North Memorial School in Portage la Prairie is wrapping up the school year with a full lineup of events focused on culture, family, and community connection. Principal Val Smith outlines several highlights planned over the final days of the academic calendar.
The school’s upcoming powwow and feast will include a special twist this year: an Indigenous sports day developed through collaboration between Charlotte Prince, Janey Bradford, and teacher Mr. McCullough.
“We’re going to spend the morning from nine o’clock all the way till one with some activities, and we’re going to invite parents to join the day in our Feast.”
The day also features a barbecue hosted by Youth for Christ, Youth Unlimited, along with parent prize draws, creating a sense of unity and shared celebration across the school community.
“It’s building togetherness, and we’ve worked hard at learning together. Now, we’re going to work hard at being respectful together and enjoying each other’s diversity.”
Splash Island picnic and student draws
Beyond the cultural celebration, families will come together again at Splash Island for a picnic and swim day, further strengthening community ties as the year winds down. Attendance-based incentives will also be awarded, including a bike draw for students who demonstrate respect and dedication to being present.
“They will get to win a brand new bike, helmet, and lock, to name a few of the things that are happening in action-packed June.”
Recognition rooted in seven teachings
Rather than academic percentages or traditional awards, North Memorial recognizes students weekly through the lens of Indigenous values. The school’s approach honours respectful behaviour, responsibility, and safety with “star of the week” acknowledgements in areas such as music and sports.
“We reward our students by being respectful, safe, and responsible every week and have stars of the week every weekday on Friday or Mondays.”
Classrooms near capacity but stable
Smith says enrolment is holding steady heading into next year.
“We’re pretty full here, and we’re at capacity for our classrooms. Our class sizes are nice and manageable, and it’s hopefully going to remain such in September.”
Summer programs and staffing update
No retirements are expected this year among the staff, although routine changes are always part of the seasonal transition. Smith also points to summer programming offered through the school’s Outreach and Community Connector team.
“They do work very hard on keeping kids active and supporting parents all through the summer months.”
The focus throughout June remains clear: celebrating a year of growth, learning, and unity with students, families and staff alike.
Stay posted for a news story about the school's summer programming for 2025.