Kapawe’no First Nation – In the hallways of Kapawe’no Nehiyawak School, Ms. Sam Tomkins’ Grade 5/6 class showcases a commitment to lifelong learning and Nêhiyawak Pimachihowin. Engaged in the Nêhiyawêwin Isihcikewin program focused on language immersion, Ms. Tomkins leads her students in exploring Nêhiyawêwin and environmental stewardship.
The class extended their lessons to create a bulletin board filled with Askiy art, each piece reflecting their connection to Mother Earth and culture. These works go beyond school assignments; they are expressions of the students’ ties to their environment.
Artworks come with phrases in Nêhiyawêwin, reinforcing the language skills nurtured by Ms. Tomkins. This innovative approach helps students learn Nêhiyawêwin and use it to communicate important environmental messages.
As Kapawe’no First Nation continues to support these learning endeavors, it becomes clear that Ms. Tomkins’ classroom serves as a foundation for larger cultural goals—preserving Nêhiyawêwin, honoring the Seven Grandmother and Grandfather teachings, and preparing a generation deeply connected to their Nêhiyawak Pimachihowin and Askiy.
Last modified: May 13, 2024
