Blackfoot Value of the Month: Aatsimoyihkaanni - I can embrace spirituality 

Oki, Dadánast’áda, Âba Wathtec, Tânisi, Taanishi, Bonjour, Hello Families, 

Blackfoot Value of the Month

As we begin the school year, we will be learning about and reflecting on Aatsimoyihkaanni – I can embrace spirituality. This value reminds us of the importance of spirituality, connection, gratitude, ceremony, and caring for ourselves, one another, the land, and all living things.

Traditional Blackfoot teachings remind us that we are connected to something larger than ourselves and that our relationships—with people, the land, animals, plants, and all of Creation—carry responsibilities. Stories of Napi (Old Man) often teach through experience, reminding us to listen, reflect, learn from our choices, and recognize how our actions affect those around us.

Throughout the month, students will explore what Aatsimoyihkaanni can look, sound, and feel like in their daily lives at school and within the community. This may include showing gratitude, caring for others, participating respectfully in ceremony, spending time on the land, listening to Elders and Knowledge Keepers, and recognizing the people and places that help us feel connected and grounded.

Ongoing PFS Attendance Protocols

At PFS, attendance is about relationship, belonging, and shared responsibility—not compliance or punishment. How we connect with families when students are away helps build trust, strengthen relationships, and support long-term engagement with school.

As in previous years, families can expect a phone call or email from their child’s teacher when a student has missed two or more days of school during the week. These check-ins are intended to help us stay connected, understand what may be happening, and identify ways we can support your child or family when needed.

We know there are many reasons why students may miss school, including illness, appointments, transportation difficulties, family responsibilities, and other circumstances. We encourage families to keep us informed so that we can work together.

For us, attendance is also about making sure every child knows that when they are not at school, they are noticed, they are cared about, and they are missed.

Picking Up Your Child After School

If you are planning to pick your child up rather than have them take the bus, please contact the front office before 2:00 PM; this gives staff enough time to communicate the change and ensure your child is waiting at the appropriate pick-up location.

Reminder: Families picking up students need to check in with Ms. Amber or Ms. Tash to confirm that their child has been picked up. This important procedure helps us ensure that every student leaves safely with the correct adult.

If someone other than a parent or an approved pick-up designate will be collecting your child, please call the office ahead of time to update us. Providing this information in advance helps prevent confusion and unnecessary delays at dismissal.

Thank you for helping us keep dismissal safe, organized, and smooth for all of our students and families.

Hand to Heart,

Crystal Fox and Shauna Penner Principal & Assistant Principal

Coming Events and Important Dates

See our School Calendar for all upcoming events.