Nêhiyawêwin Isihcikewin Thrives Every Morning at Our Schools

Kapawe’no First Nation – Every morning, our schools resonate with the strength and beauty of the nêhiyawêwin (Cree) language, a cherished and affectionate aspect of our learning experience. It’s truly remarkable how we are elevating Nehiyawewin to the forefront of learning.

Incorporating nêhiyawêwin alongside english has become a daily practice for our students. They engage in isihcikewin, meaning “to know for yourself,” each morning and continue integrating this knowledge throughout the day. This balance enriches their learning journey, nurturing both cultural pride and linguistic skills.

This week we are learning Kitohcikiwin (ki toh chi ki win) – Music

In the vastness of kitohcikiwin (music), it flows like the rhythm of life itself. The sound of nikamon (song) echoes through the trees, accompanied by the deep beat of a paskwâwin (drum). As voices blend in harmony, nikamowin (singing) fills the air with joy.

The notes of a okitohcikew (violin) and a kitohcikanis (flute) dance together, creating a melody. This melody is guided by the keen kiskeyihtamowin (knowledge) of a sipwehamakew (conductor). The takahkwewehtitawn (tapping) of feet adds depth, while a iskwewonikamow (woman singer) graces the harmony with elegance. The sounds linger, creating a cistawehtin (echo) in the listener’s mind, inspiring a nimihitowin (dance) of spirits, inviting all to a soulful pihtokwewin (entrance) to the world of music.