The Talking Stick
May 2026
Around the Division
Tansi / Taanishi / Hello Everyone
Welcome to May! In the Cree calendar, we're entering sâkipakâwipîsim, the Leaves Appearing Moon. After the steady awakening of early spring, this is the time when the land bursts into vibrant green. The budding leaves are a beautiful reminder of visible growth, renewed energy and the joy of stepping out into the warmth of the season.
Just as the landscape is transforming across the Division, community connections are also in full bloom this month. We're thrilled to share Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) will host a powwow—a powerful day of drumming, dancing and cultural pride—at Lakeland Ridge in Sherwood Park on May 23.
Additionally, we're hosting two Indigenous family nights this month: One for families in the Fort Saskatchewan area and another for communities in the eastern portion of the Division.
These gatherings are for everyone to share, learn and connect. Refer to the "Community Connections" section below for more details about times, specific locations and how to join us. Let's embrace the beautiful energy of sâkipakâwipîsim together!
Upcoming Professional Learning
First Nation, Métis and Inuit Lead Day #3 (Presented by EIPS)
April 30, 2026 - First Nation, Métis and Inuit Lead Day #3
The third First Nation, Métis and Inuit Lead Day will take place at the Strathcona Wilderness Centre. This professional learning session is designed to support EIPS Lead Teachers through foundational knowledge building and collaborative networking, with a portion of the day guided by an Indigenous knowledge holder. Attendees will spend the day deepening their understanding and co-ordinating Indigenous Education efforts for the remainder of this year while establishing a framework for the upcoming 2026–27 school year.
National Indigenous Peoples Month/Day
June is National Indigenous Peoples History Month and June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. In this session, the Alberta Professional Learning Consortium Teaching and Learning Team shares new activities that teach about, celebrate and honour Métis people and culture. Participants will learn about the diversity and uniqueness of Métis culture and traditions while examining authentic resources and activities that will support planning for National Indigenous Peoples Month.
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
EIPS Powwow
Elk Island Public Schools is thrilled to invite students, families and community members to a celebration of Indigenous culture and community. Come experience the vibrant traditions, music and dance at our upcoming powwow!
The afternoon will feature incredible performances by First Nations dancers from local communities, with the heartbeat of the event provided by the renowned Cree Confederation Drum Group and the Young Gunz Drum Group.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, May 23
Time: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: Lakeland Ridge, gymnasium; 101 Crimson Dr., Sherwood Park
Indigenous Family Night
Schools in the eastern portion of the Division—A.L. Horton Elementary, Mundare School and Vegreville Composite High—are thrilled to invite families and community members from across the region to a special evening of food, music, dancing and connection. This event is free to attend and everyone in the community is welcome!
Come enjoy:
Delicious soup and bannock
Captivating First Nations dancers
Métis fiddle and jigging performances
Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, May 5
Time: 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Location: Vegreville Composite High; 6426 55 Ave., Vegreville (enter through the gym doors)
Save the Date: Fort Family Night!
Mark your calendars! We're excited to announce the upcoming Fort Family Night is just around the corner, dedicated specifically to families with students attending EIPS schools in the Fort Saskatchewan area.
We're currently busy putting together a wonderful evening of connection and community. While we finalize the schedule of events and activities, save the date so you and your family can join in the fun!
Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, May 26
Time: 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Location: Fort Heritage Precinct; 10006 100 Ave., Fort Saskatchewan
Activities: Details coming soon!
Keep an eye on your inbox and upcoming newsletters for full event details, including what to expect and how to RSVP. We can't wait to share more with you soon!