Students across Saskatoon Public Schools have opportunities to learn Indigenous languages, culture, and teachings through programs and classroom experiences supported by the division’s First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Unit.

The unit works with schools across the division to offer language and cultural teachings connected to curriculum. These opportunities help students build understanding, strengthen identity, and experience the richness of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit cultures.

“At Saskatoon Public Schools - through the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Unit - we offer languages and cultural teachings to every school in the division,” says Lyla Phillips, Michif/Métis Cultural Resource Liaison. “We have a great team who plans events and teachings connected to the curriculum and does a wonderful job sharing and teaching.” 

Michif Programming

At Westmount School, students can take part in Métis/Michif language and culture programming from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 8. The school is home to Mii Taant leur Plaas (Auntie's Place), a Michif Early Learning program for Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students. The Pre-Kindergarten program runs Monday to Thursday, while the Kindergarten program runs full days, Monday to Friday. City-wide busing is available for Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students enrolled in the Michif program. 

The program is open to all students, with priority given to Métis/Michif families. Lyla says allyship and shared learning are important parts of the work.

Westmount School will host an open house on Wednesday, May 20 at 5:30 p.m., inviting families to learn more about the school’s language and culture programming, meet staff, and take part in planned activities.

Cree Programming

Cree language and culture are also part of student learning at wâhkôhtowin School where the nêhiyâwiwin Cree Language and Culture Program supports students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 8. Audrey Ben, a Kindergarten teacher in the school’s Cree Cultural Program, says language plays an important role in helping students feel proud of who they are.

“An Elder told me that the language keeps you alive,” says Audrey. “It’s nice to hear the language. It makes students proud. It’s part of their identity.” 

wâhkôhtowin School will host its first powwow on Thursday, May 28, with programming taking place throughout the day. The event is being held to celebrate the 50th anniversary of wâhkôhtowin School (formerly Confederation Park School) and the 20th anniversary of the nêhiyâwiwin Cree Language and Culture Program. It will be an opportunity for students, families, staff, and community members to gather in celebration of culture, language, and community.

Community Connection

Both Westmount and wâhkôhtowin School also create opportunities for families and community members to experience and celebrate Indigenous culture. 

As well, community partnerships continue to play an important role in supporting Indigenous language and culture programming in Saskatoon Public Schools. The division is grateful for the support of Métis Nation–Saskatchewan, local Métis organizations, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community partners who help create meaningful learning experiences for students.

Families interested in learning more about Indigenous language and culture programming can contact Saskatoon Public Schools or their local school.

Watch the Global Family Matters segment: Indigenous Learning Centre programming

PHOTO: (from left) Audrey Ben and Lyla Phillips