The Talking Stick
January 2026
Around the Division
Tansi / Taanishi / Hello Everyone
As we settle into the new year, we observe the snow covering the earth like a heavy, protective blanket. This is a necessary rest; the snow puts the trees and plants to sleep for the winter season, allowing them to conserve their energy so they may awaken revitalized in the spring.
In accordance with the season, the presence of snow on the ground signals the traditional time for storytelling. It's a sacred season for gathering, passing down knowledge and listening to the teachings of the land while the earth rests.
In the spirit of passing down knowledge, we're thrilled to announce excellent and exciting learning experiences ahead for both staff and students:
- For Staff: New professional learning experiences are starting in January.
- For Students: Engaging learning opportunities are planned for students as well.
Watch for these sessions beginning this month, with even more to come throughout February. We look forward to sharing these stories and teachings with you all.
Upcoming Professional Learning
First Nation, Métis and Inuit Lead Day #2
Jan.22, 2026- First Nation, Métis and Inuit Lead Day #2 -Bev Facey Community High School Library
Coming up in February
Feb. 10, 2026 - Inuit PL with Goota Desmarais - Details to come
Feb. 26, 2026 - High school trappers winter cultural camp - Details to come
Direct Student Supports
🗓️ Important Dates & EIPS Closing
- Last Day of Classes: Friday, Dec. 19, 2025
- Winter Break: Monday, Dec. 23, 2025 – Friday, Jan. 3, 2026
- Classes Resume: Monday, Jan. 6, 2026
We wish all staff, students and community a safe and restful winter break.
Community Connections
Enoch Cree Nation Drumming and Singing Workshops
Time: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Location: Mamowicitowin Building Gym (Kitaskinaw/Old School)
2200-2204 Township Rd 523
Enoch AB T7K 3Y3
For more information, please contact Sandra Alexander at 780-470-6990
or Shailley Peacock at 780-819-9459.
Winter learning opportunities
Registration for six Indigenous language learning online courses! These start in January, and are open to everyone (free for Indigenous participants).
Robin Wall Kimmerer will join Monique Gray Smith for a winter version of the Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults: Educators Course!
Richard Van Camp - Four one-hour courses: Indigenous Storytelling: Creativity, Reclamation & Miracles.
