New cultural fitness academy set for Saskatoon high school
- NC Raine | June 16, 2018
A new initiative launching at Saskatoon’s E.D. Feehan Catholic High School this fall will work with youth in developing their fitness, culture, academics, and all-round wellness.
The miyo machiowin Academy (Cree for “healthy living”) is a unique program focused on providing academics mixed with fitness and training programs – complimenting the Indigenous language and culture program already in place at E.D. Feehan. The small gymnasium currently at the school is being renovated into a cutting-edge fitness space which will serve as the centre for youth wellness, as well as be incorporated into academic and community programming.
The academy is a partnership between Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools (GSCS) and Saskatoon Tribal Council (STC).
“This program is going to make a big difference in these young peoples lives,” said STC Chief Mark Arcand at the academy announcement on June 13th. “In the spirit of reconciliation, this partnership offers and extraordinary opportunity to put the Indian back in the Indian by working side by side with our partners as GSCS to launch this unique First Nations fitness and wellness academy.”
The academy is in part a response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) Call to Action 89, which calls for the promotion of physical activities and reduction of barriers limiting participation.
“It’s humbling to see we’re moving in the direction of reconciliation. We are honouring the (TRC’s) calls to action, which is very important,” said Chief Arcand.
The program is scheduled to start in the fall of 2018 with a cohort of Grade 9 students. Students currently in Grade 8 are being invited to register for the program, just as they would to attend any other high school.
The academy will also incorporate a recruitment process, welcoming students from rural and First Nations communities, as well as citywide catchment areas. Both First Nations and non-First Nations students are invited to apply.
“This is a significant step for Indigenous students in reclaiming their language and their culture,” said Diane Boyko, chair of the school division’s Board of Education. “(The academy) is something that’s going to be shining star here...and it’s a belief that we’re part of the health, culture, language, and spiritual journey of every student.”
The academy is thanks in part to an anonymous donor, who gave $200,000, which was used for renovations, equipment purchases, and program development. STC announced they will also be donating $50,000 worth of fitness training equipment to the school as part of the program.
Students will be taught English language arts, social science, Catholic studies, and cultural arts, in additional the enhanced physical education fitness and training.
And some even have hopes that the academy eventually makes a significant impact on international athletics.
“One of my dreams is to have representation in the Olympics by First Nations people,” said TRC representative Eugene Arcand. “The seed you have planted here gives us hope that we will have more Olympians representing our country at the next Olympics. I see greater things.”