Iinii Insights |
Iitam’matstooyii - Happy New Year
The winter moons remind us that each Nation has unique stories and cultural teachings. Elder Anita Eagle Bear has shared that this moon (January) is known to the Kainai asaisstoyiimsstaa, which means “causes cold weather”. A calendar shared by the Piikani Nation names this moon ómahksiki'somm, Old Moon. When Grandmother Moon begins her cycle again in February, she is called piitaiki'somm, Eagle Moon, across Blackfoot Territory. Their return to the rivers will tell us the ice is melting, a subtle shift towards warmer weather and a promise that a new season is coming.
Nutrition Plan
MON | Breakfast: Cereal and milk, fruit, cheese Lunch: Brown Bagging for Calgary Kids lunches |
TUE | Breakfast: Muffins, Hardboiled Eggs, fruit Lunch: Soup, Grilled Sandwiches, fruit & veggies |
WED | Breakfast: Yogurt, Nutrigrain Bars, fruit cups, fruit Lunch: TBA , veggies & fruit |
THUR | Breakfast: Pan Granola bars, yogurt, cheese, fruit Lunch: Soup, Toasted buns, fruit & veggies |
FRI | Breakfast: Granola & yogurt Parfait, Fruit, Banana Bread |
| Winter| Blackfoot (Ipkssaisstoyiu), Tsuut'ina (Zask'a), Stoney Nakoda (Wanidu), Métis (L'ivayr) |
Mon. Jan. 5 | Classes Resume- Welcome Back |
Tues. Jan. 6 | Regular Day of Learning |
Wed. Jan. 7 | Lacrossing Barriers Return to NLC |
Thurs. Jan. 8 | Regular Day of Learning |
Fri. Jan. 9 | Popcorn Friday! Early Dismissal 12:00pm |
Looking Forward | 12- MRU Nursing Students begin at NLC 13- Elder Visit 22- Knowledge Holder Visit 30- Non-Instructional Day- No School
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Classroom Connection|
Lacrossing Barriers
We’re excited to share that Lacrossing Barriers is coming to our school!
Students will take part in hands-on lacrosse activities while 
Learn more about the program here:
👉 https://www.lacrossingbarriers.org/
We look forward to this meaningful and engaging experience for our students!
Community Resources |
NEW Kindergarten Registration 2026-27 |
Kindergarten registration for the 2026-27 school year will begin on Monday, January 12, 2026.
More information can be found on kindergarten registration on the public CBE Kindergarten website.
NEW Volunteer Reading Program Begins
We are excited to introduce our Volunteer Reading Program, beginning in January, to help nurture a love of reading in our early learners.
Program Details
- Approved community volunteers will be invited to read with students or listen to students' read.
- Teachers will select books that meet each child’s reading level and learning needs.
- Reading time will take place in our Central Gathering Space or Learning Commons.
- Ms. Nora, our Learning Commons Library Assistant, will welcome volunteers, help them get settled, and offer support throughout the session.
Weekly Schedule
- Every Wednesday morning
- January 12 – March 18
- Exact session time will be shared in the new year.
Why It Matters
Sharing stories with caring adults builds confidence, strengthens early literacy skills, and helps our students feel proud of their growth.
How to Sign Up
If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact the school office:
- 403-817-3404
- niitsitapilearningcentre@cbe.ab.ca
More information will be shared.
We look forward to welcoming community members who would like to share the joy of reading with our students!
Elbow River Healing Lodge
The Calgary Board of Education with Niitsitapi Learning Centre, in partnership with Alberta Health Services with Elbow River Healing Lodge has a Wellness Clinic on-site for students, parents, and extended family members. A Physician is on site in the clinic weekly for consultation by appointment. Contact the Elbow River Healing Lodge at (403) 955-6600 to book an appointment.