We serve a diverse group of Aboriginal students and practice cultural ceremonies where appropriate. We offer Blackfoot and Cree Language classes as well as drumming, singing, dancing and cultural arts.  We have Elders in our school on a regular basis to provide students with traditional wisdom and stories. We also feature school-wide artist-in-residence programs every year.

Our students can access our free breakfast funded by the Calgary Boys & Girls Club.  We also offer a nutritional lunch program supported by a generous grant from EducationMatters.

Family members are always welcome to join us for assemblies and celebration feasts. Parents are encouraged to volunteer and to  participate in our Parent Pillar Advisory Council which includes Aboriginal parents from all over the city.

Our school features spacious classrooms with abundant light, a full-sized gymnasium with stage, and six acres of school grounds.

Background

In September 2001, the system principal of Aboriginal Education consulted extensively with the Calgary Aboriginal community to determine how the CBE could further meet the learning needs of the Aboriginal community. The community consultations recommended:

• a strong academic component.
• a balance of culture and language.
• access to technology within a quality environment.
• a family/community setting.

The Piitoayis Family School is a Kindergarten to Grade 6 school with Blackfoot and Cree languages offered. Cultural cultural opportunities in Drumming, Singing and Traditional Native Arts are provided. The school is open to all students who want an Aboriginal-based education. Historically and traditionally, we are situated in Blackfoot territory, therefore, we recognize and respect this by having a Blackfoot name. Piitoayis translates into “ Eagle Lodge.” The reason for choosing this particular name is due to the significance of the eagle to most Aboriginal people; it shows we serve a wide range of Aboriginal peoples. The second part, “ lodge”, recognizes the school as a gathering place for families, ceremonies and prayers, therefore, Eagle Lodge Family School.

School Mission

At Piitoayis Family School we will strive to honour the Seven Sacred Teachings of our ancestors: wisdom, love, respect, bravery, honesty, humility and truth.

Vision Statement

To create a respectful learning environment based on the balance of traditional cultural values and academic excellence. This holistic and meaningful approach will enhance pride and self-esteem, enabling our students to become successful, responsible lifelong learners.

Family Component - Circle of Life

• Vital to success of family school concept
• Access to school for parents and families
• Programming for the youth
• Parent programs
• Presence of Elders
• Ceremonies

Goals

• Increase knowledge and practice of Aboriginal cultures.
• Promote and support the importance of education to families and students.
• Empower families through Aboriginal content and culture.
• Balance education and culture through a whole-person/whole-family approach.

The program includes:

• Community and agency involvement.
• Programming for parents and families.

Program grades

Full-day kindergarten and Grades 1 to 6 are offered at our school.

Piitoayis Family School is especially suited for students who:

• demonstrate an interest in learning through Aboriginal cultures, languages, protocols and ceremonies

Students will learn the Alberta Learning Programs of Study through "the lens of First Nations, Métis and Inuit perspectives and experiences." This means that, when feasible and possible, Aboriginal knowledge will inform and guide the learning process. For example, as part of our Physical Education program, students will learn how to pow wow dance, which will also include learning about the history of Aboriginal dance and the protocols and ceremonies to ensure a holistic understanding.