Bak̕wa̱mk̓ala Language Program

At the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw School, we have made the Bak̕wa̱mk̓ala language a central focus and priority. Working closely with fluent speakers, we continue to develop curriculum and learning resources that reflect and celebrate the ‘Nak̕wala and Gwat̕sala dialects, including video and audio recordings.

Students participate in two Bak̕wa̱mk̓ala classes each week with their teachers and educational assistants, learning vocabulary and conversational language through songs, stories, and direct lessons based on the local dialect. Whenever possible, elders are invited into the school to share their knowledge, teachings, and language with both students and staff.

In the Pre-K Program, elders spend regular time with the children, creating a language-rich environment where staff and students build fluency through natural interaction. The children have developed strong, caring relationships with the elders as they receive teachings and love through daily routines. Throughout the day, language learning is reinforced by using Bak̕wa̱mk̓ala in conversation and singing songs that connect to classroom activities.

Bak̕wa̱mk̓ala is also incorporated into our Outdoor Education Program, where students learn place-based vocabulary and traditional knowledge on the land. This connection to language, territory, and culture helps deepen students’ understanding of who they are and where they come from.

The school’s language and cultural education efforts are supported by the strong interest of parents and families who want their children to continue building identity, pride, and connection as members of the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw community.

In addition, the school supports ongoing professional development for language learning through collaboration with the community adult immersion program, partnerships with local language initiatives, and training in recording and technology skills through the Language and Technology Community Project.

Student Services Program

In the Student Services Department (SSD), we work to meet student needs in all ways. In our school we operate under the guiding principles of inclusion, with a strength-based approach. We understand that students are multi-dimensional people with a variety of shifting needs and we collaborate with in-school and out-of-school services to best support the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being of our students. We work with students and families and the greater community to ensure that student needs are met in a culturally appropriate way.

When school staff notice that a student may need extra learning or social supports, we connect with professionals to provide assessments to best inform how to meet their earning needs. Professionals that we regularly connect with include: Speech and Language Pathologist, Occupational Therapist, Physical Therapist, Educational Psychologist, Registered Nurses, Counsellors, and whoever else comes up as helpful for our students! Assessments and support from these professionals help us to identify learning challenges and plan appropriate supports. We are so fortunate to also have an on-staff SLP Assistant, Dea-ta Dawson, who regularly provides speech and language interventions to students at the direction of our SLP. The SSD, with the assistance of our Parent and Family Coordinator, Robin King, assists families in accessing services and advocating for support through outside agencies.

The Student Service’s Department is responsible for developing and assisting in the implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEP’s) for students who require extra support to participate in the educational programming. IEP’s are created with teachers, EA’s, families, and students. These plans are reviewed and updated regularly.

The SSD assists in transitions for students between grades and as our students move on to high school.

Our team collaborates closely with staff and students, wellness workers, counsellors, and community agencies to support the holistic well-being of students.

Outdoor Program

Music Program

In our primary music classroom, students get to explore the joy of music through singing, movement, and play! Children use percussion instruments to make rhythms, keep a steady beat, and discover how sounds can come together to make music. They love to sing songs, move their bodies, and use their coordination skills to add fun actions and dances.

Music and movement aren’t just fun—they’re an important part of helping children grow and feel their best. Through singing and moving, students learn to express themselves, build confidence, and find healthy ways to regulate their energy and emotions. Music helps them focus, feel calm, and fill their day with joy and connection. In our music room, every beat, note, and dance step helps children shine!

Physical and Health Education Program

Our Physical and Health Education (PHE) program runs Monday through Friday, offering a diverse range of activities that support student well-being and development. On Mondays, students in Grades 5, 6, and 7 participate in experiential outdoor learning, while from Tuesday to Friday, in-house PHE classes are held for all students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 7. Unlike many elementary schools, our PHE program is delivered by a dedicated PHE teacher, supported by additional staff. This model allows for a focused and consistent approach to physical and health education, emphasizing the connection between daily physical activity, overall health, and academic success. My goal as the PHE teacher is to ensure every student enjoys being active and develops the skills and confidence they need to stay fit for life. Students are encouraged to set personal fitness goals, explore their interests, and gain a better understanding of how movement supports their physical and emotional regulation. Fundamental skill development is a key focus, helping students feel prepared and capable in a wide variety of sports and activities, both now and in the future. The PHE program also extends beyond the gym. We offer before- and after-school Sports Clubs, weekly skating sessions, lunchtime intramurals with rotating sports, and daily in-class physical activity. We are incredibly fortunate to have a team of dedicated, health-focused staff who support both our curricular and extracurricular programs.