The North Battleford Comprehensive High School was in positive spirits last week as it hosted A Day of Reconciliation.
Krista Gubbe, First Nation, Métis and Inuit graduation coach, runs a program called Gateway to Success. Gubbe said A Day of Reconciliation was aimed at celebrating students and building an inclusive school culture.
"Our goal should be for every adult to have a high rate of positive interactions and show interest in the lives and activities of the kids and the goals and struggles of our students," Gubbe said.
A Day of Reconciliation featured students from Grades 7 to 10 participating in different activities. Sessions included dancing, hand games, storytelling, drumming and elder teachings.
Elder Judy Bear began and closed the events with prayers, and local lawyer Eleanore Sunchild, who has worked on many residential school claims, gave a talk in the morning.
A Day of Reconciliation also featured performances by Creeland Dancers, Métis music, Lawrence Roy, Elmer Tootoosis and Living Sky students.
"This day was made to build relationships with our kids and create a positive school culture where we continue the journey of reconciliation," Gubbe said.
Gubbe said reconciliation is about telling the truth, communication and good relationships.
"I don't want there to be a divide," Gubbe said. "I want there to be a bringing together [in which] the adults in the building understand where our students are coming from, and the students getting to know their classmates sitting beside them."
