Iinii Insights |  

Saskatoon Berries, Sugar Pear or Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia): This berry was called the Misaskatoomena by the Cree, and the Serviceberry by the English. The Métis call Saskatoons “lii pwayr” (in Michif) which comes from the French name poirettes and petites poires. The fruits of the Saskatoon are eaten fresh, canned or dried. The Metis, after gathering the berries, would spread them out on tarps or blankets to dry. If the blankets were to be left overnight, they would be elevated on stakes to protect the fruit from animals. Saskatoons would be pounded into died loaves of ten to fifteen pounds to be kept over winter. The berries were often mixed with dry powdered meat to make pemmican. Sticks of the Saskatoon bush were barked and split, then boiled in sturgeon oil to keep the oil fresh during storage. 

Check out this recipe from Chef Shane M. Chartrand from Enoch Cree Nation 

Traditional Metis Foods and Food Preparation By Lawrence Barkwell, Audreen Hourie, Anne Acco and Leah Dorion) 

Nutrition Plan 

• 2025/2026 School Calendar 
• School Registration  
• Transportation 
• Pay Fees Online 

Classroom Connection|  

As we wrapped up Métis Week students learned about the significance of the Métis sash. 
Students explored how the sash represents community, identity, and resilience within the Métis Nation. They learned about its traditional practical uses and its continued importance in celebrating Métis heritage today. 

Throughout the week, students also enjoyed learning to play spoons, exploring a trapper tent, and engaging in hands-on learning that helped bring Métis history and culture to life in our classrooms. 

We approached all activities with respect, acknowledging that the sash and other cultural teachings are not costumes or props, but meaningful symbols that belong to the Métis people. Our focus was on understanding, pride, honouring, and learning 

We are grateful for the opportunity to deepen our knowledge and appreciation of the Métis Nation. 

For your Information|  

Parent Teacher Conferences  

Parent-teacher conferences are a great chance to connect and talk about your child’s learning. These conversations give families and teachers time to celebrate strengths, share updates, and work together on next steps to support your child’s success. 

We look forward to connecting with you and celebrating your child’s learning journey! 

Conference Details: 

• The booking system is now open and families have recieved an e-mail  
• All conferences will be held in person at Niitsitapi Learning Centre  
• Each conference will be 10 minutes long. 

Conference Dates: 

• Friday, November 28 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 

MyCBE (PowerSchool) Parent Account        

Please create a MyCBE parent account. MyCBE provides parents online access to register for transportation and lunch supervision, pay fees and request fee waivers, book school conferences, and view attendance and report cards. Student CBE ID# is needed to create the account. Please contact the main office for assistance at 403-817-3404. 

Label Your Child’s Belongings for School  

As we move through the school year, we kindly remind families of the importance of labelling all personal items, including jackets, sweaters, boots, lunch kits, water bottles, mittens, and backpacks. 

With so many similar items in busy classrooms, labels help us quickly and easily return lost belongings to their owners. 

While teachers and staff support students in building routines and learning to care for their things, they are not responsible for lost or misplaced items. Labelling makes a big difference in helping children stay organized and independent—and prevents many items from ending up in the lost and found! 

✔️ Use permanent marker or name labels 
✔️ Label first and last name whenever possible 
✔️ Check labels regularly as they can fade 

Thank you for your support in helping our students build responsibility and keep their belongings safe!  

Community Resources |  

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.