Blackfoot Value of the Month

Kimmapiiypitsinni – Showing Compassion and Kindness

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

As we move through February, our students continue learning about Kimmapiiypitsinni, the Blackfoot value of compassion and kindness. In Blackfoot teachings, we are reminded that kindness is not only something we say—it is something we live through our actions each day. When we walk gently with one another and care for our relationships, we strengthen our whole community.

Short Week Reminder

Please note that this is a short week.
There will be no school on Monday, February 16, in recognition of Family Day. We hope you enjoy time together with loved ones.

Attendance Matters

Regular attendance is an important part of supporting your child’s success. Being at school consistently helps students:

  • Build strong relationships
  • Develop a sense of belonging
  • Feel confident in classroom routines and learning expectations

A traditional Blackfoot teaching reminds us that we are strongest when we move forward together—learning, sharing, and growing side by side. Each day your child is present, they both contribute to and benefit from that shared strength.

Learning From the Land

Our Learning From the Land (LFL) experiences are ongoing and remain an important part of learning at Piitoayis Family School.

During select sessions, we continue our partnership with Spirit North, which supports culturally grounded, land-based movement and wellness activities aligned with our holistic approach to education.

Through Walk-Alongs, students learn to slow down, use their senses, and listen to the teachings of Na’a (Mother Earth). These experiences support:

  • Observation skills
  • Self-regulation
  • Relationship-building with peers and the land

Upcoming Learning From the Land Experiences

  • Classes learning with Spirit North will explore the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary:
    Activities include guided walks, exploration of indoor displays, learning on the trails, and visits to the TD Outdoor Education Building, including discussions about air quality.
    • Tuesday: Harleen (Grade 5/6)
    • Wednesday: Karina (Grade 3/4)
    • Thursday: Kelsey (Grade 3/4)
  • Friday: Kindergarten students will participate in Wildlands exploration, which may include shelter building, animal tracking, and bird watching.

Please watch for communication from your child’s homeroom teacher with specific dates for land-based learning.

Weather Note

If snowfall occurs as expected, some Learning From the Land or Spirit North sessions may transition to cross-country skiing.

Please ensure your child comes to school dressed for full outdoor winter conditions, as plans may adapt based on weather and land conditions.

Physical Education

Our Curling Unit continues for all grade levels until February 20.

Please continue to ensure your child is dressed appropriately for both outdoor learning and physical activity. Proper clothing helps keep students safe, comfortable, and fully able to participate.

Appreciation

Thank you for your ongoing partnership in nurturing a school community that is safe, caring, welcoming, and respectful. When we work together—home and school—we model Kimmapiiypitsinni for our children in meaningful ways.

Hand to Heart,
Crystal Fox and Shauna Penner
Principal and Assistant Principal

Reminders

School Hours

  • Monday–Thursday: 8:48 AM – 3:22 PM
  • Friday: 8:48 AM – 12:30 PM

Office Hours

  • Monday–Thursday: 8:15 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Friday: 8:15 AM – 1:00 PM

If you are picking up your child instead of them riding the bus, please notify the school:

  • By 2:00 PM (Monday–Thursday)
  • By 11:00 AM (Friday)

Piitoayis Family School is unable to make last-minute changes to bus arrangements.

Bus Information for Families

Families are asked to:

  • Notify the school by 2:00 PM if picking up students
  • Update stop or address changes promptly in MyCBE
  • Report bussing issues to the bus company and/or CBE Transportation at 403-817-7433
  • Arrive at the bus stop 5 minutes early
  • Review bus safety rules with children

Transportation Contacts

First Student (Buses C, G, H, J)

Dreams Transportation (Buses A, B, D, E, F, I)

  • Phone: 403-590-7433

CBE Transportation

Transportation Concerns

  • Driver concerns: Contact the bus company
  • Route timing, delays, or missed stops: Contact CBE Transportation
  • Student conduct or behaviour on the bus: Contact the school

Access to Student Information

Parents can access report cards, student information, and fees through MyCBE.

Instructions for setting up a Parent MyCBE account: Click Here