The Edmonton Public Schools announced the renaming of the Prince Charles School to Awâsis Waciston School (Cree for Child’s Nest). All students attending the school are enrolled in the Awâsis program, which provides Cree language and culture teachings.
Through the program, students have opportunities to learn about Indigenous culture by taking part in seasonal feasts led by Elders, pipe ceremonies, Indigenous games, traditional and Métis dance, fiddle and art.
Julie Kusiek, Board Chair with Edmonton Public Schools spoke with CFWE about the name change and adds that the board feels wonderful to be able to walk alongside community in honoring the culture that Indigenous languages bring to Edmonton.
Julie Kusiek, Board Chair with Edmonton Public Schools (Photo Credits – Daniel Barker-Tremblay)
Since the announcement of the name change, the overall response has felt good adds Kusiek. Saying that renaming the school is a way of celebration of long standing program at the school called Awâsis program, focusing on Cree language, culture with it being Edmonton’s longest running language programs within the city.
Kusiek goes on to say that for the students attending Awâsis Waciston School, it’s a great celebration of their learning everyday within community and in Edmonton Public Schools.
