Through our Northern Studies Program students get to explore traditions and activities of First Nation, Métis and Inuit people of our region with hands-on learning opportunities. The program is a collaboration between the KCDSB, Kenora Métis Council, Grand Council Treaty #3 and multiple neighbouring First Nation communities. The program helps develop an understanding of the cultural significance in our area while learning the basics of the Ojibway language. Overall, it helps to shape and build bonds and relationships with all peoples of all nations.
All students in Kindergarten and Grade 4-5 are involved in the Northern Studies Program. Students learn language and culture through jigging, beading, square dancing, traditional story-telling, dogsledding, ice fishing, Spring and Fall traditional feasts, pow wows and more. Each year, for the past six years, students are invited to Pow Wow Island at Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation to take part in the Fall Harvest. Community members have various stations set up such as teepee building, bannock making, wild rice processing, fish filleting, traditional meat harvesting, storytelling with Elders, beading, pow wow regalia, traditional dancing and uses of sweet grass and sage.