FNESC 17th Annual Provincial Conference

FNESC is the First Nations Education Steering Committee.  Members from the SD46 Spirit Canoe Crew from Pulling Together 2010 and 2011 got together to present a workshop at the FNESC 2011 Provincial Conference on Aboriginal Education, themed “Students First.”  Our proposal to present was submitted a few months ago and was accepted.  The conference was held in the Westin Bayshore and it was a phenomenal conference.  Our presentation was titled “The Spirit Canoe.”  Our fearless leader had the vision and brought out the SD46 Spirit Canoe to the event.  We set up the workshop to model what we experience in Pulling together and all 5 of us shared our stories that related to the canoe, Dr.Brokenleg’s four directions, and benefits to student learning. Kerry brought the canoe, set the stage, and made the slide show.  Signy brought her 2010 and 2011 books she published, produced 2 large canoe pics, and told her story story well.  Ed brought his paddles, drum, and his many Vision Quest stories.  Ashley represented the RCMP well, organized escort vehicles for the canoe, and presented well.. And, I did my part of presenting, sharing my story, and helping out where I could.  Also, the rest of the SD46 Aboriginal Education team were present at the conference.  We all sat together, ate together, and celebrated together.  It was a wonderful professional development experience.  We met great people, saw familiar faces, ate well, awesome hospitality, and ultimately we were inspired.  Aside from us having 2 successful Spirit Canoe workshops, the opportunity to work with colleagues, and a chance to be a part of the FNESC conference, the most memorable part for me was to l to and be inspired by Dr. Cindy Blackstock from UofA. Here is one person making a difference in education amongst  room full of other individuals making a difference.  It was a powerful keynote address to say the least.  The Master of Ceremonies described Dr. Blacksock as a “dragon slayer.”  I would not disagree.  Thank you FNESC for a fantastic conference and thank you Spirit Canoe for the journey.  All my relations.  Much gratitude.