Elder Evelyn Day and Morgana Larsen, a First Nations, Métis and Inuit lead teacher at A.L. Horton Elementary, perform the apple dance together at the second EIPS Round Dance that took place at F.R. Haythorne Junior High.

Sherwood Park, AB. — This March, the First Nations, Métis and Inuit Education team at Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) hosted the second EIPS Round Dance in collaboration with F.R. Haythorne Junior High. “I was honoured—the Elk Island Round Dance was so welcoming,” says Elder Evelyn Day. “It opened the doors to freedom, friendship and spiritual growth. I became a little girl again. I had so much fun! It was well-planned, the feast was beautiful, and I was blessed to see the ones who put it together and see their knowledge—their talents of welcoming everyone.”

Brooklyn MacNeil, a Grade 9 student at F.R. Haythorne, is also glad she went. “The Round Dance was an amazing new experience that I got to do with my best friend. When I was there, I got to make bannock and sew for everyone and dance. I’ve never had more fun in my life. Before I went to the Round Dance, I was told we’d be able to make food for Elders and dance and that it would be a lot of fun—that sold me. Maybe next year we’ll come back and do it again.”

Before the Round Dance, Elder Wilson Bearhead and Tom Snow led a pipe ceremony following proper protocol. Many students, families and community members attended the event, learning what the round dance means and its lasting significance to truth and reconciliation today.

“The round dance brings people from all cultures, backgrounds and beliefs together to interact with one another in a good way,” says Leaha Atcheynum, a First Nations, Métis and Inuit advisor at EIPS. “We believe the dance brings healing, honour and the ability to celebrate life to the fullest. Putting aside differences for one evening, joining hands and dancing in circular motion the way the earth travels around the sun.”

In partnership with schools and communities across the Division, the EIPS First Nations, Métis and Inuit Education team has hosted several events, including Candle Day, EIPS Ribbon Skirt-Shirt Day and gatherings for self-identified families. Orange Shirt Day and National Indigenous Peoples Day are celebrated every year divisionwide.

For more information on EIPS First Nations, Métis and Inuit education visit eips.ca.

Elk Island Public Schools is one of Alberta’s largest school divisions, serving approximately 17,750 students in 42 schools. We are proud to be an integral part of our communities, including Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Vegreville, Strathcona and Lamont counties, and the western portion of the County of Minburn.

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For more information, media can contact:
Laura McNabb, Director, Communication Services, EIPS 780-417-8204 cell 780-405-4902