Niitsitapi Learning Centre Greeting Wall

Designed by Cree Architect Wanda Della Costa, when entering the school, we are welcoming you into our Moyis (home), and the first thing one sees is our Greeting Wall. Designed with a Blackfoot tipi in mind you see the rolling foothills on the bottom, the constellations at the top, and our school logo, the eagle's view of our building in the middle. 

The writing throughout the greeting wall showcases 68 Indigenous languages from across Canada, including English and French. Acknowledging the first languages of this land, and the diverse Indigenous languages that our population may identify with. Our hope is that all First Nation, Métis and Inuit families, students and visitors feel safe, welcomed and seen when entering our space of learning for all. 

Language Perference

When registering at Niitsitapi Learning Centre, parents are asked their Indigenous language of choice. We value the voice of families, and welcome ancestrial values and knowledge and welcome conversations to extend our knowledge.  Children are greeted in the morning by their Indigenous language, and during ceremony and sharing circles we encourage children to learn and share their own introductions. We want our Indigenous learners to appreciate the diversity of cultures and languages that exist within our building and across turtle island, while also developing a strong sense of Indigenous pride that we hope our programming nurtures.  

Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers

We are very lucky to provide opportunities for students and staff to learn and practice Indigenous languages.  Our school population, where our families are from, and the traditional languages commonly spoken on this territory determine language selection. All students are welcomed to honour their family values and traditions, by speaking the language that supports their Indigenous Identity. 

Fluent speaking Elders and Knowledge Keepers have supported our learning in language and traditional ways of knowing and being. Throughout the years, Blackfoot, Cree, , Stoney Nakoda, Tsuut'ina, and Métis Elders and Knowledge Keepers have supported our learning. 

Learning Apps for IPads

Blackfoot language dialect from Piikani First Nation.  

 Blackfoot language dialect from Siksika First Nation.

 Cree language from Samson Cree First Nation.

 Dene language from Tsuu T'ina First Nation.

 Stoney Nakoda language from the Stoney Education Authority. 

Here are some of the lessons we have learned so far for you to practice alongside us at home.