On Thursday,  February 15, the K-12 students and staff of Hartney School participated in a day of learning fun of the Metis culture.  The day began in the school gym with an opening ceremony and welcome to our elders and guests:  Ed and Delores Genaille (elders), Chris Leforte, Tim Inkster (Sr.), and Loretta Hollihan, along with Doug Pople were introduced, and Delores Genaille gave opening remarks and prayer.   The day’s 45-minute sessions were explained, and students then moved into their assigned rotations.  Sessions included were as follows:

Artifacts display and hands on learning:  Doug Pople

Fried Bannock and Maple Pop making:  Loretta Hollihan and Mrs. Waldner

Metis Jigging and Spoons Activity:  Mr. Wedgewood

Metis Dot Art:  Class teacher supporting

Outdoor activities and games: Paul Waldner and Clark Combs

Leather Medicine Pouch Making:  Mrs. Combs

Trapping and Tracking:  Chris Leforte, Ed Genaille, Tim Inkster (Sr.)

Residential School: Delores Genaille

At the lunch hour, all students received a “Bannock dog” lunch.  These tasty treats were well received and enjoyed by everyone.  The afternoon continued with the rotational sessions, and the day ended with a closing ceremony in the gym.  Delores Genaille gave closing remarks and ended with a closing prayer.   

This was the 3rd annual Metis Fest for Hartney school. In past years, the event was geared towards the K-6.  This year the goal was to extend to our 7-12 students, and an extended invitation was also sent out to families and the community.  Thank you to those who stopped in to observe and partake in the day of learning fun.  As the Honourable Justice Murray Sinclair once stated, education is the key to Reconciliation. 

Thank you to everyone for being, and taking part in this day of recognition and learning of the Metis culture.

HAPPY RETIREMENT MRS COMBS!