As we moved into the second week of our time in Kyuquot we realized that a shift in plans would  need to be made due to the labour dispute within our B.C. schools.  As we talked with members of the community we became aware that the Kindergarten in the community was band run and there would be an openness to us volunteering our time there.  We began working with the Kindergarten on the Monday of this week.

Houpsitas Kindergarten and Pre-school in Kyuquot

Our introduction to the school was fun indeed!  The kids were welcoming and interested to see newcomers.  As well, the staff were open and friendly.  We began helping out in different ways: Helping with centres, dancing with the kids to music and working with them one-on-one.  They are full of enthusiasm and excited to learn!  The days usually have a structure of some free time upon coming to the school, carpet time where attendance and the days shape are previewed and then on into centres and snack time.

Carpet time at Houpsitas.

We would make our daily tromp down the hill from our teacherage into Kyuquot proper where the Kindergarten was located.  This was interesting as we would often walk by the teachers picketing at the elementary school on our way.  We would wave, wish them our best and then continue on down the road.  If time permitted, we would often stop in for a visit and be offered snacks and goodies for the road.

Another look at Houpsitas

Having not been involved in a lot of Kindergarten classes to date, it is hard to compare the style of this school to another.  I feel that in many ways it must be fairly standard as it felt  structured and progressive.  The kids seem to enjoy the days and to be well integrated into the school life and community.  Attendance has been a little low, however, due to the strike.  Many of the families older children are already finished school for the year. This mindset has continued into the Kindergarten with some families feeling school is done so not bringing their younger children in.

Culture woven into education at Houpsitas.

One of the defining events this week was the graduation of five of the students.  A large gathering was held where friends, relatives and family came to celebrate the passing through of some of the kindergarten students.  The kids had hats woven traditionally for them in honour of the graduation and were honoured for the different things that they had accomplished for the year.  Balloons and decorations surrounded the room and food was to be had for all!  The kids previewed their work from the year to all that were interested.

Traditionally woven graduation caps.

The graduating ‘podium’.

Decorations in the facility.

In all, our time at Houpsitas has been very fortunate.   We are glad to still be in the community and working on our practicum despite the labour dispute and to be involved with a facility that seems to be working so well.  The kids are a shining example of a job being well done here and it has been a pleasure to be a part of it.  Some of the things I will take from this experience include a better understanding of how to run a good kindergarten class.  Keeping all the kids involved, through stations, dance time and space to be imaginative and creative on their own are things that I hope to take from this experience to another classroom.  Also, the strong integration of native culture into the lessons and environment show how the culture of a place can be effectively woven into a child’s education.  Whether it was video’s being played that included native myths or the local art being displayed on gift bags, the use of native culture was prevalent. This is something I want to keep in mind for any future classroom I am running.  I would hope to integrate the local culture with the continuing education of the students in  my charge.

Centres at Houpsitas.

Space to play.

Keep posted for next weeks update on Houpsitas and life in Kyuquot!