Plan to Attend the Third Annual EIPS Round Dance

Sherwood Park, AB. — This February, Bev Facey Community High and the First Nations, Métis and Inuit Education team at Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) will host the Division’s third annual Round Dance. All are welcome to attend.

At the event, Elder Wilson Bearhead will teach attendees what the round dance means and its lasting significance to truth and reconciliation today. “The Round Dance is open to everyone—of all ages! It’s a wonderful community gathering where you can bring your family, meet new friends, and share in a time of healing and connection,” says Leaha Atcheynum, First Nations Métis and Inuit Education Consultant at EIPS. “As we join hands and dance in a circle, moving to the heartbeat of the drum, we come together as one.”

Before the Round Dance, Terry Paskemin will lead a pipe ceremony following proper protocol. If participating in the pipe ceremony, attendees are recommended to wear a long skirt.

Event Details:
Date: Feb. 28, 2025
Pipe Ceremony: 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Feast: 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Round Dance: 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Location: Bev Facey Community High
99 Colwill Blvd., Sherwood Park
RSVP by February 24

Representatives of the media are welcome to attend the EIPS Round Dance. The Division asks no cameras or video are used during the pipe ceremony. Before and after the event—with the permission of the Elders and Knowledge Holders—media is allowed. For direction, contact Bev Facey Community High.

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 17,950 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