This spring, Grade 6 students participated in a meaningful three-part learning experience that brought together creativity, mindfulness, and cultural understanding. Through drum making, painting, and a culminating awakening ceremony, students engaged deeply with Indigenous teachings—guided by knowledge holders and grounded in respect, intention, and connection to the land.

Drum Making

The journey began in early March with the opportunity to create a traditional Indigenous drum from sustainable, renewable materials—an experience offered to our Grade 6 students each year. Guided by an Indigenous Elder, Darren Charlie and his wife, Carmen, students learned not only how to assemble their drums but also about the traditions, symbolism, and relationships associated with them.

Throughout the process, students practiced patience and perseverance, approaching their work with care and intention. More than a hands-on activity, drum making became an opportunity to reflect on the connection between self, community, and the natural world. This concept was previously introduced to Grade 6 earlier in the year, where they had the opportunity to create their own territory acknowledgements, guided by Ms. Charlene Smoke, Meadowridge’s Indigenous Education Coordinator. Ms. Smoke led a class that encouraged students to explore their relationship with the land, consider their ancestry, and recognize the role of personal responsibility.

Painting and Personalization

With their drums assembled, students moved into the next phase: personalizing their instruments. During their Individuals & Societies classes at the end of March, they painted symbols and designs that held personal meaning.

This stage encouraged reflection and self-expression, as students considered how to represent their identities, values, and intentions through art. Following the guidance shared during their time making the drums with Darren Charlie, students carried forward the importance of working with positive energy and purpose, ensuring that each drum reflected both personal meaning and cultural respect.

Drum Awakening Ceremony

The experience culminated in a Drum Awakening Ceremony held at the campground firepit in our North Forest, led by Ms. Smoke. Gathered in a circle, students deepened their connection to the land, to one another, and to those who came before them.

Students were invited to consider the significance of the drum beyond its sound and view it as a living symbol of community and tradition.

Participating in the awakening of the drums marked an important moment in the students’ learning journey. It offered space to honour Indigenous teachings with care and respect, while recognizing the responsibility that comes with carrying these experiences forward.

Together, these three experiences created a powerful opportunity for students to learn not only with their hands, but with intention and awareness. Watching students engage with these teachings reinforces the importance of cultural understanding—and of the role students play in carrying knowledge forward with respect and care.