A day of Indigenous Learning and connection at St. Paul CES in Norwood

April 16, 2026

This past Tuesday (April 14, 2026), the halls and grounds of St. Paul Catholic Elementary School in Norwood were filled with the spirit of community and connection as students and staff participated in a meaningful Indigenous Awareness Day. 

Moving beyond a presentation, the day was designed by the school’s Indigenous Education committee to be a true immersion into culture, teachings, and active learning. 

With the invaluable support of the PVNC Catholic Indigenous Team, the Cultural Awareness team from Curve Lake First Nation, and Camp Kawartha, the event brought local Indigenous voices and Elder perspectives directly to the students, bringing every lesson to life with authenticity and heart.

“The students were very engaged and had a blast. They left school today asking if we could do this again next year!  That’s the hope, said Jennifer Wright, Principal. “We really want students to appreciate the beautiful culture and learn from it. It’s something that we can do to help take steps towards Truth and Reconciliation.”

Throughout the day, students moved through various stations alongside their learning buddies, engaging in a wide array of hands-on experiences. 

The air was filled with the sounds of drumming and singing, while the quiet power of storytelling captivated listeners of all ages. 

Students explored an augmented reality map of the Great Lakes, played outdoor land-based learning games, and contributed to a collaborative Earth Day mural. 

A highlight for many was the snack of wild rice, berries, and syrup. 

Creative energy was also high as students crafted birdseed shakers, which would later play a starring role in the day’s conclusion.

The event culminated in a powerful closing ceremony that united the entire school population in the gymnasium. 

In a moving display of harmony, staff led the way with large hand drums while students joined in with their handmade shakers to perform the Water Song.