Students from the Lloydminster Public School Division (LPSD) recently spent time learning Indigenous culture through hands-on experiences.
Clint Chocan, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit consultant of learning and instruction for the LPSD, helped organize the event.
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“Our goal was to give students an authentic, hands-on opportunity to connect with land-based and traditional cultural knowledge,” he said.
Chocan said the goal wasn’t just to teach but to help students experience Indigenous culture.
“We wanted them to not only learn about Indigenous culture but also experience it in a meaningful and memorable way,” he said, “That deepens their understanding and respect.”
Students took part in archery, hide scraping, bannock cooking, a guided hike and traditional hand games.
“We selected activities that reflect traditional skills and seasonal practices tied to springtime,” Chocan said, noting the hike had teachings on history, character and morals.
The LPSD worked with local Indigenous knowledge keepers and community partners to plan the event.
“We work closely with local knowledge keepers and community partners throughout the school year to ensure our teachings are respectful, relevant, and grounded in authentic teachings,” said Chocan, adding student reactions were proof they were excited to learn.
“The students liked the hand games, which brought out their competitive side in such a fun way,” said Chocan.
“Archery was a big hit. Many were trying it for the first time and really leaned into learning the skill,” he added. “And honestly, who doesn’t love a bannock dog and a day spent outside?”
Lloydminster and District Fish and Game supports the cause
Dwayne Davison, president of the Lloydminster and District Fish and Game Association, helped run the archery station.
“It’s always a cool experience, it’s over very quickly. Most of them don’t really know archery is very disciplined; most don’t know there is a line to stand behind for archery,” said Davison.
He said some kids learned fast and grew in confidence.
“After three or four times and a little instruction, they put themselves out there,” he said. “You could hear them cheer when they got the target.”
Meanwhile, Davison said the day helped bring students together.
“Quite a few of the kids know each other,” he said. “But in situations like this, the kids are equal because they’re doing the same things, learning the same things.”
Chocan said events like this help bring Truth and Reconciliation efforts into the classroom.
“It supports curriculum goals around Indigenous perspectives and histories,” he said. “But more than that, it helps build empathy, awareness, and respect.”
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