Happy Sunday, Samuel W. Shaw Families,
Indigenous Education: Learning from Knowledge Keeper Hal Eagletail in Grade 7
This week, our Grade 7 students had the incredible opportunity to learn from Knowledge Keeper Hal Eagletail, who visited our school on Monday and Tuesday. Hal Eagletail is member of the Northern Dene Tsuut’ina Nation, located in the Treaty 7 area of southern Alberta. Hal shared his deep knowledge of traditional Indigenous teachings, focusing on the use of plants for food and fibre. Through engaging stories and hands-on learning, Hal highlighted the importance of understanding and respecting the natural world, a perspective deeply rooted in Indigenous ways of knowing. Students explored how plants are not only essential for survival but also hold cultural and spiritual significance. This experience enriched our curriculum and offered valuable insights into the interconnectedness of ecosystems and human needs. We are so grateful for Hal’s wisdom and the meaningful connections he helped foster between traditional knowledge and our studies.
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 in the new Iikakimat Space at 11:30. All self-identified Indigenous students are welcome to join.
Volleyball Tryouts- Starting Monday, January 6!
Volleyball tryouts begin at 7:45AM the first day after Winter Break. Please see the schedule below:
Staff Parking Lot- Student Drop Off/Pick Up
Please avoid using the staff parking lot at the front of the school for student drop off in the morning, or pick up at the end of the day. The joy of ‘owning’ middle school-aged children, is that for the most part, they are able to independently get to school from a little further away, or to find you at the end of their days. Please choose a set meeting place that is not the staff parking lot.
Social Media Tips for Parents & Guardians
- Understand the Developmental Impact: Teens are at a stage where they’re forming their identities, making social media particularly influential. It can amplify insecurities by exposing them to unrealistic ideals or harmful trends. Encourage open discussions about how online content affects their self-esteem and teach them to critically evaluate what they see. For younger teens or pre-teens, delaying social media exposure can help build resilience and good habits before introducing these platforms.
From: Study International & Atrium Health
- Balance Privacy and Oversight: While respecting a teen’s privacy is important, parents should maintain regular conversations about online activity. Questions like "How do you feel after using this app?" or "What do you find challenging about social media?" can open dialogue. Establishing clear expectations about device use, safety, and consequences for misuse can foster trust and mutual understanding.
From: Scope
- Teach Intentional Usage: Help teens use social media mindfully by encouraging them to set boundaries—like limiting notifications, curating their feeds to focus on positive content, and taking breaks when needed. Research suggests that reducing screen time can lead to improved mental health and body image.
From: Atrium Health & Scope
- Model Healthy Behaviors: Parents' online habits significantly influence their teens. Setting family-wide guidelines for tech-free times (like during meals or before bed) and reducing your own scrolling can make a big difference.
From: Atrium Health
- Engage in Policy Awareness: Social media platforms are starting to incorporate safeguards like stricter privacy settings and age-appropriate content moderation. Staying informed about these changes and advocating for responsible design can empower families to use these tools effectively
From: Scope
- Address Loneliness and Connection: Social media has potential benefits, like creating connections for teens who may feel isolated. Encourage teens to use these platforms to build positive networks and find communities that affirm their interests and identities, and to seek support immediately if something doesn’t feel right. Strangers are rarely a good idea when seeking connection.
From: Scope
Calendar of Events
In this special final edition of the Weekly Update for the year, we have highlighted some of the diverse celebrations from the many cultures represented by the students who walk our halls. While we may have unintentionally missed a few, this reflects where we are on our ongoing journey of learning and growing together.
- December 16 - 20- Spirit Week!
- December 16 - Monochromatic Day
- December 17 - Ugly Holiday Sweater Day
- December 18 - Funky Socks and Birkenstocks Day
- December 19 - Matching Day
- December 20 - PJ/Comfy Day
- December 17 - Locker Clean out Day
- December 19 - Locker Clean out Day
- December 20 - Last Day before WINTER BREAK!; International Human Solidarity Day
- December 21 - Winter Solstice; Yule
- December 24 - Quviasukvik Festival begins
- December 25 - Christmas; Hanukkah begins
- December 26 - Kwanzaa
- January 1 - New Year’s Day
- January 6 - Classes resume; Volleyball Tryouts Begin!
Healthy Hunger Dates
- Jan 23 - The Lunch Lady
- Feb 27 - Coco Brooks
- March 19 - Subway
For those who celebrate, as the holiday season fast approaches, we acknowledge the beautiful diversity of traditions and festivities that bring joy and meaning to this special time of year. From our hearts to yours, we wish you a time of restoration and time filled with love, laughter, and reconnection. We want to express our heartfelt gratitude for the incredible support you bring to our school community.
Thank you for making Samuel W. Shaw School such a remarkable place to learn and grow. See you again in the New Year!
With warmth,
Bobbi, Shannon, & Kerry