Iinii Insights 

Honouring Métis History and Celebrating Métis Week 

November is an important time to recognize and celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of the Métis Nation. Métis people are one of the three distinct Indigenous Peoples recognized in Canada, with a unique culture, language, traditions, and history rooted in both Indigenous and European ancestry. 

Each year, Métis Week is celebrated during the week of November 16, commemorating the legacy of Louis Riel, a Métis leader who advocated for the rights, culture, and identity of the Métis people. Métis Week provides an opportunity to learn about the resilience, accomplishments, and ongoing contributions of Métis communities across Canada. 

Throughout November, our students will engage in learning experiences that help deepen their understanding of Métis history, traditions, and ways of knowing. By listening to stories, exploring Métis art and music, and learning about important historical and contemporary Métis figures, students will continue to build respect for the diverse cultures and histories that shape our country. 

As we learn together, we are reminded that understanding Indigenous histories and perspectives helps us strengthen relationships, foster belonging, and contribute to reconciliation. 

The Métis infinity symbol, often shown in blue or red, represents the joining of two cultures and the enduring existence of the Métis Nation. 💙∞❤️ 

At NLC this Week 

Nutrition Plan 

Eagle Tag – Piita Tag 🦅 

This week, we took our learning outdoors with Eagle Tag (Piita Tag), a land-based game that develops awareness, observation, and quick thinking. In this game, everyone is "it"! When a student is tagged, they sit down and become a Piita (Eagle), keeping their eyes on the player who tagged them. Using their Piita eyes, students practice being watchful, observant, and wisely aware of what is happening around them. This connects to the concept of kakyosin, encouraging students to pay attention, observe carefully, and build situational awareness. When their tagger is tagged and sits down, the Piita is free to spread their wings and rejoin the game! Through movement, connection to the land, and play, students are strengthening both their bodies and their awareness of the world around them. 

Métis Week 

From November 16-20, Niitsitapi Learning Centre will be celebrating Métis Week. Students will learn about Métis history, culture, and traditions through a variety of activities throughout the week. 

We are excited to welcome Elder Priscilla Paul, who will share stories, teach students the Land of the Silver Birch song and introduce them to Métis jigging. 

Classes will also create their own Métis-inspired dot art and use learning resources from Rupertsland Institute to explore Métis culture, history, and contributions. 

We look forward to a week of learning, celebration, and appreciation for the Métis people and their important role in our shared history and community. 

Learning in a Good Way: Elder Helpers and Tipi Teachings 

Niitsitapi Learning Centre is excited to welcome Adrian Goulet for a day of learning and cultural teachings with our students. 

During his visit, Adrian will work with students to develop an understanding of what it means to be an Elder's helper and the responsibilities that come with supporting and showing respect to Elders. Students will learn about the importance of listening, helping, and carrying themselves in a good way when participating in cultural experiences and gatherings. 

Adrian will also share tipi teachings, beginning with an introduction to the different parts of the tipi and their significance. Students will explore the teachings connected to the tipi and learn how it serves as a place of learning, community, and connection. 

We are grateful to Adrian for sharing his knowledge and helping our students strengthen their understanding of Indigenous teachings, protocols, and ways of being. 

Mark Your Calendars | Student Learning Conferences 

Student Learning Conferences will take place on Friday, November 27, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This is an opportunity to celebrate your child's learning and discuss next steps for success. 

Conference Details 

• Book through the MyCBE Parent Portal 
• Booking opens November 18 
• Conferences will be held in person at Niitsitapi Learning Centre 
• Each conference is 10 minutes 

We look forward to meeting with you and celebrating your child's learning.  

Need Help with Your MyCBE Account? 

Families will use MyCBE to book Student Learning Conferences. If you need help accessing your account, creating an account, or resetting your password, please contact the school office at 403-817-3404.  

Reminder: Special Cultural Learning Opportunity – November 23 

We are excited to welcome Sage Andrew Romero and Caitlin Ashmore to Niitsitapi Learning Centre on November 23 for a special day of cultural learning, storytelling, and connection. Families are warmly invited to attend a special afternoon performance beginning at 1:00 p.m. (doors open at 12:45 p.m.). 

We are grateful to the University of Calgary School of Creative and Performing Arts and the Movement Research Festival (MoRF) for making this learning opportunity possible. We look forward to learning together in a good way.