Niitsitapi News | November 15-18 Picture Retake Day, Metis Week, Roc Your Mocs
Nutrition Plan
MON
No School Fall Break
TUE
No School Fall Break
WED
Breakfast: Hard Boiled Eggs, Nutrigrain Bars, Fruit
Lunch: Pasta & Red Sauce, Fruit & Veggies
THUR
Breakfast: Pan Granola Bars, Fruit, Yogurt Tubes, Cheese Strings
Lunch: Beef Soup, Grilled Cheese, Fruit & Veggies
FRI
Breakfast: Parfait & fruit
Looking Forward
Nov 14-18 – Métis Week
Nov 15 – Rock your Mocs Day
Nov 15 – Photo Retakes
Nov 17 – Fire Drill
Nov 22 – Wear – It Wednesday – Canadian Tuxedo
Nov 23 – Student Learning Conferences (4:30-7:30)
Nov 24 – Student Learning Conferences (9:00am – 12:00noon) (No school for students)
Nov 27 – Lock Down drill
Dec 8 – Professional Learning Day (No school for students)
Dec 14 – Winter Celebration (Hold the date for this afternoon family event!)
Wellness Clinic at Niitsitapi Learning Centre Update
As mentioned before, Alberta Health Services is launching a wellness clinic to offer culturally sensitive primary healthcare services to students, their siblings, and caregivers. The clinic will be staffed by medical practitioners and specialists from Elbow River Healing Lodge.
Although we have not yet received confirmation of the opening date, the recent assessment and evaluation of the wellness space by the Wellness Clinic nurses indicate that the opening date is approaching. Rest assured, once we have a confirmed date, we will promptly share the details with you!
MRU Student Nurses are back!
We welcomed our guest practicum nurses, Morgan, Christina, and Anne, last week. They will be joining our kindergarten classes on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays until December 6.
Indigenous Veterans & Remembrance Day Ceremony
“When we were called forth to fight for the cause of civilization, our people showed all the bravery of our warriors of old.” ~Mike Mountain Horse, Kainai First Nation
To mark Indigenous Veterans and Remembrance Day, our school community gathered to show respect and recognize the significant contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people to the Canadian Armed Forces. Two of our student leader emcees guided us through a ceremony rich in cultural significance.
The beat of drums filled the air, setting the mood for the ceremony and connecting us to Indigenous traditions. Our fellow students respectfully placed wreaths as a way of saying thanks to Indigenous veterans, past and present, for all they have done. The imagery of Indigenous warriors, as depicted in the pictoglyphs at Writing on Stone, came to life through the heartfelt storytelling of Elder Saa’kokoto, who shared stories that connected us to the bravery and resilience of those who have served.
We stood together in silence, providing a collective pause for reflection and remembrance. As a school community, we stand united in recognizing the importance of Indigenous Veterans Day, not only as a day of commemoration but as an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the diverse contributions that shape our nation. This event served as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that enriches our community and the integral role Indigenous individuals have played in safeguarding the freedoms we cherish.
Inii’s Insights
November 14-18th is Métis Week! Who are the Métis?
The Métis People have a unique history, culture and language. They are Otimpemisiwak, "the people that own themselves". They continue to stand strong behind their heritage, preserving the stories, traditions, and ways of life that distinguish the Métis from other Indigenous groups within Canada. The Métis culture dates as far back as the 17th century, known for its distinctive clothing, art, festive music, and dance. During Métis Week we celebrate Métis culture, history, and contributions. As well, on November 16, Louis Riel Day, we recognize the anniversary of Riel's execution in 1885. This day is an opportunity to learn more about the life and leader of the Métis people.
Learn more about the Metis People and their homeland on Rupertsland Institute Métis Centre of Excellence website.