A First Nation community in Saskatchewan is implementing an innovative approach to educate students about their environment. Located approximately 520 kilometers north of Saskatoon, Clearwater River Dene Nation utilizes a seasonal land-based learning strategy to enhance student engagement in their studies.
Grade 11 student Landon Moise expressed that this learning model provides unique opportunities that would not be available otherwise. Students have the chance to interact with scientists, engage in sampling activities, collaborate with NexGen at their future mine site, and work alongside individuals they might not have connected with before.
One of the focal points of their curriculum is the traditional practice of snare fishing. Paul Haynes, the school’s land-based educator, explained the process of crafting a snare using a long branch from a poplar or birch tree, along with rabbit snare wire. The pole’s length varies from four to 12 feet, depending on the location.
Locating the fish is a crucial step in the process. According to Haynes, observing and catching the fish require skill and finesse, as students need to align their snare accurately with the fish in the water. Despite the initial learning curve, many students have excelled in this traditional fishing method.
Following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the school had to reassess its teaching methodologies due to low attendance rates. Haynes noted a shift in students’ attitudes towards education post-pandemic, leading the school to adopt new approaches to re-engage them.
Now, students like Landon find joy in attending school and recognize the practical value of their learning experiences. The school pairs older students with younger ones to provide mentorship and ensure safety during outdoor activities.
Snare fishing not only upholds an ancient fishing tradition but also serves as a platform to teach both western and Indigenous sciences. Students learn about the fish’s protective slime and proper handling techniques to safeguard them from potential harm before releasing them back into the water.
Lessons on exercising their inherent rights to hunt and fish responsibly are integrated into the curriculum. Students are taught ethical practices, ensuring that all harvested fish are distributed to their families. The program emphasizes conservation and ethical fishing practices, using any surplus fish to prepare meals for the students.
Furthermore, the school benefits from the guidance of two elders, Doreen Louise Moise and Pauline Fontaine, who impart traditional knowledge and teach students how to clean the fish they catch. The elders play a crucial role in passing down cultural practices to the younger generation.
High school student Carmen Haineault emphasized the importance of teaching proper fish handling techniques to children who may not have access to this knowledge at home. She highlighted the satisfaction of witnessing younger students’ joy when they successfully snare a fish, underscoring the significance of preserving traditions for future generations.