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Dear Hillhurst Families,
“Gratitude is the inward feeling of kindness received.  Thankfulness is the natural impulse to express that feeling.  Thanksgiving is the following of that impulse."  Henry Van Dyke
I hope that everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving, some good food, fresh air and some laughs. As we enter into fall, students and teachers are well into life at school. It is my hope that you find the weekly updates from myself as well as your child's teacher helpful to all that is going on.  I am delighted to have the vibrancy of parents back in the building, and we are grateful for the time and support you are able to give.
Friday, October 7th was a System Professional Learning Day related to Indigenous education for all of our staff, as it was throughout the Calgary Board of Education.  The day was named, 'Maatoomsii Pookaiks', which means 'Children First'. As part of our day, we watched a keynote video from Dr. James Makokis. He taught us all a great deal about Residential Schools and the history of what we now call Canada. This is an important part of the unlearning and learning that is part of Reconciliation.  It is not easy to learn more about the truth of how Indigenous Peoples were treated – however, it is a crucial step in having a better understanding in order to move forward.
As part of our school's Truth and Reconciliation Call to Action, students and teachers have been intentional about going outside and learning, 'on the land'.  Classes have spent time observing the land, identifying sit spots, learning the names of plants, and appreciating the sights and sounds around them. This work has been ongoing and will continue throughout the school year.
We look forward to seeing everyone on November 24th and 25th for Learning Conferences and sharing at that time, all the wonderful work of your children with you.
 
​ Karen Pope
Principal, Hillhurst School