As part of our ongoing learning, students at Terry Fox School have the opportunity to participate in smudge. Smudge involves burning a small amount of a dried plant such as sage, sweetgrass or cedar inside a cast-iron dish or abalone shell.

 

Smudge is available to all students from 8:50-9:00 AM every day in the Learning Commons. Participation in smudge is informed, voluntary, and always connected to learning.

 

Families can expect there will be additional opportunities for students to participate outside this scheduled time as the year progresses. If a smudge is held during instructional time and if, for any reason, a student is not participating in this experiential learning, the teacher will ensure that associated learning outcomes are available. 

 

The inclusion of Indigenous perspectives and experiences in classrooms is supported and encouraged by:

• The Education Act, Section 16: Provincial regulations for schools. This learning experience connects directly to Section 16: Diversity & Respect
• Teaching Quality Standards: Professional standards which all Alberta teachers are expected to meet. This learning experience connects directly to: Applying Foundational Knowledge about First Nations, Métis & Inuit
• Alberta’s Education for Reconciliation: This experience connects to various outcomes in the Alberta Programs of Study which demonstrates Alberta’s commitment to First Nations, Metis and Inuit Perspectives and experiences in curriculum

 

We are honoured to offer this learning opportunity to students. For additional information and questions, please connect with Ms. Kirsten (kiriebot@cbe.ab.ca).