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First Nations Language and Culture Programs at FRES

Currently, over 50% of the school’s student population is of Aboriginal Ancestry and are members of various First Nations in the area; the Kwakiutl being the most prominent. All students in the school participate in the Kwak’wala Language and Cultural Program instructed by Harold Nelson, ‘Sisaxolas’, where they have the opportunity to learn some Kwak’wala Language and also about the history and traditions of the Kwakwaka’wakw peoples (people who speak Kwak’wala). This year, the program is a highlight for many students who excel in studying traditional art forms, singing, dancing, blanket making and Kwak’wala language. In addition, the team from Fort Rupert Elementary School are reigning champions of last year’s regional tournament, focussed on a traditional guessing game known as ‘Lahal’ or ‘Alaxwa’ (the looking game). Each class receives between 60 - 90 minutes of instructional time each week in the cultural program and a large celebration is held each year to acknowledge the awareness and understanding demonstrated by our students in the cultural program.