Gilakas’la.

On behalf of the staff and students of North Island Secondary School and School District No. 85 Aboriginal Programs and Services, we would like to invite you to attend our totem pole ceremony on Thursday, May 17, 2018 beginning at 11:00 am.

This special event will also serve to commemorate the signing of our new Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreement.

North Island Secondary School is a regional high school in Port McNeill that has grown in its learning and support of First Nation’s culture and traditions. Our ‘Namwiyut “Family” Totem Pole project has had students and community members learning more of the Kwakwaka’wakw culture guided by Kwakwaka’wakw artist, Chief Don Svanvik. ‘Namwiyut (family) is a strong theme at North Island Secondary School. During this ceremony, our students will be celebrating culture through ceremony, song, and dance.

Students from all the neighboring schools and community members are invited to attend and participate in our cultural pole raising ceremony in front of our school. A shuttle to the school from BC Ferries will be provided for those wishing to join us from the island communities. A free BBQ lunch will follow for all in attendance.

Our totem pole will symbolize community strength through building connections (family) between our youth, families, and communities.

We hope to see you there!