This year at the annual SD 71 Aboriginal Recognition Night we recognized three exceptional Nala’atsi students: Tabitha Clark, Kaycee Williams, and Desteni Hardy. Tabitha was recognized for outstanding personal growth, her consistently excellent attitude, and her willingness to take risks and try new things. Kaycee was recognized for maintaining an excellent balance between school & outside interests and passions – like dance and mountain biking – for always coming to school with a positive attitude, and for exemplary participation and attendance. Desteni was recognized for her impressive knowledge, experience, and leadership in cultural activities this year, which included mentoring younger students. She was also recognized for the dramatic improvements she’s made this year in terms of work habits and attendance. Well done everyone!

On a sunny Wednesday afternoon the Nala’atsi crew headed to Camp Gilwell to rebuild the Sweat Lodge that we had constructed all the way back in November 2017. Guided by everyone’s favourite Elder-in-training, Daryle Mills, we started by gathering young Alders and a few hours later had erected a picture-perfect Sweat Lodge . The following day students and staff participated in our second sweat of the year. It was another beautiful spring day, and we felt privileged and honoured to have this opportunity to immerse ourselves in culture. Thank you Daryle!

It was a brisk, stormy Monday but our students braved the elements (& did not complain about the weather or being wet and cold once) for a fascinating and informative workshop about traditional K’omoks fishing weirs, led by the wonderful Lynn Swift. We learned about traditional fishing techniques for salmon and herring, as well as the history of the weirs and how they were used. Emmylou also had a nice time prancing about the beach. Thank you Lynn and Lelaina for an informative & enjoyable afternoon!

On a surprisingly sunny Thursday the Nala’atsi crew headed to Parksville in the Bobbie Bailer Bus for an action-packed (and often highly comical) afternoon of mini-golf at Paradise Fun Park. It was a really enjoyable day full of laughter and good times. Bobbie’s team ended up winning by literal decimal points. Well done Bobbie’s team!

On February 27th, Nala’atsi student Marion Dawson was recognized as the Rotary Club Student of the Month. Marion was chosen because of her excellent work habits, her generosity and kindness towards students, staff, and visitors, her political activism and cultural engagement, and her commitment to her community and family. Well done Marion!

Upon learning that the Comox Valley Art Gallery was hosting a very cool photography exhibit, the Nala’atsi crew headed to the CVAG for the afternoon. The exhibit was thought-provoking and well executed, and we appreciate the friendly staff opening their doors to us (even when they were technically closed). Thank you CVAG!

On January 24th the Nala’atsi crew headed out for our first overnight trip of the year to the Vancouver Island Mountain Center at Mt Washington. We were joined by several Vanier students, as well as Mavis Aubichon, Daryle Mills, and Alex Jules. After some entertaining ice-breaker activities, Mavis led us through a fantastic Medicine Wheel teaching. Then we feasted, played board games, cards, and charades, and watched movies. The next morning we greeted the day in a talking circle led by Mavis, had a delicious pancake breakfast, and then headed out snowshoeing in perfect conditions (so much new snow!) Thank you to Bobbie for organizing the trip and securing the grant! Also, a special thanks to Mavis, Daryle, and Alex for helping make the trip such a success.