Laggan Public School recently planted five maple trees donated by Brenda and Jeff Barton. The trees were planted on school property as part of a new experiential learning project proposed by Kindergarten teacher Bonnie MacLeod that will take place at the school called “Sap to Syrup.” Students will witness the changes of maple trees throughout the seasons and learn about the importance of the environment, Mother Earth and maple trees in Indigenous cultures. Eventually, students will be able to tap the trees and go through the syrup process together.
On Friday, May 28, Métis Cultural Advisor Candace Lloyd visited the school to do a traditional blessing of the trees and a land acknowledgement.
As a thank you, the school presented Lloyd with a traditional offering of tobacco and a gift that was handmade by students. The school will continue to work with Lloyd for more teachings with students in the future.
“We are excited to begin this school-wide experiential learning project that pulls from both environmental and Indigenous education,” says Principal Nichola Bond. “The tree blessing event signifies our continued commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, our long-lasting partnership with our cultural advisors and learning more about the First Nations, Métis and Inuit history and culture.”