first time. Then
provide academic support to students
after a short time everyone was off to the
when needed, as well I instruct
gym to see a Story Theater presentation
Aboriginal Art/ culture to many of the
CRYSTAL VIEW ELEMENTARY
on “Hey Bully, Bully”.
classrooms. I love seeing what art
I (Sharlene Chaves) have had the
students draw from using ovoids and U
Sharlene Chaves, AESW
pleasure of working at Crystal View
shapes! Seeing the art around the school
Elem. The staff and students are so
is awesome!!
welcoming and helpful. I help students
The students at this school are
with their academic work, if needed. As
participating in a run from Victoria B. C. well, I provide Aboriginal Art/culture
to Newfoundland. They run at the school lessons for many of the classrooms. I
and outside and it is all added and
have lots of fun working with students.
recorded by the Secretary, Mrs. Huzzey. It’s so neat to see students’ art work in
What fun!!
the halls and classrooms.
During Literacy Week the whole school
wrote their thoughts about if you could
go somewhere in the world, where would
you like to go. Students dressed up as
their favorite character with their poem in
their pocket and teachers read to their
health hussel group.
In late January during “Literacy Week”
staff and students wore t-shirts that had
words, letters or text on them. “Fairy
Tale Land” was set up in the forest
outside the school. Students got to meet
different characters from stories along the
path. Students really enjoyed this. There
were trivia questions for each grade and
In Miss Chow’s class they had
the whole class had to work together to
Aboriginal Role Models, Earl Claxton
come up with one answer to the question.
and John Williams, and they told the
story about how the mosquito came to be. Each class won. Students did reading in
the library and received a book
Marlys Denny, our Aboriginal Literacy
mark. DARE Grad 5’s had their
teacher, is reading stories about the
ceremony in the library and ate lunch
different Aboriginal Peoples across
outside. Div 1 was studying about
Canada. Staff and students are loving it. different countries. Each student brought
in some food that their country ate and
We had the Sunder Band come from a
shared, which was a special lunch !! For
little town in Alberta play for us. They
“Earth Month” the Principal gave each
were fabulous to hear. It’s neat to see
older students still want to participate in class a week to keep the school grounds
Jenna, Colwood
Page 9
Spring 2014—2015
Elementary News
For science observation many classrooms
have a tank filled with pond water and
vegetation. Tad poles and snails are
Mr.Treloar’s class had Aboriginal Role
added so students can observe life in a
Model, John Williams in talking about
nature of today and the past. The students pond.
Miss Sandra’s class walked to Langford
really enjoyed this. I wish everyone all
Lake to see what was on the shoreline
the best through the Year!!
and in the water and how the land
Sharlene Chaves, AESW
dropped off suddenly. They talked about
the plants around the area. Then
everyone went to Swan Lake. Students
WILLWAY ELEMENTARY
liked the dip netting part the most, as
they got to see what lives and grows
there. Students met “Wrinkles the Turtle”
and they liked that!! I did an Aboriginal
drawing of a pond area with the class.
The students’ work looked really good!
In Mr. Daniel’s class Charlene George
came in to make Long House diaramas
I ( Sharlene Chaves ) enjoy working at
with students. She also showed the class
Millstream Elem, with all the staff and
how to do her version of the alphabet /
students there. I help students with
numbers. The teacher then had the
academic work when needed. As well,
students make a legend using the
I instruct Aboriginal Art/culture to
alphabet/numbers learned from
many of the classrooms. I have a lot of
Charlene. These all look great!!
fun doing this.
“Mad Science” started in April 21/15 and
We had Michael Burtolotto in our
will go on for 6 sessions. This involves
school who provided a Anti-bully talk
several fun and crazy science
to the students. He wrote a story called
experiments that students get to learn and
“Apples and Pineapples”.
be involved in. Students have so much
fun!!
The Naden Band performed and they
I ( Sharlene Chaves) have been lucky to The last “Scholastic Book Fair” is
were lovely to listen to. Julia Sihota
scheduled for the school in June.
applied for “Art Starts” grant and was work at Willway Elem, with such great
Students buy one book and get a second
accepted for this. Students worked on staff. I really enjoy working at this
school. Over the years I’ve watched
book free. This promotes reading and
spoken poetry and a dance to go with
students grow and move on to middle
literacy for our students. The
this. After a few lessons the students
school. I provide academic support to
Scholastics is donating all the money
did a performance for the school and
many students when needed, as well
from this book fair to the “Big Brother /
guests. This was interesting because
instruct Aboriginal Art/culture for many Big Sister Program”.
some students spoke some poetry
Many of our schools in this district offer
about what makes them happy and then of the classes.
During “Literacy Week” students made a “Strong Start Early Learning” Centres.
went into a dance which was “Hip
poem; put it in their pockets and then
This is a school-based early program that
Hop” style. The theme was all about
is a free drop in program for children
being happy. Each class had a different read it in the hallway. The students
dressed up as their favorite character
aged five and under, accompanied by
song, poem and dance. Students had
from a book they like. On “Earth Day”
their parents, caregivers, or
lots of fun!!
the school was in an assembly learning
grandparents. Your child will explore
On “Earth Day” the whole school went about how they can help the
and play with you in an safe environment
out to clean up their community. Miss environment. For instance they learned
that is friendly and inspiring. This is what
King’s class planted sunflower seeds in that recycling as much as they can
will be offered: learn songs, enjoy
their garden. As well, they helped
helps. Then all classes went to
music, listen to stories, finger plays,
clean up the other classes gardens.
Goldstream Park for a Nature
finger painting, explore art through a
Each class has a garden to plant in and Walk. Some classes tidied up the school
variety of activities, develop all senses,
take care of. Chelsea Richardson, our garden.
play with natural and real materials,
Aboriginal Literacy Worker, is reading Ms. Sanford’s class studied baby snails
pretend play toy animals, trucks, and
Aboriginal stories about different
until they were ready to be released for
dolls play dress up, and so much more….
Aboriginal cultures across Canada to a arts/Science work.
MILLSTREAM ELEMENTARY
Page 10
few classes. These classes are really
enjoying the stories.
Elementary School News
WILLWAY ELEMENTARY (cont’d)
traditional territory. Hychka
You will meet other families and get to
share in the excitement and success of
your child’s early learning
experiences! This program is offered
at: Willway elem, Colwood
elem., Millstream elem., Ruth King
elem., Hans Helgesen elem., Beecher
Bay Outreach, Port Renfrew Outreach,
and John Muir elem. You can contact
one of these schools, if interested.
Take Care.
Sharlene Chaves, AESW
SOOKE ELEMENTARY
ÍY SC̸ÁĆEL ~ a beautiful day!
Greetings to all ~ and a big
hy’j’ka/raised hands to students/
staff/parents at Sooke School for
welcoming me at the end of
March.
I am here for one morning a week
(Thursdays) and have enjoyed
getting to know all of you. In
May and June we have invited a
few role models to share with
many of the grades; Bertha and
Joe Landrie (sharing Métis
culture/information/songs), Rick
Peter (joining Rhys Pugh full day
of classes), and myself for forest/
beach habitat walks.
THE GATHERING has exciting
lunch time gatherings where
language and art activities take
place.
Charlene George, AESW Worker
ECOLE POIRIER ELEMENTARY
Once again I would just like to
acknowledge and thank the
T’Sou-ke Nation for allowing us
to work, live and play on their
Rick Peter, Role Model
Nations people that lived and
continue to live here.
I have been working with
different classes doing art
projects with them and have
enjoyed watching the children
learn about totem poles and
the history of them and the
First Peoples use of the
Longhouses. We are working
on a diorama of what a
traditional village would look
like. The trip to the museum
and the informative lecture by
Leslie made this all the more
fun and such an opportunity
for learning while having fun!
The classes have been able to
take advantage of having role
models Earl Claxton Jr. and
Elder John Bradley Williams,
knowledge keeper, come and
guide children through the
plants and traditions of the
local area. The area behind
and to the side of the school
are perfect for exploring our
local plants. With Spring upon
us and trips around the
neighborhood many classes
have taken advantage of the
Leslie McGarry, from the Victoria local wild life that lives
Friendship Native Centre, came to around the pond by our
our school and presented lessons school. Many classes have had
the chance to raise frogs from
to our classes, as well, we have
taken trips to the Museum to enjoy eggs. They have learned the
and learn about the First Nations cycles and how to take care of
them. This was awesome
Communities that inhabit this
beautiful area. The students seem because frogs are struggling to
to really take to heart the lessons survive in the changing
environment.
about the trials and the
accomplishments of the First
Wow the time has flown by again.
Where does the time go; and
another question is how do we
manage to pack so many amazing
guests and activities into such a
short period of time? Here at
Ecole Poirier Elementary in
February we had the “Mad
Scientist” come to our school and
present many new and exciting
magic tricks; and to add to the
excitement, they did workshops
after school as well.
Page 11
Spring 2014—2015
Elementary School News
ECOLE POIRIER
ELEMENTARY (cont’d)
Wheew, it’s been an exciting fast
past year here at Ecole Poirier
Elementary and I have enjoyed
every minute of it. It has been a
joy and an honor working with all
the students and staff here and a
big Hychka to the welcoming
nature of this school and
especially to Stephanie.
Ecole Poirier also had the luck to
be able to have the “Sooke
Philharmonic” come and play for
the school, and it was an amazing
concert. This is also tied into
“Music Monday”, which was
hosted all across Canada. The
children loved it and our choir got
a chance to impress the whole
school with their performance, as Michelle Wolf, AESW
well. With their hard work and
HAPPY VALLEY
dedication they travelled to
Victoria to receive an award for
their excellence.
What an exciting day it was here
when we had “Jump Rope for
Health”! It was an all morning
affair with different stations using
the skipping rope for many
different games and challenges.
What fun it was despite the
pouring rain. The children were
awesome and had great attitudes.
They also raised money for the
cause. Way to go Poirier Panthers!
On our agenda as the years comes
to a thundering close is a trip to
the “Ladybug Green House” with
T’Sou-ke Band member Christine
George. The children are very
excited about this outing. They
will be able to tie in what they
have learned from Elder Earl
Claxton and John Bradley
Williams, Knowledge Keeper,
which adds to Christine’s
knowledge.
The year shall end with a big
shebang as the grade 5’s head out
to Camp Thunder Bird for a few
days for fun and recreation.
Page 12
board was a reflection of our
students’ hard work and many
talents! Great Job everyone!
Mrs. St. Jean’s class had the
wonderful opportunity to visit
Scia’new Nations’ Longhouse.
The students were given a tour of
Spirit Bay, told traditional oral
stories and entertained by
Scia’new Nation Drum Group. We
also ALL participated in the
“Friendship Dance”, what fun!!
We had a wonderful opportunity
at this school this year, ‘Artist in
Residency Program’. A dance
teacher and spoken word artist
will work with the students for
about 2 weeks. Dance is done
during PE and spoken word during
music. At the end the students will
create an original piece and
perform them in May at an
assembly. Wow, not only do we
have great artists, but also they
have some moves! I can’t wait to
The school year is almost over and see their presentations.
it has been super busy at Happy
Throughout the school year we
Valley. From the Grizzlies visit to have had many community Role
“Family Movie Night” and the
Models come into classrooms
“Terry Fox Run” we have been up where they have shared their
and running! “Jump Rope for
knowledge and helped staff and
Heart” was started up by some
students learn Aboriginal Ways of
students doing performances to
Knowing. I would like to
get the whole school up and
acknowledge Charlene George,
moving! The Aboriginal
Jeff Welch, Leslie McGarry, Earl
Department hosted their annual
Claxton Jr, John Bradley
event “Celebration of Aboriginal Williams, Chief Russ Chipps,
Student Success” on February 25th, Isabelle Charles, Fern & Mark
at John Stubbs School. Art work
Perkins, Bertha Landrie and the
was collected from all the students Scia’new Nation Drum Group.
and displayed on huge boards in
Many Hych’ka’s to all of you.
the gym. I must say the art work
that the students submitted was
amazing and Happy Valley’s
Elementary News
Mr. Hanson’s class was visited by
With all the changes in the school Leslie McGarry from the Victoria
district, I would like to wish good Native Friendship Center. Leslie
luck to our grade 5&6 students as presented to the class. She spoke
they will be starting middle school to them about the culture of the
Aboriginal People of Canada.
in September. To all the staff and
Mr. Marten’s class at David
students, have a wonderful
Cameron hosted Mark and Fern
summer!
Perkins from the Métis Nation of
Rosalind Wilkinson AESW
Greater Victoria. They did two
workshops as a part of the Métis
Enhancement Agreement.
Wishart also welcomed Dennis
Warbrick as additional Aboriginal
support to our students there. He is
looking forward to working with
students and staff of Wishart.
HAPPY VALLEY (cont’d)
accomplishments and hard work.
What a great place to be! We've
had so many visitors to Sangster
this year it's hard to mention them
all. The kids enjoyed jigging
classes and Dunsmuir's Dance
Academy came and did a dance
presentation for the whole school.
Mrs. Hutchinson’s class was even
a part of the presentation. The
whole gym erupted with laughter
and glee when the giant shark
came out during the beach themed
dance.
Sangster put on an amazing pop
art themed “Beatles” show, with
singing and art work galore. Even
As the year comes to an end, with a yellow submarine! What fun it's
all the activities, and learning, it
been to get to know and work with
has been an exciting year, and I
the staff and spend my days with
look forward to a beautiful
such amazing children.
WR, Happy Valley, Gr. 1
summer. I wish you all a safe and
We lucked out with some
DAVID CAMERON AND WISHART
relaxing summer.
beautiful weather when the whole
school came together for “Beach
Hello from David Cameron, and
Sharon Bond, AESW
Clean Up Day”. It's quite the sight
Wishart Elementary. Spring is in
the air, and we are all looking
to see, an entire school trekking
SANGSTER ELEMENTARY
forward to the sunny days, and
down the to the gorgeous Lagoon
lots of outdoor activities.
Beach. All of the students were
Hello friends and families of
wonderful at participating, with
Sangster Elementary. I'm sure
David Cameron is a busy place.
everyone feels as I do when I say I each class clearing a section of
We recently had our parentcan't believe how quickly this year beach. After working together as
teacher conferences, and students is flying by!
little ambassadors for a cleaner
started their cross country. The
earth everyone enjoyed the rest of
What a year it's been so far. The
Sooke District held their cross
a sunshiny afternoon on the beach.
country on Wednesday, April 15 hallways and classrooms are
Under the watchful eyes of
at JDF, and another on April 29th. always bustling with activity and
teachers, staff and lifeguards the
lately the sunshine is calling
Mr. Mussell’s gr. 4/5 class from
children ran, played climbed and
David Cameron and Mrs. Gill’s
everyone outside regularly to
splashed in the water.
class from Wishart Elementary
enjoy the nature that surrounds us.
attended the T’Sou-ke Nation’s
Sangster Elementary is truly a
The wonderful recognition
Solar Tour. Students learned how
gem of a little school. There is
ceremonies with the whole school
the community is using solar
such a sense of community and
power to run the business offices has kids beaming with pride as
every member of the staff is a
they celebrate their
and a few of their homes.
pleasure to work with.
Page 13
Spring 2014—2015
Elementary School News
SANGSTER ELEMENTARY (cont’d)
I'm looking forward to continuing
our nature walks and seeing what
other wonderful activities the remainder of the school year brings.
Thank you all for letting me be a
part of your wonderful school.
Weyla Chipps-Roy
Aboriginal Education Support
Worker SD62
busy with Celebrating Student Suc- reporting is happening. More
cess.
walks to surrounding neighborhoods/forest. Look for your child’s
presentation piece coming home
soon. As well, Div 3&4 are continuing to work with role model Rick
Peter, preparing for the Spring
Concert on May 28th to
sing SPÁ,EŦ ~ BEAR song. Sev-
JOHN MUIR
So many exciting days here at John
Muir; the students and staff worked
hard on all the very important subjects: math, social studies, language arts, gym, music, science,
and visual arts. Added to this have
been:
•• JANUARY ••
For Div1,2,3&4 created ‘My 4
Season Book’ with role model
Darrell Charles. For Div 6,7&8
learned about ‘ḰO, ~ WATER’
with role models Buffy Charles,
Darrell Charles and myself. And,
Div 3 looked at ‘Seasons &
Seafoods” with role model Buffy
Charles.
•• FEBRUARY ••
Div 2 looked at ‘Seafoods’ with
role model Buffy Charles. Div
7&8 had two role models in to help
with First Nations Studies. Tiffany
Joseph brought forward
“Community & Current Issues”,
and Sharon Cooper was a wealth of
information about ‘Treaty &
Current Issues’. Div 5&3 were
studying ‘Community helpers’ with
role model Tiffany Joseph. The
whole school enjoyed storyteller
role model Andre Spencer; and
bannock with role models
Caroline Frank and Cassandra
Scow. This month was also very
•• MARCH ••
Div 3,6,7&8 hosted role model
Charlotte Reading who talked
about “Aboriginal Health/Healthy
Communities”. As well, the whole
school was busting to have BANNOCK! Our role models Caroline
Frank and Cassandra Scow came
back during lunchtimes to help 30
+ students make bannock. 320
pieces were sold! $80 was raised
for art supplies! And many tummies were very happy J.
•• APRIL ••
The whole school celebrated
PEXSISEṈ ~ The Moon of Opening Hands/The Blossoming Out
Moon. We had walks outside and
in the surrounding neighborhoods/
forest. Role model Earl Claxton
joined Div 7&4 for a walk, and
shared many things. The whole
school joined role model Rick
Peter in singing with Ms. Parliament’s classes; and again Rick
joined us at lunchtime to sing with
many students.
•• MAY ••
Exciting follow up for Div 6,7&8;
plant identification/ naming/
eral older students from Div 7&8
will be joining the younger students on stage with hand drums.
Many Hy’j’ka’s to those helpers!
•• JUNE ••
We have an exciting event planned,
ḰEL,ḰEL ~ Sunny (weather) as we
move toward the change of season
~ ‘summer’. The grades 4&5 will
be away at camp and the rest of us
will have a fun day of activities
June 16th. We have invited role
models Caroline Frank/Cassandra
Scow (bannock), Christine George/
Denise George (plants/teas), Andre
Spencer (storytelling), Darrell
Charles (art), Rick Peter (singing)
and myself with an ‘archeology
site’. And hands raised up, hy’j’ka,
to the PAC for the volunteers to
help make this event a success.
••FIRST NATIONS ART
APPRECIATION ••
Elementary School News
JOHN MUIR (cont’d)
2 level, in which students explore
Many thanks to all the students and stories from Aboriginal cultures
teachers for having this presenta- across Canada. The program also
tion in your rooms. A big hy’j’ka incorporates British Columbia’s
to Talia and Hope for joining in
First Peoples Principles of Learning.
with many of the presentations.
We often use puppets and props to
••MANY THANKS••
illustrate story themes and new voHy’j’ka’s to all the students, staff, cabulary – and all of our lessons inPAC and parents for making this
clude oral language activities where
year an awsum year!
students practice skills such as sequencing and retelling stories with a
partner or small group. Teachers
Charlene George, AESW
and students are enjoying additional
follow-up activities that we have developed for the second term of the
program.
All elementary schools with grade 1,
2, and 1/2 classes with Aboriginal
students participate in these Aboriginal story read aloud lessons once per
week for an 11-week term. For this
session, Ms. Richardson is working
with classes at Willway, Ruth King,
Happy Valley, Wishart, Sooke, SaArt Work by John Muir students
Bulletin Board at John Muir
seenos, and John Muir, while Ms.
Denny is working with classes at
GRADE ONE & TWO
Colwood, Lakewood, Savory, and
ABORIGINAL LITERACY READCrystal View.
ALOUD PROGRAM
We are grateful for this opportunity
to work with so many enthusiastic
Ms. Richardson and Ms. Denny are teachers and students, and look forexcited to work with a second group ward to seeing everyone again next
year.
of schools, starting in March, for
our Aboriginal Literacy Read Aloud
Program with grade 1 and 2 classes. ELEMENTARY ENGLISH SKILLS
Our program includes a wide varie- DEVELOPMENT
ty of story titles reflecting different It is incredible to believe that anothAboriginal cultures in Canada. The er school year is nearing the end. As
cultural groups represented in our Elementary English Skills Development teachers and support workers,
lessons include: Coast Salish and
we have had a busy term supporting
Northwest Coast Nations, Inuit,
Plains Cree, Métis, Eastern Wood- our grade 1 to 6 students. In fact, as
of October, 2014, 213 students were
lands and Six Nations. The ReadAloud Program was designed to fit receiving elementary ESD support in
with new curriculum at the grade 1- SD62.
Page 15
As you may know, ESD support
varies depending on the student, classroom teacher, and
school. We believe in inclusiveness and work to assist our students to develop the academic
skills required to be successful.
In most cases, we work with
students in literacy-related subjects such as reading and writing; however we understand
that there are also wonderful
opportunities for developing
literacy skills in the areas of
math, science, and socials so we
have supported some of our
students during those blocks
too.
The ESD teacher role is highly
satisfying as it allows us to coteach within the mainstream
classroom, collaborate and consult with many talented classroom teachers, focus on direct
skill-building instruction, and
share curriculum materials.
Now that it is May, we will be
discussing ESD support for the
2015/16 school year with classroom teachers. If the classroom teacher believes that a
student would benefit from additional academic support, we
will work with that student to
complete a short assessment. A
letter will go home to parents/
caregivers in May explaining
the process in more detail. We
will begin assessments in June
and continue into September
of 2015.
Spring 2014—2015
Elementary School News
GRADE ONE & TWO
ABORIGINAL LITERACY
READ-ALOUD
PROGRAM (cont’d)
not achieving grade level expectations in
reading, writing, listening, speaking, or
vocabulary knowledge. Once ESD
teachers have the student referrals, a
letter is sent home informing parents of
an upcoming assessment. In June, ESD
teachers assess referred students and
confirm if indeed they are eligible for
the additional support. In September,
ESD teachers create the Annual Instructional Plan and develop a schedule that
will best work with the ESD student’s
school, classroom teacher, and ESD
teacher. Students’ AIP goals are based
on Language Arts IRPs and are created
using each individual’s annual ESD
assessment. ESD services commence in
October.
With that, we would like to
acknowledge all of our ESD
students for their hard work
throughout the year and
wish our grade 5 and 6 ESD
students the best of luck as
they move onto middle
school next year.
Many thanks to all of the
teachers, support staff, and
administrators we have
worked with throughout the Why does the ESD program in SD62
focus on Oral Language Strategies?
year.
Indigenous people from around the
Sincerely,
Marlys Denny,
Huw Griffiths, Kathleen
Marshall, & Chelsea
Richardson
Sharon Bond, Weyla ChippsRoy, Charlene George, Sam
Peekeekoot, &
Sherry Thomas – ESD
Support Workers
EXTRA SUPPORT FOR
ENGLISH ACROSS THE
CURRICULUM
What is the process for identifying ESD students and providing
them with
support?
In May, classroom teachers receive
a referral letter listing the Aboriginal students in their classroom.
They are asked to identify whether
the listed students are achieving or
Page 16
world, such as Aboriginal populations
of British Columbia, have and continue
to realize their history through oral tradition. Oral language continues to be
an effective method for the passage of
knowledge and information from one
generation to the next.
Current research suggests that oral language is foundational to all literacy
skills. In fact, the foundational nature
of oral language is explicitly recognized
in the Ministry of Education’s English
Language Arts curriculum document
which states, “oral language is the foundation of literacy learning and talk is
the bridge that helps students make
connections between what they know
and what they are coming to
know” (British Columbia Ministry of
Education, 2006, p. 4).
Who provides the elementary ESD
support in SD62?
Four ESD teachers: Huw Griffiths,
Marlys Denny, Kathleen Marshall, and
Chelsea Richardson
Five ESD support workers: Sam
Peekeekoot, Sharon Bond, Charlene
George, Weyla Chipps-Roy, and Sherry
Thomas.
How is ESD support documented and
tracked in SD62?
ESD support is documented and
tracked using Fluid Survey, an online
tool that allows ESD teachers and support workers to document attendance,
service time, type of support provided,
and oral language strategies used. The
secure software allows the Aboriginal
Department to collect and analyze information online, as well as will provide
the Ministry of Education with imperative information in an audit situation.
How do ESD Teachers report progress
to parents?
Student progress will be shared during
regular reporting periods. A one page
ESD Report will be included with the
regular classroom report card.
The ESD Teacher or ESD Support
Worker will communicate with the
classroom teacher prior to each reporting period about the student’s progress
in relation to their AIP Language Goals,
which were created out of the ESD assessment and align with BC’s IRPs for
English Language Arts.
How many students are currently
receiving elementary ESD support in
SD62?
As of October, 2014, 213 students are
receiving elementary ESD support in
SD62.
Savory D B Grade 1
Elementary School News
were outside exploring nature, focusing on plant changes, bud
Iy Scayel (Good Day) as we make growth and bird watching. An exour way into the PEXSISEN
pert leader Erik Pikkila drove from
(Opening Hands, Blossoming Out) Ladysmith to teach all the classes,
moon and big house activities
all leading up to Earth Day. Februcome to a close, and the activities ary 25th was “Pink Day” celebratin classes are becoming busier as ing Anti-Bullying. There was a
we all make our way to summer
flash mob, student performances,
break.
choir singing and a slide show.
Savory PAC has sponsored many Way to show your spirit Savory!
large school events this year. Pan- April the entire school took part in
cake breakfasts, several pizza days “Jump Rope for the Heart”. So
and hot lunch days, school dances fantastic to see everyone particiand much more. Savory has some pate, even some of the teachers
amazing PAC leaders to help
were out there showing off their
guide the school through many
skill. Boot camps began where stuspecial events. Great job PAC!
dents were introduced to an early
SAVORY ELEMENTARY
Savory’s environmentally friendly
work has definitely set precedence
for other schools to follow. They
have a composting and recycling
program that the senior classes are
responsible for. It’s so fantastic to
see the kids engaged in helping to
take care of their environment.
Great work Savory!
morning regiment of exercise to
help them become more focused
and ready to learn. It helps to improve moods, lowers aggression
and increases attention.
Mr. Reeve and Mr. Showers have
had their classes collectively out
on hikes and nature walks learning
about plants and the ways of the
In January students began practic- land. All come back smiling after
ing to audition for “Savory’s Got a day of exercise and fresh air.
Talent” show casing: dancing,
On my new day with Savory is
singing, instruments, karate, magic “Fun Friday” and what a GREAT
show and much more. The show
way to end the week. The senior
took place in February. Great work classes participate in things that
and amazing talents Savory stuthey find fun, whether it be the
dents!
computer lab or a fun sport out in
During February; some lucky students joined singer Norman Foote
on at MacPherson Theatre. I’m
positive they had a fantastic time
and made some amazing memories. Students from many classes
Page 17
kids, and so artistic!
The grade 6 teacher Mr. Alex
Reeve will be retiring this year. I
know he will be missed, many students will be sad that they didn’t
get him as a teacher. Some adult
students I’ve had the privilege of
working with remember Alex with
great fondness; still very thankful
for the time and attention given.
Good luck and thanks for the
memories Mr. Reeve!
We’ve had a very successful Celebrating Student Success! It was a
fantastic turn out. The SD62 AbEd
department had an amazing display of student work set up for students and families to view. There
were some very good performances of all kinds done by the students, so much fun, and very entertaining. Thank you to the entire
team that put it together, everyone
did a great job!
As we prepare for the summer
break, I hope you will all take
some quality time to spend with
your families and friends. Enjoy
your time off; I look forward to
seeing everyone’s smiling faces
next year.
That’s all I have for now. I’m
looking forward to all the exciting
things we are going to do between
now and summer break. Hych’ka
the field or gym. I’ve been includ- for reading. Until next time.
ing Culture Club into this activity
Sherri Rose – AESW
as a choice for the kids that find
art and culture fun. I have a few
regulars that like to come in and
be creative! What a great bunch of
Spring 2014—2015
Elementary School News
help! We were going to make a
time capsule for the students, all
the English students K-8 to leave
a piece of something behind. A
reminder of all of us working
and growing together as a community. Before long we had the
woodshop teacher Mr. Smyth,
Mrs.Burrows, myself and an
artist, Weyla Chipps-Roy from
Scia’new First Nation, along
with the grade 7&8 students
TP ‘K’ - John Stubbs
leading the way. We decided to
Looking back at the school make a wooden box with an Abyear, I am truly reminded of original art piece decorating it.
what great staff and students We all have had an amazing
time with this project and are
we have at John Stubbs
School and I am honored to presenting it to the school at the
end of May. Helping do this will
be part of the team. The
be community Elders, Chief
Sooke School District has
Russ Chipps, Scia’new Nation
some big changes coming
Drum group, and many others.
up for September, but the
one that hits close to home What an amazing experience for
is Ecole John Stubbs Memo- all.
rial becoming strictly French Throughout the school year we
Immersion School. While
have had many Community role
we all must remember that models come in to the school to
change can be an amazing
help us with the teaching of Abthing we would like to leave original Ways of Knowing and a
behind a legacy of what
Sense of belonging. I would like
once was. It is with this in
to take a minute to acknowledge
mind an idea was formed.
all these people. Andre Spencer,
As most ideas it started out Charlene George, Jeff Welch,
small, but has blossomed
Shirley Alphonse, Earl Claxton
into something more. A
Jr., John Bradley Williams,
teacher approached me with Lindsay Delaronde, Weyla
an idea of the grade 7& 8
Chipps-Roy, Fern & Mark PerEnglish students in the
kins, Bertha Landre, Chief Russ
school embarking on a pro- Chipps, Isabelle Charles, Sciject that would be a remind- a’new Drum Group and Hank
er of their time together. As Chipps. Many Hych’ka’s for
this idea grew we needed
coming into the classrooms and
JOHN STUBBS ELEMENTARY
and MIDDLE
Page 18
sharing your knowledge with
everyone. Together we have had
more than 85 in classroom
presentations. John Stubbs hosted our annual event Celebration
of Aboriginal Students Success
led by the Me to We students &
leaders, and the ABED staff, it
was a huge success. All the students art work was displayed in
the gym and some of the students did performances. A grade
1 student from John Stubbs was
even brave enough to sit on
stage and read ‘Froggy gets
Dressed,’ he did an amazing job!
He read with such expression
that everyone was laughing…he
thought that was wonderful! I
would like to wish the best of
luck to all the English students
as they transition to their new
school, the grade 5’s that are entering middle school and also to
the grade 8 students moving to
high school. I would also like to
wish all the staff and students
best wishes for a new beginning
in September and have an amazing summer, you have all earned
it!
Rosalind Wilkinson-AESW
SASEENOS ELEMENTARY
Iy Scayel (Good Day) as we
make our way into the
PEXSISEN (Opening Hands,
Blossoming Out) moon and big
house activities come to a close,
and the activities in classes are
becoming busier as we all make
our way to summer break.
Elementary School News
your families and friends. Enjoy
your time off; I look forward to
I joined Saseenos in Early April
seeing everyone’s smiling faces
just at the tail end of literacy week. next year.
So many strong readers! The book That’s all I have for now. I’m
fair continues to bring in strong
looking forward to all the exciting
sales with many strong readers.
things we are going to do between
With Earth day on April 22nd,
now and summer break. Hych’ka
there was lots of great “Earth” art for reading. Until next time.
on the wall, some very talented
students.
Sherri Rose, AESW
Saseenos PAC has sponsored
many large school events this year. LAKEWOOD ELEMENTARY
School dances, fun days, coffee
It’s so nice to work with so many
for parents in the morning, spring familiar people at Lakewood
carnival and much more. Saseenos Elem. I help students with their
has some amazing PAC leaders to academics when needed. I also
help guide the school through
instruct Aboriginal Art/ culture to
many special events. Great job
many classrooms. I enjoy working
PAC!
with so many students.
Auditions began in early May for a During “Literacy Week “ the
talent show at the End of May.
school did a “Poetry Day” which
Singing, sports, magicians; oh my! involved some students bringing in
The grade 5’s did their transition their favorite poem and some
to Journey Middle school in May wrote a poem. They read this to
as well. After talking to many of
someone they have not read to earthem, they are both excited and
lier in the day. They did reading in
nervous to start their new
the hall. Poem in their pockets,
“Journey”. (Excited mostly for the classrooms decorated their doors
vending machines.)
to look like a book cover. As well,
We’ve had a very successful Cele- a Fairy Tale Princess came to read
brating Student Success! It was a to classes. Students really enjoyed
fantastic turn out. The SD62 AbEd this a lot!!
department had an amazing display of student work set up for stu- Marlys Denny, our Aboriginal
dents and families to view. There Literacy teacher, is reading Abowere some very good performanc- riginal stories about Aboriginal
people across Canada. Students
es of all kinds done by the stuand teachers are enjoying learning
dents, so much fun, and very entertaining. Thank you to the entire about the different Aboriginal
team that put it together, everyone cultures.
did a great job!
Aboriginal Role Model Earl ClaxAs we prepare for the summer
ton is coming to Mrs. Callbeck’s
break, I hope you will all take
class and students are looking forsome quality time to spend with
ward to this.
SASEENOS ELEMENTARY (cont’d)
Page 19
During “Earth Week” students
tried to bring a little less lunch and
dined in the dark, as the classrooms turned their lights off.
Classes also went out into the
community to pick up litter. A big
poster is outside the office for students to put down what they could
do to help the environment, (it is
like a Graffiti wall). Students
brought in recycled material to
make art from. What fun!!
April 4, 2015 marked over 10
years for Collision Music Ed
of Canada putting on “Music
Monday”. This involves many
schools with grades 3-6 students
across Canada. Students sing the
song, “You Are The One”. They
celebrate the importance music
can be for our young students.
They are estimating 5.6 million
students to be singing at the same
time. Wow!!!
The school is involved in a Clay
Art Project to do with the Code of
Conduct. Students get to design
their own clay tile to be made into
a mural that will go outside the
office.
Sharlene Chaves, AESW
Brian, Gr. 1
Spring 2014—2015
Elementary School News
HANS HELGESEN
Hello, my name is Sherry
Thomas; I am the Aboriginal Education Support
worker at Hans Helgesen.
I also do one day of English
Skills Development support
worker. It has been a great
honor to be here at Hans
Helgesen School. I have
been here since December
2014, filling in for Kenneth
Kissinger. I really enjoy
being part of this school,
having this opportunity to be
here is a great feeling. Also
as a community member and
part of the children’s learning is an honour for me.
Hych’ka for allowing me to
be part of their learning experiences because I say we
learn something new every
day.
I have had the opportunity to
bring in two role models into the school since being
here, which are Earl Claxton
Jr and John Williams.
These role models have lead
story telling for literacy
week, nature walks, and
talked about the plants in the
forest that is used throughout the Aboriginal culture. I
am so excited for the
Aboriginal Day celebration
that is coming up for us
here; we will celebrate on
June 17th, 2015.
I would also like to say that
we are so fortunate to have
Elder Lavina Charles come
Page 20
to classes. The children call her
Grandma Charles, because she
has grandchildren in the school
and it is great to see the connection she has made with all of the
children. They welcome her
each time she walks into the
door. To see the knowledge
of the Hul’qumi’num Language be taught here has
Longhouse at Scia’new Nation
brought back some words
that I never knew I still carried deep inside me. Like I said development.
we learn something new every
T’Sou-ke and Beecher Bay Naday. Hych’ka for bringing our
tions combined for dancing and
culture back to our children.
singing.
Plans are in place for a Solstice
Ms. Holtan’s class was lucky to
Celebration on June 17th when
have Ms. Lisa Volk as a guest
our classes will taste bannock
reader for our Literacy week in
dogs, traditional tea and hear
March! We also had John Wilsome amazing drumming
liams and Earl Claxton Jr.
groups. We are fortunate to
shared stories in the oral tradihave Sharon Cooper help make
bannock that day. Students will tion that week.
be able to take a recipe home to Our school was also fortunate to
have Chelsea Richardson, from
share with their families too!
our SD62 Board Office working
We also have Aboriginal Role
on literacy with our grade one
Models John Williams and Earl
and two students using the AboClaxton Jr. coming to continue
riginal stories and books. We
their work with us and hopefully
also did button blankets together
share a story that day!
as a class and we hung them up
Our intermediate classes (Mrs.
on the bulletin board by the ofTurnbull and Ms. Woods) were fice, which were beautifully creinvited to visit the Beecher Bay ated by each student. It was an
longhouse on April 21st. Stuamazing experience to do this
dents sampled traditional foods together and to have them dis(including fish and bannock) and played for all to see. Now they
had lunch provided which inhave been placed into their art
cluded fruit and a juice box.
book.
They watched the Beecher Bay
Drum Group perform with singing and drumming; and they had
a walk through Spirit Bay
Elementary School News
enough, he released them into the
Goldstream River. Way to go,
As part of the K/1 class’s outdoor Mr.Walther, for doing this. Our
learning, John Williams and Earl fish are such an important part of
Claxton Jr. have shared their tradi- our Aboriginal culture. Thank you
tional knowledge of plants in our for adding them to the river.
environment on the daily walks to
our small forested area. The stu- Sherry Thomas, AESW
dents are learning about how
March. I am here for one morning
plants can be used and how they
a week (Fridays) and have enjoyed
were used generations ago.
getting to know all of you.
Many awsum things are happening
We are very grateful to our volunfor Saseenos this Spring/Summer.
teers and Elders!
The new mural for Saseenos has
On June 5th, 2015 Mrs. Wood’s
begun with T’Sou-ke artist
class will be having Earl Claxton
Darlene George. Rick Peter (&
Jr and John Williams into her class
group) are invited to join in fun
to have a teaching of the cedar
day celebrations June 24th. Earl
bracelets. This will be exciting to
Gr. 4 Coho Salmon Spawning Project
Claxton will be going to a walk
see them learn about the process
with students. I will be going on a
of getting the cedar from the tree
My
name
is
Dennis
Warbrick
and
and being able to create a beautiful
walk with students and talking
I am the Aboriginal Education
bracelet from the forest.
about animals.
support worker here at Hans
THE GATHERING has been takI haven’t had the opportunity to
Helgesen
Elementary
School
on
ing place with so many excited
have any role models in
Fridays.
I
originate
from
the
interistudents! We just completed
Mr. Walther’s class, with the one
exception of “Literacy Week”
or and am of Shuswap ancestry. I Mother’s Day presents, and some
with John and Earl to come into
would like to thank the staff here time with language.
the class and tell a story to the
for their warm welcome and the
class. We enjoyed the story of
Charlene George, A.E.S.W.
students for their acceptance of
“How Eagle Became White on His
me. I look forward to working
Head”. What amazing stories to
with the students and teachers for
hear. We also enjoyed, “How
the rest of this school year. Thank
Robin is Red on His Chest. Ask
your child if they remember the
you.
story to tell you if you have a child
Dennis Warbrick, AESW
in his class.
HANS HELGESEN (cont’d)
I was able to catch the last day of
the fish tank they had in the class,
I thought this was amazing for
Mr.Walther to do with the class.
He started off with 200 eggs of
Coho, out of the 200 he ended up
with 199. After they were grown
Page 21
••SASEENOS SCHOOL••
ÍY SC̸ÁĆEL ~ truly a beautiful
day! Greetings to all ~ and a big
hy’j’ka/raised hands to students/
staff/parents at Saseenos School
for welcoming me at the end of
Saseenos Elementary
Spring 2014—2015
Elementary and Middle School News
role models scheduled into our
classes to provide Aboriginal,
Métis, local First Nation language and arts to individual
classrooms. We had full and
I have had a very nice year busy schedules at Spencer
with three different schools Middle School. I would like to
for this term 2014/15. I re- thank my Spencer family for beturned back to work in No- ing so welcoming towards me
vember of 2014 and was
during my time at Spencer, I
placed at Saseenos Elemen- would especially like to thank
tary School and back at
Jon for being so supportive,
Spencer Middle School.
helpful and giving me opportuThen in April I was transnities to spread my own wings
ferred to Westshore Centre and bring my Aboriginal
for Learning and Training.
knowledge to the classrooms,
and thank the teachers for
I thoroughly enjoy my posi- requesting and welcoming me
tion as an Aboriginal Educa- into their individual classrooms.
tion Support worker. I had 7
students at Saseenos and
I was transferred to Westshore
enjoyed providing Aborigi- Centre for Learning and Trainnal support to every one of ing in early April. We provide
them. I enjoyed my time in services to youth and adult stuMrs. Georges’ class, I loved dents. This is my first experiher schedule and thought it ence in working in this type of
amazing how she scheduled school. I work very closely with
her class into a perfect puz- Mrs. Loni Skelton and take dizle that completely benefit- rection in providing support to
ted her students. I would
the students. I have approxilike to thank Mrs. George
mately 23 students to provide
and Mrs. McArthur for wel- Aboriginal education and Engcoming and accepting me
lish skills development support
into the school and classto. I have had the privilege to
room.
see exceptional role models and
participate in field trips that are
I also returned back to
directed towards Aboriginal and
Spencer Middle School and Métis ways of living. Thank you
was so happy to see my stu- for taking the time to come to
dents from last year.
our schools here at School District 62 and sharing your
Mr. Jon Carr and I had 68
knowledge in so many different
students split between us to Aboriginal ways of living, i.e:
provide academic support
storytelling, local First Nation
to. There were also many
SASEENOS, SPENCER
MIDDLE SCHOOL AND
WESTSHORE CENTRE FOR
LEARNING AND TRAINING
Page 22
HEL KE MI NEM language,
Science, Math and Arts.
I have enjoyed my time at all
three schools and look forward
to where I may end up next September.
I wish all school teachers,
students, staff, our Aboriginal
Principal and Secretary,
AESW’s and ESD workers a
safe and restful summer break.
Take care!
Nadine Charles
Aboriginal Education Support
Worker
M-R. M, Gr. 11—WS Colwood
Elementary and Middle School News
SAVORY ELEMENTARY AND
JOURNEY MIDDLE
rewarding!
I cannot say enough amazing
things about both schools I work
I cannot believe the year is almost
with. We have made great strides
over! What an exciting year, full
in incorporating Aboriginal Conof learning and discovering new
tent into the classrooms as a way
things! I have really enjoyed
to enhance and enrich the curricuworking in my English Skills Delum. I wish everyone a happy and
velopment role at both Journey
healthy summer and look forward
Middle School and Savory Eleto another year of learning ahead!
mentary. I enjoy working with
such a wide range of students from Kathleen Marshall
ESD Teacher Savory Elementary/
kindergarten to grade eight; I’m
always learning something new!
Journey Middle School Teacher
The students at both Journey and
Savory have been working hard to
develop their language skills. We
have been working on a variety of
skills for increasing our volume
when speaking to editing paragraphs in the middle school. The
students have been putting lots of
effort into their projects and assignments!
At Savory, I have been working
with students on vocabulary development, using a strategy called
Picture Word Identification Model. The students and I take turns
looking at a scenic picture and
picking out words we know. We
then try to add adjective and descriptive language to our previously found words. The students have
really excelled at this activity, and
had a little fun while doing it! I
have also been working with students on a variety of projects. One
of the highlights for me has been
learning about Captain Cook and
the Bermuda Triangle. Learning
alongside students is always
Page 23
Savory GP Grade 4
JOURNEY MIDDLE
Wow! We cannot believe the year
is coming to an end. As they say,
time flies when you’re having fun!
Journey Middle School has had a
year packed full of culture and
learning. Since the last update in
the newsletter, we have packed in
many exciting activities both in
community and here at Journey
Middle School.
In February, we took six students
to Blue Heron House for the
MetoWe Sacred Circle. During
our time there the students partici-
pated in team building activities
and made lasting friendships with
the other students from John
Stubbs, Dunsmuir and Spencer
Middle Schools. At this two day
educational experience, students
helped the Aboriginal Education
Staff plan our Celebrating Student
Success night. Journey was responsible for the Elders at the
event. During MetoWe they practiced serving the Elders from the
community in preparation for the
Celebrating Student Success evening. Dave Betts joined the students
in reciting a poem written by
Nadine Charles, for the Elders.
In March we welcomed the
Tzinquaw Dancers to Journey for
a school wide assembly. This assembly opened with Elder Shirley
Alphonse, Elder Bill Jones, and
Chief Russ Chipps welcoming students to the traditional territory of
T’Sou-ke Nation. During this performance students got to watch
traditional dancing and drumming.
We were thrilled to be joined by
Scia’new Nation Chief and Council members who also enjoyed the
performance with students.
Also in March, we invited Rick
Peter to come teach two grade seven classes how to play a traditional
bone game also known as La’hal.
The students had made their own
class sets of sticks to participate in
this activity. Rick Peter explained
not only the rules of the game, but
also how and where the game
would traditionally be played.
Spring 2014—2015
Middle School News
that our school was built around.
Students learned traditional Coast
This learning was in prepara- Salish uses for not only the leaves,
but moss and lichen that grow on
tion for our community tea,
th
it. The walk continued with Earl
held on April 8 2015. The
tea was a success! We got to and John showing students the nameet parents and grandparents tive travelling blackberry plant as
of the students while the stu- well as the Indian plum tree, also
found on school property. Students were put in a teaching
dents learned about traditional harrole, teaching their families
how to play La’hal. We were vesting as well as medicinal uses
of these plants.
joined at this event by community Elders, as well as the
Near the end of April, we invited
Board of Trustee Members.
Chief Russ Chipps welcomed all our grade 6 students to the
everyone to this exciting event Scia’new Nation Longhouse. Our
school was joined by classes from
and then the games began!
Hans Helgesen Elementary,
Happy Valley Elementary,
We like to keep ourselves
Dunsmuir Middle and Port Renbusy at Journey! The very
frew Elementary. This was a full
same day as the Community
day of experiential learning at the
Tea, we also invited Elder
Shirley Alphonse, Rick Peter, longhouse. We were treated to a
joint performance by the Scia’new
Bernice M, and Chief Russ
Nation Drum Group and T’Sou-ke
Chipps to help one of our
Nation Dancers. The students also
grade 6 classes release their
listened to stories, enjoyed banCoho salmon fry into
nock dogs and salmon, and lisDaMamiel Creek. Students
walked down to the creek with tened to the teachings of the longtheir fry and blessed the water house.
for the salmon release. As
that was happening, Rick Pe- In May, two grade 8 classes went
ter sang and drummed a salm- to T’Sou-ke Nation to participate
on song wishing our fry good in the Solar Tours. These classes
learned about renewable energy
luck!
and how to conserve energy back
at school. In May, we also welIn April, we invited John
comed Linda Ermineskin to our
Bradley Williams and Earl
school. She came to present her
Claxton Jr. to come do a nature walk and talk with many experiences in a Residential
of our students. John and Earl School to grade 8 students. She
also worked with two grade 6 clasbegan by talking to students
about the Big Leaf Maple tree ses, showing them traditional uses
JOURNEY MIDDLE (cont’d)
Page 24
of cedar and how to weave cedar
roses – just in time for mother’s
day! The students enjoyed this
hands on activity. Linda also
taught a class how to play La’hal
as an extension of our schools previous La’hal learning.
At the end of May we are looking
forward to having a Pit Cook for
grade 7 students at Journey. At
this event, we will welcome representative from all three of our local nations, Scia’new, T’Sou-ke
and Pacheedaht Nation. The students will learn about a traditional
pit cook and get to enjoy the feast!
In June, we say goodbye to our
grade 8 students and wish them a
happy and successful grade 9 year!
We will also be having an end of
the year barbeque for all students
to celebrate all the success they
have had this year.
We are both thrilled to have been
working at Journey this year! We
wish everyone a safe and happy
summer and look forward to continuing our learning in September!
Kathleen Marshall
Aboriginal Education/ESD
Teacher
Laurie Gibson
AESW
Middle School News
DUNSMUIR MIDDLE
The year at Dunsmuir Middle
School has been busy and productive with many wonderful
opportunities, events, and teachings for our students. With over
fifty Role Models visiting our
classrooms in nearly every subject area, a rich cultural layer has
been added to the middle school
curriculum.
Our series of monthly luncheons, which focus on the Seven
Sacred Teachings, have continued for grade 7 classes that are
preparing themselves to become
the leaders of our school next
year. Charlene George has led
these luncheons with stories
about the animals that embody
each of the lessons and characteristics of the teachings. Our
students are excited for a chance
to share food, listen to the lessons, and hold the artifacts Charlene brings.
Learning about Métis culture
and traditional jigging and spoon
playing has been very popular
here at Dunsmuir. Bertha Landrie and her husband, Joe, taught
numerous French and dance
classes about the history of the
Métis people, showcasing beaded artifacts, providing dancing
and spoon demonstrations, and
allowing students the opportunity to join in on the dancing and
music playing.
Taking on a leadership role at
Dunsmuir, eight of our grade 7
students participated in a 3-day
Sacred Circle, Me to We Leadership Retreat at the beautiful
Blue Heron House at Royal
Roads University. They played
games that emphasized team
work, worked on building their
self-confidence, and learned
about Aboriginal culture. These
amazing students, alongside students from the other middle
schools in School District 62,
Earl Claxton Jr. and John Brad- came together in a culminating
ley Williams have been to Dun- project where they helped organize the Celebrating Student Sucsmuir on numerous occasions,
cess evening, with art work, persharing stories with English
classes, taking science classes on formances, and many helping
nature walks to teach about local hands.
plants and animals, and have
even presented a wood-bending For Dunsmuir’s Arts and Culture night, we had elder Shirley
workshop for our woodshop
Alphonse open and bless the
class. Murray Campbell also
brought his art and expertise into evening with her wise and welcoming words, and were happy
our woodworking classes with
to have Hank Chipps help with
demonstrations and lessons
about wood carving techniques. the opening remarks. Caroline
Frank visited the school earlier
in the day to teach one of our
foods classes how to make tradiPage 25
tional bannock, which our Me to
We leadership students then
served at the evening event,
alongside homemade jams and
jellies. We also had Weyla
Chipps-Roy in the art room with
a hands-on art station, teaching
guests about button blankets and
allowing everyone the opportunity to make a button blanket
bookmark. The event was a
wonderful success, thanks to
many students and teachers
coming together.
Two of our classes had the
honour of being invited out to
the Beecher Bay Longhouse,
along with students from nearby
schools. They spent the morning learning about the Beecher
Bay First Nation and the forward
thinking plans that are taking
place there. This was followed
by an afternoon spent in the
longhouse with fires roaring,
traditional dancing and performances from the youth drum
group, a sharing of stories and
teachings, and an amazing feast
prepared for the hundreds of students that attended. We were
humbled and thankful for such a
welcoming experience.
As our year comes to a quick
close, we want to thank our
teachers here at Dunsmuir Middle School for bringing these
culturally rich opportunities into
their classrooms and beyond,
and to thank all our amazing
Role Models for sharing their
knowledge and culture with us.
Spring 2014—2015
Middle Schools
students. It was a privilege to
work with you Nadine, and
watch you grow into your role.
Westshore is very lucky to have
Moreover, our hard working such a warm soul working with
and talented students dethem. Best of luck to you. We
serve warm praise for chal- welcome Sherri Rose as our new
lenging themselves to find
Support Worker. She comes
success on a daily basis.
from Westshore and brings a
Their kindness and respect wonderful energy and enthusishines through with every
asm to her role.
Role Model visit, cultural
event, and welcomed emAs the Aboriginal Literacy
brace of learning opportuni- teacher, I am collaborating on
ties.
some exciting literacy projects.
DUNSMUIR MIDDLE
SCHOOL (cont’d)
We wish all our families a
happy end to the school
year, and a sun-filled
summer with their loved
ones.
Thank-you
Hych’ka
Kleco Kelco
Gilakas’la
Marsee
Ana Galac –Aboriginal Education
and ESD Teacher
Weyla Chipps-Roy –Aboriginal
Education Support Worker
SPENCER MIDDLE SCHOOL
Happy CENKI,LES (Rebirth
of Earth – Spring Season)
from the Saanich Year. It
has been a great year at
Spencer Middle School. We
give great thanks to Nadine
Charles who was our beloved Support Worker until
mid-April. She will be
deeply missed by staff and
Page 26
In Mr. Smith’s English 9 class, I
am co-teaching the novel study
for A True Diary of a Part-Time
Indian. So far the students love
the novel and enjoy listening to
Sherman Alexie read his own
story from the audiobook. We
are also implementing many
English Skills Development
(ESD) strategies in this unit, so
students from a wide-range of
reading levels can enjoy the novel. In Ms. Nixon’s Humanities 8
class, we have collaborated on a
cross-curricular inquiry unit
called “Our Voices, Our
Perspectives” which aims to
challenge students to think deeply about identity and their place
in the world. It draws on the
new curriculum competencies;
students are using images, written and oral language, and digital media to holistically tell stories of themselves, Elders
(including Shirley Alphonse),
and community members. This
unit brings alive many themes
from the First Peoples Principles
of Learning. In June, several
classes will be visiting T’Sou-ke
Nation for the Solar Tours.
Our Aboriginal Role-Model program is very strong at the moment, with many community
members sharing their
knowledge in the classrooms to
all students. We have Jessica
Bekker delivering presentations
to Math classes on tipi design,
buffalo catching, and environmental sustainability. She
weaves her own culture and stories into real-world math
problems. In Science classes,
John-Bradley Williams and
Earl Claxton, Jr. are sharing
their knowledge on indigenous
plants. Students really enjoy
getting outside and experiencing
how to identify local plants and
their traditional usage. JB and
Earl also presented to Photojournalism classes doing a plant photography workshop. In
Mr. Pasay’s Wood Tech classes,
they talked about traditional
wood bending (Bentwood Boxes), carving, and tools; including
a cool demo on boiling water
using hot volcanic rock. In
French and Dance classes,
Bertha Landrie presents on Métis culture, connections
between the French and
Mischief language, spoon drumming, and the Red River jig
where students get up and dance.
SPENCER MIDDLE SCHOOL (cont’d)
Students and staff love the high
energy and enthusiasm Bertha
brings to the classroom. In Ms.
Nixon’s Global Action class,
Dr. Charlotte Loppie presents on
Indigenous Health in Canada,
prompting some very interesting
discussion with students about
human rights and equality.
Many transitions are coming up at
the Middle Schools this year. The
Grade 8’s and 9’s both leave to
secondary school and we will have
new Grade 6’s and 7’s next year.
To help transition, Camosun and
UVIC LE NONET present on postsecondary options to get students
thinking early about their future. It
has been a great year at Spencer
Middle School, and we look forward to many of the opportunities
the new school year brings
forward.
All my relations, Mr. Jon Carr,
Aboriginal Teacher
EDWARD MILNES COMMUNITY
SCHOOL
Here we are already into the
Spring season, time surely has
flown by! We have had a lot going
on here at Edward Milne since our
last newsletter. I have continued to
provide support to the students in
the first semester and now into the
second. I now go into Math ten,
First Peoples ten, eleven and
twelve, Social Studies ten, Social
Studies nine, English nine, Science
ten, Science nine and Planning ten.
The school held the annual Terry
Page 27
Fox run, I’m proud to say quite a
few of our students, along with
myself took part in running the
five kilometers. Rob Nash came to
the school to talk to the senior classes about sensitive topics affecting
the youth. Rob had a major trauma
affect his life.
Nation.
There was the Aboriginal career
fair in the library, which was
opened by Shirley doing the
Territory acknowledgement and
the blessing. A few different colleges and universities came and
displayed their campuses and
Students are getting ready for their what they had to offer. The
grad. There has been a student’s
RCMP detachment also had a
versus teacher’s ice hockey game table set up. After we had snacks
at the Sooke arena.
in the First Nations room and a
couple of door prizes were given
We have gone out to Pacheedaht
(Port Renfrew) for a meet the com- out. One happy student won a
mini Ipad!
munity lunch, after lunch we
worked alongside with the elemen- Richard Van Camp, the author of
tary students potting the gardens
“The Lesser Blessed” came to
and making bird houses. We have the school to do a presentation on
had Aboriginal role models come a new movie they are working
into the First peoples English 10,
on; he welcomed all the students
11 and 12 classes.
to audition for the movie, which
is based on the novel “Monkey
Shirley Alphonse came to do a
Beach”. He also talked about his
smudging presentation with all
book, and his short stories he has
three classes; she explained what
materials are used and why they do written. He went into an English
this for their people. She gave the nine class, and then into the theaoption for all the students and the ter with three classes, then the
First Peoples English 11/12 class,
teacher as well to come forward
this particular class read the
and do a smudge on them.
novel, “The Lesser Blessed.”
Fern Perkins along with her husRichard had the whole theater
band came into all three First Peo- laughing with all his stories.
ples English classes to do a presentation on the Métis Nation, she also Steve Sxwithul’twx (Johnny)
who works with Vancouver
brought in artifacts that represent
that Métis people. The class got to Island Health Authority (in the
see the Métis flag, how the people Aboriginal Department), came to
three planning ten classes to talk
travelled by wagons, which was
about what VIHA has to offer
able to be turned into a boat, the
sash was shown in different colors, career wise in the health department.
she explained what each color
meant, along with many other
unique artifacts used by the Métis
Spring 2014—2015
Middle Schools
EMCS (cont’d)
He also touched base on the
careers he has done throughout his life, which goes to
show students there is a lot
of opportunities out there,
not just that one career.
The environmental studies
class went to the T’Sou-ke
Nation to learn about their
T’Sou-ke Solar project they
have had going on for the
last few years now. Andrew
Moore gave them a tour of
the buildings to show exactly how it works. Where the
solar panels are, what types
there are and how they vary
in size. He explained how
B.C. Hydro buys energy off
of the community instead of
the community having to
give the company money.
Angie did a power point
presentation reflecting on
the tour with the class.
Roses by Linda E—Role Model
Secondary School
News
BELMONT
Hello from Belmont Secondary!!
Hope everyone is enjoying the
sunshine lately. I know the kids
are enjoying it to the max - when
they can!
Since I wrote to you last we had
tons, I mean a tons, of role models cross the threshold here at
Belmont. We had role models
in: Dance, Science, Math, Social
Studies, Foods, Textiles, First
Peoples English, BC First NaIn the future we are hoping tions Studies, Law. We had field
trips to the T’Sou-ke Nation
to have a few more role
models come into the school Solar Power site, the Royal BC
Museum, Camosun College,
to show us their teachings
they have to share with us, I UVIC and the longhouse wood
to the Esquimalt and Songhee
must say I’m looking forward to learning even more. Nations from the Scia’new
Nation for the naming of our
Hych’ka Klecko Klecko
new theater.
(Thank you)
As we all know, Aboriginal PeoDerrick (The Aboriginal Edple have a special relationship
ucation Worker at Edward
with Mother Earth and all things
Milne Community School)
Page 28
in and on it. We honor the animals and sea creatures for giving
themselves to keep us alive. Our
department had the honor of celebrating the amazing gifts these
animals, sea creatures and
Mother Earth gift us by sharing
with the Belmont student body
and administration. We have had
salmon dip with crackers and
veggies at lunch, clam fritter
treats in foyer, fry bread in a few
classrooms and more to come
before the end of school. We
also had a tour of Indigenous
plants on the Galloping Goose
where students learned the
plants they could eat or make tea
or use as medicine. We were fortunate enough to be gifted
smoked and canned fresh salmon by Mr. McHugh, one of our
Vice Principals, and gifted some
canned fresh salmon by the
Pacheedaht First Nation in Port
Renfrew. Thank you so much
for your wonderful gifts.
Linda E., Role Model
Secondary School News
BELMONT (cont’d)
We were lucky enough to have a
terrific Aboriginal author, Richard
Van Camp. Richard was engaging
and mesmerizing as usual. His stories are terrific and all based on
real life. Both the students and
teachers were listening to every
word as he spoke. We had the
Métis Nation of Greater Victoria
come in and share Métis stories
and some artifacts for our students
to hear and see. In our English
First Peoples class we had a First
Nations storyteller come and tell
stories and shared how she writes
them. Students were encouraged to
write their own stories and not to
worry about what or how they
write them because everyone is
unique. Natasha and I had a few
dream catcher and seven sacred
teachings workshops that engaged
all students in those classes. They
left their class with a sense of accomplishment and with a sample
of my fry bread in their tummies.
Tommy Happynook came in to the
Law class to speak about
Indigenous Issues and First
Nations governance. Tommy is
such a calm and knowledgeable
teacher from Camosun, you can’t
help but listen and ask questions
when he is finished. We had a few
workshops in different classes on
making cedar roses and cedar rope.
We also had two of our local artists
come in to give a demonstration on
carving and another directing the
Page 29
textile on how to make a beautiful
traditional shawl for one of our
new schools. Her design will be
hung in one of our new schools.
Our Social Justice teacher was on
top of everything when racism was
a topic that had to be addressed.
We brought in an absolutely wonderful role model who addressed
this delicate issue with grace and
phenomenal knowledge which he
shared openly. He opened many
eyes with his presentation and answers to some difficult questions.
While we are on this topic we had
two other role models addressing
another delicate issue – residential
schools. They discussed the cause
and effect of these devastating
years. The experience of being a
resident in these schools, how they
are today and the journeys they
shared, were delivered with such
grace and charm that the students
left with good sense of knowledge
on what that part of the course was
all about. On a lighter note, we
brought into the First Nations room
a wonderful lady to our dance class
who taught the students how to do
the Métis Red River Jig. Wow, did
they have fun! A few even danced
the jig at our Celebration of Student Success. What an uplifting
experience! If you come into the
All Nations Room you can see a
geometrical shape made out of
pencils. It’s really cool. Natasha
made it at a workshop offered to
our students by SFU. The work-
shop is called “Mathcatchers”.
Using the Aboriginal way of
learning, the students have a
hands on opportunity to enjoy
math. Enjoy math you say?
Right! No seriously, this is a
wonderful way to learn, who
would have ever thought math
could be fun and you walk out of
this workshop with a cool looking object. Well now you know
how busy our year has been so
far. Yup busier than a long tailed
cat in a room full of rocking
chairs as you can see. Now you
can look at some of the accomplishments some of our students
have achieved. Congratulations
to Charles for placing second in
the “Challenge Competition” at
the Justice Institute of BC Emergency Services Career Day on
Friday, February 20th. The day
included many operational/
experiential hand-on scenarios in
the policing, fire and paramedic
areas. Students had the opportunity to participate in tactical
driving, target shooting, firefighting combat challenge,
downed body search and attending to a MVI. Thank you to all
the emergency services agencies
(JIBC, Victoria Police, Langford
Fire Department, RCMP,
Saanich Police, Paramedic Academies, Military 11th Field Ambulance, Conservation Services
and Saanich Fire Rescue) who
were on hand to answer quesSpring 2014—2015
Middle Schools
Secondary
Schools News
BELMONT (cont’d)
tions regarding careers.
A special thank you to Tom
Woods from JIBC for organizing the JIBC “Emergency
Services Career Day”.
Belmont students competed
for gold in the Skills Canada
Competition held at
Camosun College on Friday,
February 27th! Congratulations to Nick who with another Belmont student won a
bronze medal in these Olympic-style competitions. Nick
competed in the Welding
Competition. Skills Canada
allows students across the
nation to compete in trades
and technology events.
Eight of Belmont's physics
11 students were invited to
attend the ATLASMasterclass 2015 at UVic on
Saturday, April 18th. Riley
learned a bit about particle
physics and were able to analyze a small slice of data
(video conferencing with students from UBC and SFU).
Justin had one of the main
parts in the pajama games
theatre production with
Belmont.
Quentin is in the midst of
qualifying for the Bold Eagle
project - a rewarding, challenging, six week program
Page 30
that provides hands-on skills
and teamwork, all the while,
providing physical fitness and
encouraging cultural awareness
by combining Aboriginal culture
and teachings with military training. For more info on this terrific
program go here:
http://www.forces.gc.ca/en/jobscaf-aboriginal/bold-eagleindex.page
Nicole is applying for UVIC
summer institute after hearing
Lolita explain that they can get “a
taste” of University life by signing up.
Kennedy is on the committee of
the Belmont Grad S-Trip over
spring break next year.
Jacob created a beautiful sandblasted whale on a piece of glass
in the metal shop class and gifted
it to the All Nations room.
We would like to thank our terrific administration and teachers,
here at Belmont, for all their support and encouragement. They
are most truly are amazing.
Natasha, Erin and I (Lynn) wish
you all a great summer.
Take Care
Lynn, AESW Belmont
WESTSHORE LANGFORD
CAMPUS AND METCHOSIN
TECHNICAL CENTRE
In opening I would like to
acknowledge and thank the Coast
Salish Peoples (Sci’new Nation,
T’Sou-ke Nation, and Pacheedaht
Nation) for allowing us to work
and live on their traditional lands.
My name is Dennis and I am the
Aboriginal Education support
worker for Westshore Centre of
learning and Metchosin Tech.
Gillian LeRose is once again the
Aboriginal Education teacher and
English as a Second Dialect
(ESD) provider for the two
schools. I am at Westshore Centre of learning at the Goldstream
campus all day Monday, and on
Tuesday, Thursday I am there in
the mornings only. On Wednesdays I am at the Metchosin Tech
campus. Gillian is scheduled to
be at Metchosin Tech on Fridays.
So far it has been a busy year trying to meet all the distance education students and getting set for
the Aboriginal Recognition Ceremony.
Well, we are sad to say but this
will be our last newsletter submission from Metchosin Technical Centre. As of the end of this
year MTC will be closed and students will be amalgamated into
our other WestShore family of
schools or a different school in
the district. It has been wonderful
working in the small and beautiful community of Metchosin over
the years. We have great memories of working at MTC that we
will take away with us. Thank
you to staff and students for welcoming AbEd staff on their educational journeys at MTC.
This year has been great! Since
Christmas break, students have
really gotten into the groove and
have been working hard on their
academic courses. We have welcomed Aboriginal Role Models:
Alex Nelson, Veselin Jungec
WESTSHORE LANGFORD
CAMPUS AND METCHOSIN
TECHNICAL CENTRE
(cont’d)
from SFU Math Catchers, Fern
Perkins, and Bruce Comaniuk into
our school to share Aboriginal history, knowledge and stories with
student. To all of our Role Models
a big Hych’ka. In May we are taking both classes to T’Sou-ke Nation for a tour of their Solar Energy
initiatives. This should be a great
day! Thank you in advance to
T’Sou-ke Nation for the invitation!
MTC students are looking forward
to their upcoming camping trip!
They have been busy learning outdoor survival skills and first aid to
prepare for this trip! We hope you
have fun!
We would like to wish all of our
students a successful end of the
school year! Good luck on your
final assignments and exams! To
all of our MTC students and families, we wish you a safe and happy
summer! See you in September!
As for Westshore the First Nation
Grad program brought in Richard
Van Camp. It was great as the students from the Fast Forward program were also part of the presentation. There were many really
good questions from the students.
Dennis Warbrick,
[email protected]
WESTSHORE SOOKE LEARNING
CENTRE
My name is Gillian LeRose and I
am the Aboriginal Support and
English as a Second Dialect Teacher (ESD) for the WestShore Sooke
Learning Centre. We are located in
the Casa Building in Sooke! I work
alongside Hammond Domenichelli, who is the head teacher. We
have had a very busy year at the
Sooke campus. Students are busy
working away on their courses and
we are very proud of all the good
work students are doing. We have
been hosting monthly Aboriginal
Role Model Luncheons, as a way
to bring in various role models to
teach about Aboriginal history and
ways of knowing. Caroline Frank
came in to teach the history of bannock and taught students how to
make bannock. It was delicious!
WestShore First Nations Grad Student/Role Model Ronnie Tejano
taught her fellow students how to
make dream catchers and shared
stories about dream catchers that
were passed on to her. It was great
to see students teaching students!
In closing we would like to thank We also had Rebecca Taylor, comall the staff here at Westshore and munity liaison from Camosun ColMetchosin campus for all their
lege come in and share postwonderful help and support. Please secondary information with studo not hesitate to contact either of dents. This month we are excited
us at any time! We love hearing
to make mini drums! We are very
from our families!
thankful to all of our Role Models
for taking time out of their busy
Kukwtse’tsemc, Thank you
days to come share their
Gillian LeRose, geggleknowledge and histories with our
[email protected]
Page 31
group of students.
WS Sooke students have also
been participating in the Inspiring Neighbors Program and go to
Sooke Elementary every Thursday morning to read with elementary aged students. This is a
great opportunity to build relationships and increase the sense
of community between our
schools.
I would like to wish all of our
students a successful end to the
school year. In addition, I wish a
safe and happy summer to all of
our students and families.
Best Wishes,
Gillian LeRose
WestShore Aboriginal Support/
ESD Teacher
[email protected]
WESTSHORE COLWOOD CAMPUS
HI, we are “The A Team”, loud
and proud! My name is Trish
McNabb and I am the Aboriginal
Education Support Worker and I
work alongside Gillian LeRose,
Aboriginal Literacy and ESD
Teacher. We are here to help Aboriginal students and all students
to succeed both academically and
personally.
Every morning students can’t
wait to have a cup of traditional
tea. The tea not only provides a
healthy and tasty drink, but provides away for students and staff
to connect and build relationships outside the classroom.
Please stop in, to see the
Spring 2014—2015
Secondary School News
proud of all the grads and wish
them the very best of luck where
ever life takes them. Thank you for
changes to our new school and letting Gillian and myself be a part
of your learning and educational
meet the students and the
journey.
amazing staff. Have a cup of
Traditional Tea, provided by
Guess What? Ok, I have to tell you
our District Principal of
that, Gillian Le Rose our AborigiAboriginal Education,
nal Support Teacher is having a
Kathleen King- Hunt.
“BABY”! We are all so happy for
Wow, we are almost done for Gillian and her husband and wish
the year! We can’t believe how them the very best. You will be
truly missed but enjoy life because
fast the year has gone! Stua new life is amazing and every
dents have had a successful
year and are busy finishing up day is a learning experience. WE
their course work and prepar- ALL LOVE GILLIAN !
ing for final exams. Recently, Our Aboriginal Role Model Proreport cards went home; WAY gram is thriving at WestShore this
TO GO, to all the students.
year. We have been fortunate to
They are thriving academically welcome many great leaders and
in all areas.
mentors into our classrooms to
teach about where we live, our hisWith graduation around the
tory, stories, the land, culture and
corner, our grade 12s are
people. We would like to thank the
working hard right now and
following Role Models for coming
even staying after school to
into our school this year: Earl
make sure everything that
needs to be done is DONE and Claxton Jr., John Williams, Leslie
McGarry, Fern Perkins, Charlene
DONE RIGHT ! Many are
filling out scholarships and we George, Chief Russ Chipps,
are so proud of everyone. The Darrell Charles, Alex Nelson,
Aboriginal Recognition Cere- Nicole Mandryk, Shane from
UVIC and Rebecca from
mony is May 30, 2015 in the
Camosun. Your stories and teachAboriginal Gathering Place,
Nat’sa’maht at Camosun Col- ings truly enhance the learning and
experience for all of our students
lege. For more information
please call us at the school. We and staff. Hych’ka to you all!
hope to see all of our grads and The grade 9 and 10 cohorts went to
families there. This is a won- Wild Play in April and yes I did
derful day and opportunity to get to go! It was great to see the
celebrate all of the hard work students working together, helping
and achievements of our grad- and encouraging each other as we
uating students. We are so
went through the course. I want to
WESTSHORE COLWOOD
CAMPUS (cont’d)
Page 32
say Hych’ka to all the students that
helped me with my fear of heights.
The students were great about it;
they cheered me on and told me
what a great job I did! Hych’ka!
The day was amazing and a lot of
the students finished the whole
course and they got to do the extreme course. I couldn’t stop
laughing, out of fear for the students, it was a very difficult course
but they all made it to the end. Only one staff member made it
through the whole course and also
did the extreme course, WAY TO
GO STEPHAN!
We have many pictures so please
come by the school and have a
look.
Duck Soup will soon be out, so
please grab one and look at the
amazing poetry, writing and art
work from all the students from
SD#62 Sooke.
If your child needs to complete any
courses throughout the summer,
WestShore summer programs will
be starting in July at Westshore
Centre on Goldstream. Please call
or check out the website for more
information: 250-391-9002 OR
www.westshorecentre.com
Saving the best for last, on June 3,
2015 WestShore Colwood will be
hosting an Open House to show off
our new school and all the opportunities we provide here as well as
all the exceptional work that our
students do. We look forward to a
territory acknowledgement and
welcome from Chief Russ Chipps,
an opening prayer from
Aboriginal Education School District No. 62
Secondary School News
WESTSHORE COLWOOD
CAMPUS (cont’d)
Elder Shirley Alphonse.
We are very excited to show off
our school to the local community! Don’t forget to stop by! For
more information, please contact
the school!
Please feel free to contact us at
any time! We love hearing from
you! Please call 250-474-2502 or
email: Trish McNabb Aboriginal
Support Worker:
[email protected] and
Gillian LeRose Aboriginal
Education Teacher/ESD Teacher:
[email protected]
F.D.—Claymation Art, MTC
Poirier, Crystal View, Wishart,
Colwood, and Happy Valley), my
role in each classroom is slightly
different depending on individual
needs and what classroom activities may be. I am often supporting
our students with their assignments, and this is especially the
case in the intermediate levels.
When I visit primary classrooms,
I am often focusing on building
fundamental skills in reading,
writing, and language skills by
playing learning games or through
other fun activities, in addition to
supporting them in regular classroom work. Whenever students
are caught up, I like to bring cooperative board games, to encourage oral language skills, team
work, and problem solving. I really feel that skills learned in cooperative games fit perfectly with
traditional ways of learning and
conducting oneself in the world. I
look forward to seeing all the students again next year, and to all
the other kids who are moving on
to middle schools or new communities, I wish them all the best in
continuing their education!!!
B. H-K, Gr. 9, W/S Colwood
Métis Nation of Greater
Victoria
Go to www.mngv.ca
for
community monthly
potluck locations and
dates!
Join MNGV Facebook
Sam Peekeekoot
POIRIER, CRYSTAL VIEW,
WISHART, COLWOOD AND HAPPY
VALLEY
What?! It’s nearly the end of the
school year already?! The months
have just flown by since Winter
Break, I can hardly believe it. I’m
sure the kids are feeling it too,
since they are so busy with all the
amazing things going on in their
classrooms and in their schools.
As an ESD Support Worker (at
Poirier, Crystal View, Wishart,
Page 33
Richard Van Camp, Author
and Role Model
Time Capsule John Stubbs, Grade 7/8
with artist Weyla Chipps-Roy
Spring 2014—2015
Special Event:
Recognition Ceremony
Saturday, May 30th, 2015
Time:
1:00 to 4:00 pm
Location:
Camosun College,
Na’tsa’maht Ceremonial Venue,
Lansdowne Campus
Our graduation ceremony was a full house this year with so many Aboriginal graduates.
Hych’ka to our partner groups for donating to the event, specifically:
M’Akola Housing Society, Kinder Morgan Canada Inc., Fortis BC Energy
(Vancouver Island) Inc., and Peoples Drug Mart (Sooke)
Thanks to the following organizations for donating items for
Silent Auction for Aboriginal Grad Recognition Ceremony 2015:

Firestone—Milwaukee Power Drill

Pacheedaht Nation—Crab donated

Midas - Oil Change Gift

Pacheedaht Nation—Jewelry and burnt rock
Certificates x 2

West Coast Promotional Products—Carved
Feather

Victoria Car Wash - carwash full service coupons
X4

Individual donations.

Noodle Box—Meal Cards x 4

Elegance Nails—Nail Treatment Gift
Certificate

Rona—Battery Charger

Level Ground Trading - Gift Baskets x 2

Belmont Students—15 Hand made side
tables

Westshore Panago—Pizzas x 4

Pig Joint Certificates x 3

Scia’new Nation—Aboriginal Carving

Yates Street Tap House Certificate

VI Fitness Passes x 5
Welcome to ….

John Pearce, Teacher, EMCS

Amber Rowse-Simmons, AESW, Sooke
Elementary
Good Luck to ….

Kenneth Kissinger, AESW
ABORIGINAL BACK TO SCHOOL PICNIC—AUGUST 8, 2015.
Go to www.surroundedbycedar.com for details.
Page 34
Aboriginal Education School District No. 62
Recipients of Books for Submitting Art and Poems

M. Johal, Westshore

C. Stevenson, W/S Colwood

B. Power, John Stubbs

E. Eugene, W/S Colwood

E. Bruno, Crystalview

S. Van Netten, Journey

C. Lachance, W/S Colwood

A. Bossio, Crystalview

A. MacKenzie, Journey

T. Henry, W/S Colwood

Chris, Savory

D. Warren, Ecole Poirier

J. Dahota, W/S Colwood

Gideon, Savory

A. Crossley, Ecole Poirier

T. McClurg, Westshore

Annalise, Savory

T. Smith, Wishart

F. Johnson, W/S Colwood

M. Vowles, Journey

J. Rose, Saseenos

K. Wyborn, W/S Colwood

T. O’Connell, John Stubbs

S. Cooper, Hans Helgesen
Thanks to the Aboriginal Education Staff for the Newsletter
If you would like to submit artwork or poems to the Aboriginal Education
Newsletter, please forward your submission by email to: Leslie Morison,
Aboriginal Education Department Secretary at: [email protected], or
alternatively:
Cut the coupon below – return to your school office to
send to Kathleen King-Hunt at the SBO.
Yes, I have read this newsletter with my family!
Return this coupon to win family books from Aboriginal Education Department.
One coupon per family is fine.
A book prize will be forwarded to your school.
Name(s):
School:
Grade:
Return this coupon to your school’s office to be forwarded to the SD62 School
Board Office.
Attention: Kathleen King-Hunt, District Principal Aboriginal Education
Page 35
Aboriginal Education School District No. 62
Page 36
Aboriginal Education School District No. 62