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Dates to Document
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Prinicpal's Post
Oki, Dādánast’áda, Âba Wathtec, Tânisi, Taanishi, Bonjour, Hello
This land on which we gather is traditionally known as Moh'kinstsis (Blackfoot), Guts’ists’i (Tsuut’ina), Wîchîspa (Nakoda), and otôskwanihk (Northern Michif & Cree). Here in Moh'kinstsis, where the Bow and Elbow Rivers meet and the prairie meets the sky, we are reminded of the many stories, histories, and peoples that have shaped this place.
On Friday, June 19, we will recognize National Indigenous Peoples Day, which is celebrated annually on June 21. This is a time to celebrate the strength of Indigenous peoples, the wisdom of Elders and Knowledge Keepers, and the voices of youth who carry these teachings forward.
As part of our work at Cranston, students have learned about the four quadrants of the Calgary Board of Education's Indigenous Holistic Lifelong Learning Framework. This framework recognizes that learning and well-being are interconnected, and that growth occurs across all aspects of a person's life. The four domains of Spirit, Heart, Body, and Mind invite students to reflect on who we are, how we connect with others, and the many ways we learn, grow, and contribute to our communities.
We welcome First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students, and students who have been gifted or have connections to traditional clothing such as ribbon skirts, ribbon shirts, moccasins, or sashes, to wear them on June 19. All other students are invited to wear one of the four colours associated with the Indigenous Holistic Lifelong Learning Framework:
- Yellow – Spirit – To Be
- Red – Heart – To Belong
- Black – Body – To Do
- White – Mind – To Know
Last week, an email was sent home inviting families to share a photo connected to their child's grade-level focus. These photos will be shared with students to help spark meaningful conversations about identity, belonging, strengths, interests, relationships, and well-being. Please review the information below and send your family's photo to your child's teacher by Monday, June 15.
- Kindergarten – Learning Through Play
ONE photo that shows your child learning, exploring, creating, imagining, or discovering through play at home or in the community. - Grade 1 – Spirit (to Be)
ONE photo that showcases what makes your family unique; your special spark, tradition, strength, or quality that makes your family who they are. - Grade 2 – Heart (to Belong)
ONE photo that demonstrates how your family shows kindness, care, and love toward one another. - Grade 3 – Body (to Do)
ONE photo that shows how your family stays active, plays, or enjoys the land together. - Grade 4 – Mind (to Know)
ONE photo that shows your child's hobby, passion, or special interest.
At Cranston School, the Blackfoot word Iikakimat (EE-GAH-GI-MAH) teaches us to always give and do our best in whatever we are doing and with the people we are with. We believe that learning about Indigenous perspectives helps all of us develop a deeper understanding of ourselves, one another, and the diverse communities that make up Treaty 7 and the rest of Canada. With hand to heart, we look forward to a week of learning, reflection, and celebration.
Families interested in extending their learning together may wish to explore some of the many Indigenous community events, celebrations, and gatherings taking place throughout Calgary and the surrounding area this month. These events welcome both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to come together in a spirit of respect, learning, celebration, and relationship:
- National Indigenous Peoples Month at the Calgary Public Library – Multiple dates that include a comedy & puppet show, lunch & learn, and a panel discussion about Indigenous Joy
- Aboriginal Awareness Week Calgary Opening Ceremony at The Confluence Holy Gathering Space on June 15
- Family Day & Powwow at Elbow River Camp, Calgary Stampede on June 21
- Walk for Reconciliation starting at the Harry Hays Building on June 21
- Siksika Nation Fair Pow Wow at Siksika First Nation Piiksapi Memorial Arbour, June 26-28
- The Gathering at Moh’kinsstis | National Indigenous Peoples Day June 21 at Container Park and Alexandra Centre
- Banff Centre for Arts & Creativity | National Indigenous History Month Events, Events will held person at Banff Centre, at partner locations in Banff and Canmore, and online.
Reminders & Ramblings
Our final School Council meeting of the year takes place this Tuesday (at the school and online) at 6:30pm. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the hard-working Executive Committee members of our School Council and Fundraising Society and the many volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that student learning at Cranston School is enriched. We would love to add your voice! If you would like to lend a hand on next year’s executive, please send an email to cranstoncouncil@gmail.com or if you just want to know more about what happens at the school, attend Tuesday’s meeting in person or online using the link sent to you on the weekend.
Dates to Document
- June 16 – School Council Meeting (6:30 pm, in person and online)
- June 19 – Indigenous Peoples Day (see message above)
- June 23 - Afternoon Grade 4 Ice Cream Social
- June 24 – Afternoon Sports Day (weather permitting)
- June 25 – Report Cards Available on MyCBE
- June 26 – Final Day of Classes (regular 12:00 PM dismissal)
- August 26 – Front Office Re-Opens
- August 31 – Classes Resume