Learn, Build and Go: Knowing Through the Body

Learn, Build and Go: Knowing Through the Body
March 31, 2026

Learn, Build & Go is a division-wide professional learning series rooted in relationship, reflection, and responsibility—the calls to Truth and Reconciliation. Facilitated by Jana Boshee, Division Principal for First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Education the series invites educators to explore how Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and doing can shape classroom practice. The “Go” reminds participants that this learning moves beyond the session itself and into action within classrooms, schools, and communities. In Blackfoot, kii nai'tsistomato'k ai'stamma'tso'tsspi describes discernment as “making knowledge part of the body,” reinforcing the idea that knowing is lived, walked, and embodied. Aligning with the Holy Spirit Catholic School Division faith plan, this year’s focus centers on knowing God, ourselves, and creation through story.

The March 31 session, Knowing Through the Body: Enskillment and Practice, highlighted how knowledge is not only held in the mind but also practiced through doing. Teachers participated in experiential activities such as sewing, beading, and leatherwork, modeling how Blackfoot teachings are grounded in everyday life. Prior to the session, Jana shared reflection questions with administrators, encouraging participants to consider: What are the materials and tools teaching you? What are you noticing about the materials and others around you? What thoughts does this bring up around teaching and learning?

As educators engaged in hands-on learning, several key themes emerged. Many participants emphasized the value of experiential learning, noting that “learn by engaging” and “experiential learning” allowed them to connect more deeply with the process. Daphne Sander, Coordinator of English as an Additional Language shared, “It feels good to make something that feels meaningful,” capturing the sense of accomplishment and purpose that came from creating something by hand. Others spoke about gaining a “new appreciation for all my clothing,” recognizing the time, skill, and patience required for handmade work.

Relationship building was another strong theme.

Participants expressed excitement about connecting with colleagues they may not normally work alongside. The shared experience created opportunities for conversation, collaboration, and “new connections” and friendships across the division.

Slowing down also emerged as a meaningful takeaway. Mary Tilleman, Principal at St. Patrick School reflected that “slowing down, taking the time to enjoy learning something new feels great.” Many described the experience as relaxing and therapeutic, noting that working with their hands created space for reflection and meaningful dialogue. Participants shared that the environment helped them relate to one another while enjoying the calm pace of learning a new skill.

Emily Fox, Catholic Central High School First Nations Facilitator and ribbon skirt organizer, highlighted the unity that develops when people create together. Emily also spoke about the importance of carrying on ancestral traditions, noting that many of the patterns used today continue knowledge passed down through generations. “It’s amazing the things they did so long ago are still being passed on,” she shared. She also reflected on the spiritual dimension of her work, explaining, “We pray as we sew—I call on my grandmother to help me. It always works.” Emily expressed gratitude for being able to teach her passion and share cultural traditions through hands-on learning.

The Learn, Build & Go series continues throughout the year, building on themes of story, reflection, and action. Upcoming sessions will focus on carrying stories forward, creating spaces of belonging and hope, and exploring story as gift and seed.