Blackfoot Value of the Month: Atsiimoyihkaan – I can embrace Spirituality

Oki, Dadánastáda, Âba Wathtec, Tânisi, Taanishi, Bonjour, Hello Families,

Welcome Spring! 

As the days grow longer and the warmth of the sun begins to return, we are excited to welcome the arrival of spring—a season of renewal, growth, and connection to the land. With melting snow, budding plants, and the return of birds, this is a special time to notice and appreciate the changes happening all around us.

On April 22, we recognize Earth Day, a global event that began in 1970 to raise awareness about caring for the environment and protecting our planet for future generations. It is a time for all of us to reflect on how our actions impact the land, water, air, and all living things, and to consider the small and meaningful ways we can show care and responsibility for the Earth. To celebrate, students and staff are encouraged to wear green or blue on Wednesday as a symbol of our connection to the land and water.

In Blackfoot teachings, spring is a time of awakening and renewal, when all living things begin again. Stories shared by Elders remind us that the land is not just a place we live, but a relative we are in relationship with. As the plants return and animals re-emerge, we are encouraged to practice Kakyosin—to be aware and observant of our surroundings—and to give thanks for the gifts the land provides. This season invites us to slow down, notice the beauty around us, and take steps, big or small, to care for our world with kindness and respect.

Dance Residency

A heartfelt thank you to DanceEd for an incredible week of learning and celebration. Our students had a wonderful opportunity to explore dances from different decades, building both their skills and confidence as they learned new choreography. It was truly special to see their excitement and pride as they shared their performances with families and special guests.

We are also grateful to everyone who joined us for the showcase performance and the Family Round Dance to close the week. Thank you to Mountain Soul Juniorz for drumming for our Round Dance. Your presence helped create a meaningful sense of connection and community, making this experience even more memorable for our students. 

Upcoming Opportunities

We are pleased to share an opportunity for parents and caregivers to participate in a series of online learning sessions through Community of Education Services. These three sessions offer valuable information and insights on supporting children and youth with a range of learning, emotional, and behavioural needs. Join other parents and caregivers for a time of learning and networking—lunch will be provided.

**Clarification: These sessions will be viewed together in the PFS Family Room, during which lunch will be provided for parents and caregivers to enjoy together.**

Following each session, Ms. Marcy, our Indigenous Education Support Worker, will host a guided discussion to:

• break down key concepts into practical, everyday strategies
• explore how to apply learning at home
• answer questions and problem-solve together
• provide a supportive space to connect with other families

Please see session details below. If you are interested or would like more information, please reach out. 

SESSION 1: April 23, 2026 | 12:00–1:30 PM

The Effects of Screen Time and Social Media on Children’s Development & Mental Health

Presented by Cheryl Gilbert MacLeod, Ph.D., R. Psych (The Family Psychology Place)

• This session explores how screens and social media can impact children’s development and mental health, including anxiety, sleep, and self-esteem. Families will learn strategies for setting healthy boundaries, encouraging open conversations, modelling balanced digital habits, and fostering well-being.

**Please reply by April 20, 2026 to confirm attendance 

SESSION 2: April 29 | 1:00–3:00 PM

ADHD Essentials for Parents
Presented by Tanya Keto (MEd), Registered Psychologist

• This session provides an overview of ADHD, including diagnosis, brain-based differences, and executive functioning. Participants will explore practical strategies to support attention, behaviour, and success at home and school.

**Please reply by April 23, 2026 to confirm attendance 

SESSION 3: May 5, 2026 | 2:30–4:00 PM

Supporting Self-Care & Hygiene in Neurodivergent Youth (Ages 10–14)
Presented by Azra Karmali-Moloo, R. Psych. (The Family Psychology Place)

• This session explores barriers neurodivergent youth may face with self-care routines. Caregivers will learn strategies to reduce conflict, build independence, and support motivation, routines, and daily living skills.

**Please reply by April 27, 2026 to confirm attendance 

Learning From the Land & Spirit North

Our Learning from the Land (LFL) experiences are ongoing and continue to be an important part of learning at Piitoayis Family School. Students also have opportunities to learn with Spirit North, who support culturally grounded, land-based movement and wellness activities aligned with our holistic approach to education.

Please ensure students are dressed appropriately for outdoor learning.

Learning From the Land (LFL) – Inglewood Bird Sanctuary: Returning of the Birds

Monday: Mr. Isaac (Gr 1 & 2)

Tuesday: Ms. Melanie (Kindergarten)

Spirit North – Focus: Traditional Indigenous Outdoor Games: Double Ball

Wednesday: Ms. Kelsey (Grades 3 & 4)

Thursday: Ms. Harleen (Grades 5 & 6)

Physical Education – Focus: Volleyball skills.

Please wear safe shoes for PE activities.

Reminders

School Hours: Mon-Thurs: 8:48 am - 3:22 pm, Friday 8:48 am- 12:30 pm

Office Hours: Mon-Thurs: 8:15 – 4:00pm, Friday 8:15 – 1:00 pm

If you are picking up your child, instead of him/her going on the bus, you must let us know by 2:00 pm Monday-Thursday & 11:00 am Friday. PFS is NOT able to make last minute changes to bus boards.

Bus Information: What can families do?

• If you are picking up students, let the school know by 2 pm
• Update changes to stops or addresses on MyCBE account ASAP
• Report any issues with bussing to the bus company and/or CBE Transportation, 403-817-7433
• Arrive at bus stop 5 minutes before your scheduled time
• Review bus safety rules with your children

Contact Information:

• First Student (Buses C, G, H, J): 403-531-3900; https://firstfeedback.com/
• First Student Bus App: School Code is O7A9Z
• • Google: Google/Android Phones
  • Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/firstview-1-0/id6477656451
• Dreams Transportation (Buses A, B, D, E, F, I): 403-590-7433
• CBE Transportation: 1-403-817-7433; transportation@cbe.ab.ca

Transportation Concerns and Issues:

• If you need to report a concern, please follow this procedure:
• Driver Concern: Contact the Bus Company (phone numbers above)
• Route Timing, Delays, Missed Stop: Contact CBE Transportation, transportation@cbe.ab.ca
• Student Conduct or Behaviour on the Bus: Call the School

Access to Report Cards, Student Information, Fees:

Instructions for Parent MyCBE account: Click Here

Coming Events and Important Dates

See our School Calendar for all upcoming events.

This Week