As a result of the Calls To Action recommended by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, A.A. Wright Public School in Wallaceburg is doing their part to bring indigenous ways of knowing and learning into the school in a meaningful way.
Gretchen Gamble, a teacher at the school, told the Sydenham Current they are working with an elder from Walpole Island, Cecil Isaac.
“We are focused on not only bringing new opportunities to our students, but also educating staff on appropriate ways to bring First Nations culture into the classroom,” Gamble said.
“We want our students’ experiences to be authentic and respectful. We also are focusing on getting more families into the school to experience these great learning opportunities. We are hoping to form more friendships and connections with the families of students who go to A.A. Wright, as well as make connections with people from the community who can come in and share their knowledge and expertise with our students.”
Gamble said she sat down with Isaac to come up with ways to engage families and create some wonderful opportunities.
“Our first learning opportunity was making hand drums on March 5,” she said.
“The response to our drum making night was tremendous. We had 20 families come and share a meal and make hand drums in our Learning Commons. Everyone had a great time learning together. We learned the origins and the importance of the drum in First Nations, and each family got to work together to create their own drum.”
The students that took part had some positive things to say when asked what they liked best about the drum making.
“I liked that everybody was invited. Anybody could come,” said Xander Williams, Grade 4.
“I liked that we got to make drums with our family and we got Cecil to help,” said Sunny Riley, Grade 3.
“My favourite part was making the drum,” said Danielle Isaac, Kindergarten.
“I liked making the holes in the hide with the leather punch,” said Colton Gamble, Kindergarten.
“I liked pulling the lacing, attaching it all together. I hope that we can do something like this again,” said Robyn Mikhaila, Grade 4.
Gamble said the school has more events planned to share First Nations culture and they are inviting all families to join in on the fun.
“Our next event is on (Tuesday) March 27…. we will have a ceremony to awaken the drums we created. We will also be having a drum social that evening. All families will be invited to attend,” Gamble said.
Here are some photos from the drum making event:
– Submitted photos
Thank you Gretchen Gamble for your positive teaching skills and supporting Truth and Reconciliation.