The Talking Stick
June 2026
Around the Division
Tansi / Taanishi / Hello Everyone
Welcome to June! In the Cree calendar, we've entered askîhk kiskinohamâtowin opâskahopîsim, the Egg Hatching Moon. This moon cycle represents a time of bursting forth, new life and preparing for the next stage of the journey—a beautiful reflection of our students as they prepare to wrap up their school year and step into the summer.
June is also National Indigenous History Month, a dedicated time to honour the rich histories, resilience and diverse cultures of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples. The month culminates with National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21.
Because June 21 falls on a Sunday this year, Elk Island Public Schools will officially recognize and celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day on Friday, June 19. However, we know this is a busy season filled with final exams and Provincial Achievement Tests (PATs). To accommodate these important academic schedules, schools have the flexibility to plan their own unique celebrations and learning events on either Friday, June 19 or Monday, June 22.
We encourage you to watch for information from your local schools regarding how they'll be celebrating this month, and we wish all students the very best as they finish their exams!
Upcoming Professional Learning
Intentional Planning for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (NDTR)
As the end of the year approaches, join us in looking ahead to create and implement a clear, meaningful vision for how your division, school or classroom can honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation—on September 30—through a Métis-specific lens. Together, we'll move beyond symbolic gestures to identify authentic resources and explore effective methods for embedding the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action into daily practice. This session will support educators in deepening understanding of the Residential School System’s enduring impacts while highlighting Métis stories and perspectives.
Student Supports
Métis Wellness Program
Call: 1-877-729-0261
(Indigenous) Hope For Wellness Helpline
Call: 1-855-242-3310
- University of Alberta Support for Indigenous Students https://www.ualberta.ca/en/admissions/how-to-apply/indigenous-students/index.html
Community Connections
National Indigenous History Month in Strathcona County
View the County's community events calendar and see what's happening near you
Inuvialuit Day Celebration (Edmonton)
Elder-in-Residence, Hand Drumming Circle
June 8, 2026 - Join Elder Terry (Coyote) Aleck and Christine Turenne (White Wolf Woman) for an Indigenous hand drumming circle at the Edmonton Public Library, Stanley A. Milner, downtown, on June 8 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Everyone is welcome and no experience or registration is necessary. Bring your own hand drum or use one of the extras provided!
8th Annual Alberta Métis Fest
Indigenous Craft Market
Edmonton National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations (30th Anniversary)
Sunday, June 21, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., at Re/Max Field in Edmonton. Join this free community event featuring Indigenous traditions, music, dance, stories and special Edmonton Oilers guests honouring Indigenous hockey players.