Iinii Insights |
As we enter the winter break, we recognize this season as a time of rest, renewal, and returning to what matters most. Winter invites us to slow down, gather close to our families, listen to stories, and reflect on the teachings that guide us.
We are grateful for the relationships we have built together and for the kindness, courage, and growth we have witnessed in our students and families. May this time be filled with warmth, connection, and moments that nourish your spirit.
We look forward to welcoming everyone back in the new year with renewed energy, ready to continue learning, growing, and walking forward together in a good way.
Sending you peace, strength, and warmth this winter season.
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: Pizza Lunch, veggies & fruit |
THUR | Breakfast: Pan Granola bars, yogurt, cheese, fruit Lunch: Soup, Toasted buns, fruit & veggies |
FRI | Breakfast: Banana Bread, granola & yogurt parfait, fruit |
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Mon. Dec. 15 | Elder Visit Merry Moments: Ornament Making |
Tues. Dec. 16 | Elder Visit Merry Moments: Snowshoeing |
Wed. Dec. 17 | Elder Visit Merry Moments: Santa & Pizza Party PJ Day- Wear your pjs |
Thurs. Dec. 18 | Elder Visit Winter Solstice Ceremony with Elder Jim @ 10:30am |
Fri. Dec. 19 | Elder Visit Merry Moments: Festive Singing and Cooking Decorating Early Dismissal- 12:00pm |
Looking Forward | December 22-January 2- Winter Break No school Jan 5- Classes Resume |
Merry Moments| December 15-19
Merry Moments Week is happening this week! Students will take part in fun and engaging activities, meaningful land-based learning, and festive experiences. We’re also looking forward to a special visit from Santa, sure to bring lots of smiles and cheer.
We can’t wait to create joyful memories together! ✨
Invite|
Winter Solstice Ceremony
Residency| Elder Shirley
We are excited to welcome Elder Shirley Hill (Anatsipi’kssaakii) for a residency from December 15-19. She will spend the week sharing Blackfoot teachings with our students.
A proud member of Siksika Nation, Elder Shirley has been a Fancy Shawl dancer for nearly 40 years and is passionate about teaching traditional and hoop dance step by step. She shares the history of the Blackfoot people — Niitsitapiisinni (Our Way of Life) from the Dog Days, Horse Days, Buffalo Days, and into the present.
Elder Shirley teaches in many Calgary schools and loves sharing stories, introducing students to Lemon the Bear, and teaching Blackfoot language as a way to keep traditions alive and connect us to the land.
Community Resources |
NEW Volunteer Reading Program Begins in January
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 in the new year.
We look forward to welcoming community members who would like to share the joy of reading with our students!
NEW Kindergarten Registration 2026-27
Kindergarten registration for the 2026-27 school year will begin on Monday, January 12, 2026. Children can be registered for kindergarten if they turn five years old on or before December 31 of the school year they will be in kindergarten. For example, when registering for the 2026-27 school year, the child must turn five on or before Dec. 31, 2026.
More information can be found on kindergarten registration on the public CBE Kindergarten website.
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.