“kihci Program Bridges Curriculum and Indigenous Culture for Kindergarten Students in Saskatchewan”

approximately 1500 students, or 29.2% of its student population, self-identifying as Indigenous. The kihci program, focused on wholistic education, is a significant step in ensuring these students feel represented and connected to their culture while at school.

The program currently has twelve students enrolled and is led by a dedicated Indigenous teacher, Raelyn Favel. It also brings local Elders and Knowledge Keepers into the classroom, fostering a unique learning environment. As the program enters its second year, excitement continues to build around its potential impact.

Tonya Lehman, superintendent of learning with LSKYSD, believes embedding culture into students’ educational experiences is vital from the outset.

“Identity of our students allows them to feel empowered and be successful. Currently, Living Sky has very limited opportunities for students to learn their language, a key part of building identity, and we want to change that,” she said.