St. David Catholic Elementary School was greeted by “Me to We – Youth in Action” award winner, Autumn Peltier, from Wikwemikong First Nation who visited the Native Language class students.

She and her mother Stephanie talked about her travels around Mother Earth fighting for water, including representing Canada in the Children’s Climate Conference in Sweden, meeting our Prime Minister, and kicking off this year’s Water Walk.
The group then sang Water Song and offered tobacco to the School’s brook, which was named after Autumn. Students enjoyed the discussion and activities and can’t wait until their new friends visit again!

Students and staff at St. David Catholic School leaned about how traditional First Nation hand drumming represents the heartbeat of mother earth. Elder, teacher, and musician, Verna Hardwick, spent the afternoon with various classes at St. David School teaching students about the importance of the drum in Indigenous cultures. Students learned new songs and had the opportunity to participate in a drumming circle. “It was a beautiful experience not only for my students, but also for myself. Mrs. Hardwick was a wonderful teacher. She encouraged the students to build their self confidence by singing and drumming proudly. She also shared traditional teachings, some Ojibwe words and phrases and most importantly stressed the importance of respect with the students and participants”, stated grade 3/4 teacher Ginny Long.

On Wednesday, June 22 2016 Jeff Stewart from the Spirit of World Drumming spent the day at St. David Catholic School, drumming with students ranging from kindergarten to grade 6. In the drum circles, students were introduced to a variety of drums and percussion instruments from around the world. Music concepts, verbal / non-verbal language and mathematical awareness were integrated into cultural awareness to create a fun learning experience for all students!

“Mr. Stewart was a wonderful teacher, not only for our students, but also for our staff members. He re-inforced the importance of the arts in the curriculum and its positive impact on both literacy and mathematical achievement. He also spoke of music supporting students find their voice. It was a wonderfully positive and fun day.” stated Cindy Blinn, kindergarten teacher at St. David School.

St. David Catholic School celebrated National Aboriginal Day with a school wide Indigenous themed payday. The students learned about First Nation identity and culture while having fun outdoors. All students received a complimentary pizza lunch by local company, “Over the Atlantic” owned by former St. David School student, Joseph Mansourian. “Caring for each other, teamwork, and overcoming obstacles were the theme for the day. The students enjoyed the outdoor experience and opportunity to be leaders”, stated Lindsay Michel, FDK teacher and National Aboriginal Fun Day planner.