At Sioux Mountain Public School, we are honored to have Elder Nick Kowalow as our Elder in Residence, leading a land-based learning program supported by our First Nations Graduation Coach and Pathways staff. Each week, Elder Nick guides a class out to “Nick’s Nest,” a forested area near Sioux Lookout, for hands-on learning rooted in traditional teachings. Students begin each visit with a tobacco offering, smudging, and a sharing circle, followed by cultural activities such as hide scraping, shelter building, fire starting, medicine harvesting, and identifying animal tracks. These activities encourage students to connect deeply with themselves, each other, and the land.
The students also support Elder Nick in caring for Nick’s Nest, helping with tasks like hauling firewood, maintaining trails, and reinforcing creek bridges. Together, they enjoy meals around the fire, including bannock dogs and hot chocolate, while building lasting memories and connections. This immersive experience not only provides valuable cultural knowledge but also fosters a sense of community, resilience, and respect for the natural world.