Blackfoot Value of the Month: Kakyosin – Showing Respect, Being Aware & Observant

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

Welcome Spring! 

As we enter the month of April and the season of Spring, we are reminded of renewal, growth, and new beginnings. In Blackfoot teachings, this time of year is connected to stories of awakening on the land. One such teaching shares how, after a long winter, the animals and plants return, guided by the warming sun, restoring balance and life to the Earth. The Beaver Bundle teachings, often shared in the spring, remind us of the importance of balance, respect, and caring for the land and one another. 

This season also connects to the value of Atsiimoyihkaan – “I can embrace Spirituality,” which invites us to slow down, reflect, and nurture our relationships with the land, ourselves, and each other. As we move through this time—alongside the themes of reflection and renewal connected to Easter—we encourage families to spend time outdoors, notice the changes of the season, and celebrate the new life all around us. 

Planning for the 2026–2027 School Year 

As we begin planning for the 2026–2027 school year, we greatly value your voice and feedback. Your perspectives support our organizational planning and help ensure the thoughtful allocation of resources and services for all students. 

At Piitoayis Family School, we are guided by Blackfoot ways of knowing and being. Our work is grounded in the values of Kimmapiiypitsinni—I can show compassion and kindness in action; Kakyosin—I can be aware of my environment and be observant; Aatsimmoiyihkanni—I can engage in spirituality and ceremony; Aksistoiypaittapiisinni—I can take on tasks independently; and Mookakiit Iikakiimaat—I can persevere and try hard. These values guide how we learn, grow, and support one another as a community. 

Your voice helps strengthen our relationships and ensures we meet the academic, social, emotional, and cultural needs of every child. We remain committed to strong literacy and numeracy instruction, high expectations for learning, and providing targeted supports so that each student can grow and experience success. Grounded in our connection to the land and a holistic approach to learning, we strive to nurture the whole child—mind, body, heart, and spirit—within a caring and connected community. 

We invite you to share insights about your child’s strengths, needs, interests, and your hopes for the upcoming school year. Please use the link below to provide your feedback. 

Kindly complete the survey by April 13. Your input will directly inform our planning as we continue building a holistic learning environment together. 

Piitoayis Family School Planning for 2026-2027 – Fill out form 

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 (winter jacket, snow pants, mitts/gloves, hat, and boots).  

Learning From the Land (LFL) – Seasonal Changes and Evidence of Animals  

• Monday: Kelsey (Grades 3 & 4A)  
• Tuesday: Lindsay (Grades 3 & 4B)  
• Friday: Harleen (Grades 5 & 6B)  

Spirit North – Focus: Outdoor Survival Skills and/or Cross-Country Skiing  

• Wednesday: Karina (Grades 3 & 4C)  
• Thursday: Prabh (Grades 5 & 6A)  

Physical Education: 

Focus: Outdoor Games: Basketball, Four-Square, and Jump Rope.  
Please ensure that students are dressed appropriately for outdoor games.  

Weather Note  

In the case of inclement weather, outdoor learning sessions will shift to indoor activities, so students will also need to have proper running shoes and comfortable clothing for active participation in the inside activities.