Submitted by Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools and Rotary Club of Saskatoon Nutana

Reclamation of Indigenous language and revitalization of Cree culture for youth in Saskatoon is getting a boost thanks to an enhanced partnership between Rotary Club of Saskatoon Nutana and Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools.

At a recent event at St. Frances Cree Bilingual School on McPherson Avenue, members of Rotary Club of Saskatoon Nutana announced plans to support Indigenous performing arts education at the new St. Frances school that is expected to open in the fall of 2023, on the corner of 7th Street East and Grosvenor Avenue.

“St. Frances Cree Bilingual School is a response to the Truth and Reconciliation’s Calls to Action and aligns perfectly with Rotary’s belief in the value of friendship and mutual respect in building community,” said Lorne Braithewaite, Nutana Rotary president.

“The Rotary Club of Saskatoon Nutana has addressed the Calls to Action in a number of ways over the past few years, and we know it will take several generations to arrive at a place of true reconciliation. This project gives us the opportunity to continue our work for the long term.”

“St. Frances has become an award-winning, internationally-recognized Indigenous language and cultural school,” said Diane Boyko, Board of Education chair for Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools.

“I really believe the new facility, and support of programming like we are announcing today, will give the students the support and inspiration they deserve. Music and the arts are tangible ways to both express and experience Indigenous culture. We’re very thankful to have partners like Nutana Rotary to walk with along this journey,” Boyko said.

Rotary Club of Saskatoon Nutana officials said that they invite everyone — “rotarians and non-rotarians alike”—to support the establishment of Indigenous performing arts education at St. Frances by volunteering, sharing news of the partnership, and through financial contributions.

-30-

Background Information:

St. Frances Cree Bilingual School × Indigenous Arts and Identity Partnership: A Project of Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools & Rotary Club of Saskatoon Nutana

What is it?

A partnership to support Indigenous Performing Arts Education at St. Frances Cree Bilingual School.

How does this partnership address the TRC Calls to Action?

Rotary Club of Saskatoon Nutana is an ally and supporter of the community development and language retention goals at St. Frances Cree Bilingual School. Rotary was inspired to support a learning focus that will foster the development of Indigenous student voice and identity.

What are the project components?

• Dramatic Arts: Students will learn Dramatic Arts theory and skills with a focus on Indigenous literary themes.
• Music: Students will participate in music education with a focus on expression and healing.
• Performance and Production Technologies: Students will learn the processes and skills to present musical and dramatic performances through performance and production skills.

Why are we focussing on Indigenous Arts?

The arts foster students’ imagination, creativity, and problem solving, enhancing students’ ability to innovate and collaborate. The Rotary Indigenous Arts and Identity Program aims to build student resilience, identity and communication skills by providing students access to diverse Performing Arts learning opportunities.

How will Rotary support the partnership?

• Community Participation Leadership Forum: Rotary members will collaborate with family and community members to provide program leadership.
• Partnership and Resource Development: Rotary will help to provide specialized equipment, resource people from artistic communities, and relationships with program partners.
• Program and Performance Supports: Rotary will play an important role in the production aspects of the program.

How can you assist?

Make a financial contribution to the campaign. Volunteer your time and expertise. Spread the word.

-30-