Walking Together: Celebrating the collaboration between NWSD and Flying Dust First Nation

Over the past two years, a powerful and meaningful partnership has taken root in our school communities - one that is grounded in trust, learning, and reconciliation.

Through the Invitational Shared Services Initiative (ISSI), Northwest School Division and Flying Dust First Nation have come together to support Indigenous student success and enrich learning experiences for all students. With a shared focus on land, language, relationships, and culture, this partnership is more than a project - it’s a journey.

Supporting Student Transitions

One of the core goals of the ISSI partnership is to support Grade 8 students transitioning to high school. Many students from Flying Dust and Meadow Lake schools move into Carpenter High School - a big step in their educational journey. Through regular gatherings, school visits, and cultural teachings, students are given the tools and confidence to succeed.

Guided by Culture and Community

Central to the success of this initiative is Lisa Buffin, Indigenous Cultural Teacher, whose leadership and dedication have been instrumental in coordinating efforts between NWSD and Flying Dust First Nation. Lisa has played a key role in organizing our Land, Language, Relationship, and Culture (LLRC) teachings, bringing together students, staff, and community members for meaningful, culturally grounded experiences.

Whether it’s dancing at a round dance, listening to Métis stories, or learning on the land, each gathering helps students connect with their identity and build strong relationships with others in their community.

Each lesson follows a guiding theme - such as hope, kinship, courage, or gratitude - rooted in cultural values and traditional teachings that are shared by Elders and Knowledge Keepers.

The initiative is also a direct response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action - particularly those related to language revitalization, curriculum development, and creating inclusive learning environments.

A Collective Effort

This partnership would not be possible without the incredible contributions of so many people. We want to extend our sincere thanks to:

• Elders and Knowledge Keepers who guide our learning,
• Teachers and school staff who support students every day,
• Community members who attend gatherings and share their stories and experiences,
• And most importantly, our students, whose voices, growth, and engagement inspire this work.

We are also deeply grateful to the leadership teams from both Northwest School Division and Flying Dust First Nation, who have supported this partnership and ensured it continues to grow.

Looking Ahead

As the partnership moves into its third year in 2025–2026, the focus will remain on empowering students, amplifying Indigenous voices, and creating learning experiences that reflect the richness of First Nations and Métis cultures.

This is the work of reconciliation - and we’re proud to walk this path together.