Acknowledgement

We join with the Calgary Board of Education to acknowledge the land and the Indigenous peoples of the region:

We would like to acknowledge the traditional territories and oral practices of the Blackfoot Nations, which includes the Siksika, the Piikani, and the Kainai.  We also acknowledge the Tsuut’ina and Stoney Nakoda First Nations, the Metis Nation (Region 3), and all peoples who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.

Our Story

Piitoayis Family School was established in 2002.  We are a kindergarten through Grade 6 program of choice, as we teach the Alberta Programs of Study through an Indigenous lens.  Our name translates into “Eagle Lodge” in the Blackfoot language. We were gifted our name by five Elders: Mark Wolfleg (Siksika), Russell Big Crow (Tsuut’ina), Freddy Eagletail (Tsuut’ina), Olive Manitopyes (Cree Nation), and John Snow (Stoney Nakoda).  Our name recognizes the spiritual significance of the “eagle” as a symbol of love, and “lodge” as a gathering place. Our learners learn through a diversity of First Nations, Metis, and Inuit ways of knowing, being, and doing.

Mission Statement

We will emphasize four core Blackfoot values and belief systems:  

• Aatsimmoiyihkanni:  spirituality and ceremony

• Kimmapiiypitsinni:  kindness to others

• Kakyosin:  being aware of your environment; being observant

• Aksistoiypaittapiisinni:  being able to take on task independently

Vision Statement

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