Happy Sunday, Samuel W. Shaw Families,
Indigenous Education at Samuel W. Shaw: Grade 9 Métis Rights
Last week in Social 9, we explored how legislation and government have impacted Collective Rights in Canada, with a focus on Linguistic, Indigenous, and Métis Rights. A key figure in our discussions was Louis Riel, whose legacy continues to generate meaningful conversations in Canadian history and identity. His story provided students with a powerful entry point into understanding the complexities of rights, resistance, and representation. Before diving into a mini debate, students received an introductory lesson on who Louis Riel was and what he fought for. We examined his identity, leadership, and the significant contributions he made in advocating for the rights of the Métis people in Canada. This foundation helped students understand the broader historical context of his trial and the controversies that surrounded it.
In small groups, students analyzed primary source testimonies related to medical opinions on Louis Riel’s mental state during his 1885 trial. These documents were thoughtfully curated and adapted for accessibility, giving students the opportunity to think critically about how perspectives on sanity, justice, and leadership may have influenced historical outcomes. In this picture, we can see our students working directly with statements made by Louis Riel himself, offering a unique opportunity to interpret his own words. This hands-on engagement allowed students to connect with Riel’s thoughts, values, and motivations on a deeper level and to consider how his voice still echoes in discussions of rights and identity today.
Smudge with Ms. Kerry
In an on-going effort to provide a culturally safe space for Indigenous learners, Ms. Kerry (Lax Kw’Alaams First Nation) provides Smudge for Indigenous students every Friday. We meet at 11:30. All self-identified Indigenous students are welcome to join.
Spring Formal Dance/Neon Party - April 17
The neon party, Spring Formal was a BIG BRIGHT HIT! By the end, we saw dance moves like we’ve never seen before, kids full of treats, and more neon than an 80s teen movie. Good times were had by all. A shout out to SWS Leadership students, and all the teachers, all of whom made this day possible!
Join Us for Samuel W. Shaw School's Exciting May 1 Open House!
At Samuel W. Shaw School (SWS), we are incredibly proud of the vibrant, supportive, and dynamic learning environment we’ve cultivated for our students. Our May 1 Open House is a celebration of the hard work, dedication, and incredible achievements happening every day at our school. This is an event you won't want to miss!
Why You Should Join Us on May 1:
Explore the energy, rigor, and creativity that define learning at SWS! In the evening, the school truly comes to life with opportunities to:
- Watch a Spring Concert featuring our Grade 7–9 Bands and the SWS Choir beginning at 6PM
- Enjoy self-guided tours of our dynamic learning spaces—including classrooms, Phys Ed, CTF, which is comprised of Drama, Construction, Foods, Design, and Music with Storm Leadership students on hand to point you in the right direction
- Visit the Storm Store, where our Band Parent Council will be selling treats to support the music program
- Grab Storm swag from SWS Athletics
- Connect with teachers, staff, and other families to learn about programs and student supports across all grades
- Dine at YYC Food Trucks parked along Shawinigan Drive for a relaxed, festive vibe.
We are proud of our amazing school and cannot wait to see you at our Open House!
No School Monday, April 21 - PD Day for Staff
We hope you have a wonderful long weekend, and if you celebrate, Happy Easter.
Scholastic Book Fair is Coming to Sam Shaw!
Get ready! The Scholastic Book Fair is coming to Samuel W. Shaw!
If you’re available to lend a hand at this event and have a current CBE security clearance, please contact Ms.Trish at paspurrell@cbe.ab.ca. Not sure you’ve got current clearance? Please contact the main office. Times and dates that volunteers are needed are:
- May 8- Setting up 10:30am-1:00pm,
- May 12 ,13 ,14 , 10:00-1:40pm or 2:00pm-3:30pm.
Visit the Scholastic Book Fair website to look through the digital flyer:
Social Media Awareness: Burner Phones, Hidden Online Access, and Potential Dangers
More and more, schools and families are noticing a rise in the use of burner phones — inexpensive, prepaid devices that youth may use without their caregivers' knowledge. These phones, often purchased at convenience stores or online, can provide unmonitored access to apps like Snapchat, Instagram, and messaging platforms even if a student’s primary device has restrictions. Youth can also use old iPods, tablets, or second-hand smartphones connected to Wi-Fi to access these apps without a cellular plan. Even when families believe they have secured a child’s main device, a hidden second device can make monitoring challenging. According to Cybertip.ca, Canada’s tipline for reporting online exploitation, hidden online activity is one of the key warning signs for risky behaviours. Parents should watch for signs like a child being unusually protective of a device, sudden shifts in online habits, or unexplained access to social media apps. The Canadian Centre for Child Protection also offers excellent resources for families about managing technology use and having ongoing conversations about digital safety. Staying aware, connected, and curious about your child's digital world is one of the best ways to keep them safe.
Cobbs Bread
Cobbs Bread Love bread? Us too! Mention Samuel W. Shaw school at the Shawnessy Cobbs and our school receives a portion of proceeds! Win, win!!
Calendar of Events
*Please note that all events outside of school hours IN CBE buildings may be impacted due to the strike. These are noted with *
- April 21- Non-instructional day- NO SCHOOL
- April 22- Earth Day; Grade 6 Zoo Field Trip
- April 24- Grade 7 Band to Bridlewood School
- April 28- ½ Grade 5s (Steinfeld & Jorgensen) to Military Museum
- April 30- ½ Grade 5 to Military Museum (Bjartveit & Hayward)
- May 1- Feeder School Tours (welcoming Janet Johnstone and Somerset, then Bridlewood Schools); ; Open House 5:30-7:30. YYC FoodTrucks on site for purchase.
- May 12-15- Scholastic Book Fair
Healthy Hunger Dates
- April 24- Edo
- May 22- A&W
With warmth,
Bobbi, Shannon, & Kerry