March 26, 2025
Mi'kmaw Kina'matnewey hosted our annual Symposium this month. The theme this year was "L’nuita’simk across the curriculum - integrating language and culture with subject content across all grade levels."
Each of the communities had an opportunity to showcase all of the wonderful things happening in their communities and schools. We also got to hear from panelists from communities who are offering drum groups, land-based learning and elders in the classrooms. They shared their experiences on how they started this programming, how things are organized in their schools, the benefits of the program and any tips for communities who are interested in offering similar programs in their communities.
One of the things we were very excited about this year was having the student drum groups from across the province come and perform. They were all so fantastic!
We offered some workshops during the afternoon of March 5th, and some entertainment that evening. We always love having the opportunity to come together with all of our communities in one place.
We concluded the event with a special announcement from the Province of Nova Scotia announcing $1.3 million in annual funding to advance Mi’kmaw language revitalization initiatives. This investment will strengthen capacity in Mi’kmaw communities, help expand language learning programs, develop new resources, and promote the use of Mi’kmaw in communities, workplaces and schools.
Mi'kmaw Language and Culture
ECE
Eskasoni Ksite’taqn Daycare took part in a beautiful smudging ceremony on March 25th to welcome their new ribbon skirts and vests.These special pieces, sponsored by MK and handmade by Sarah Cabot , were blessed by Jolita Stevens and Kate Jadis, who led the smudging.The ceremony ended with everyone joining hands in a round dance, a heartfelt celebration of culture, community, and tradition.
We had our Mi'kmaw Language Educators Networking day on Saturday, March 22, in Eskasoni. Karen Bernard facilitated the day on Kini'skwej, she shared her research on the history of Kini'skwejl and her journey on how to make them and the meaning behind the symbols and beadwork. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the presentation, and after lunch, everyone was able to make their own mini Kini'skwej to take back to their classrooms.
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Academic Services
Many of our Data Administrators are not Teachers or Educators and do not get to have the opportunity to participate in MK's Cultural aspect of professional development although they are a vital part of our team.
Our current structure is solely devoted to computer work and training with no opportunities to form informal connections and support. Our Data Admin never has the opportunity to encompass sharing opportunities and knowledge amongst others during our training sessions. This month Gloria and Vance wanted to offer them the opportunity to make their own drum and they plan to offer more cultural workshops throughout the school year!
Tech Services
Apple Creative Learning PLC met March 29 and 30. Twenty eight teachers representing all schools within the MK collective gathered to learn new skills to bring back to their classes and communities. This session had the teachers working toward gaining their Apple Teacher Certification, and trying their hand at Stop Motion Animation. It was a fun and engaging day that didn't end there! Several of the teachers gathered at ACTIVATE for some team building activities where we worked up a sweat and had a lot of laughs! On Sunday we came back together to make plans on how these teachers will become the support system within their elementary schools to encourage and support other teachers to try new technology approaches. We now have the framework for a great team (that has not officially been named yet!)
Post Secondary
A basket making workshop for Adult Ed instructors and Guidance counsellors was coordinated by the Post-Secondary department. The session was hosted on February 28 and March 1st. The baskets are so beautiful!
