Jennifer George's Reflection

"A place that marks Calgary to the world is the Calgary Stampede Grounds. Whose prints were on that piece of land before it became the home of the Largest Outdoor Show on Earth? What is the relationship between the Treaty 7 First Nations and the Calgary Stampede? How are the fingerprints of the First Nations people preserved and respected at the Calgary Stampede? As the students explored the connection between the Treaty 7 First Nations and the Calgary Stampede, they discovered that their story and their fingerprints run deep.

Through 5 separate visits to the Stampede Grounds the students recognized how Aboriginal communities are integral to Canada's character and how they have contributed to the origin and evolution of our community over time.

Immersing them in the work through the study of artifacts, murals, music, dance and the stories of Elders, along with the tasks of constructing a Teepee and roasting bannock allowed the students a unique look at Native culture.

This unique learning experience took my students from a space of notions into a new space of knowing. Through this inquiry they have developed new habits of mind that they will carry with them forever and they feel empowered to be able to share their knowledge with others in such a profound and meaningful way."

Jennifer George - Grade 1/2 teacher, Prince Of Wales Elementary School

Jodi Prazak's Reflection

"Working on this project has been an exciting and eye-opening experience for me. Getting to see the kids actively engaged in their work and research has been very rewarding for everyone. I have realized how important culture is to my students and how much they want to share their knowledge, talents, and gifts with others, so others can learn more about who they are as Native people and what contributions their culture has made.

I believe that one of the most important aspects of this project has been working with so many different people and having so many different experiences. The children established friendships, listened to different elders and cultural instructors, worked with technology, produced amazing artwork, and became 'historians'. Just being able to produce work that really has a purpose and that other people around the world will use has made their work meaningful. I have become a better teacher for this experience."

Jodi Prazak - Grade 4 teacher, Piitoayis Family School