First Nations, Métis, and Inuit

Fort Saskatchewan Elementary School resides on Treaty 6 Territory and Métis Nation of Alberta District 11.

Land and People Acknowledgment

We acknowledge with respect the history and culture of the peoples with whom Treaty 6 was entered into and the land upon which Elk Island Public Schools reside. We also acknowledge the traditional homeland of the Métis Nation.

We recognize our responsibility as Treaty members and honour the heritage and gifts of the First Peoples.

We commit to moving forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in a spirit of collaboration and reconciliation.

First Nations Treaties in Alberta:

Project of Heart

Project of Heart, 2023/24

Fort Saskatchewan Elementary School is working with Canadian Ojibway artist Ellie Lagrandeur on a school wide painting project. Our goal is to weave the 4 elements of Air/Eagle, Earth/Deer, Water/Beaver, and Fire/Wolf into a work of art that each student and staff member can contribute to; a work of art to tell the story of who we are. This will be a significant step toward continuing to understand our shared histories, our present relationship with land and others, and continue our learning for a better future for everyone who shares these lands.

Who is our Indigenous Education lead teacher?

Ms. Zapesocki is our Indigenous Education lead teacher. In this role, Ms. Zapesocki ensures staff have necessary resources to help support Indigenous foundational knowledge within the classroom. Alongside Ms. Grismer, Educational Assistant, our goal is to provide cultural and curricular support and help facilitate any other needed support for individuals/classes. The lead teacher helps to plan school wide recognition of days of significance and works to enhance the school community's understanding of the shared histories of these lands in our work toward reconciliation. We continue to learn about the 7 Sacred Teachings, the Circle of Courage, and how to engage in land-based learning.

Every Child Has a Heart

A massive thank you to Dreamcatchers Art & Gallery, for their generosity to FSE! Artist Ellie Lagrandeur created a stunning piece “Every Child Has a Heart”, that was loaned to FSE library and has now been returned.