Tea, shared stories, and homemade wild Saskatoon berry crisp helped set the tone for a warm and meaningful first meeting between trustees from the Pembina Hills School Division and District Captain Mike Hanly of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government earlier this month.

The gathering took place at mâmawapôwin, the division’s new learning facility whose Michif name means “coming together” or “meeting place” — a fitting setting for a conversation centred on connection, collaboration, and supporting Métis students across Pembina Hills.

Throughout the meeting, trustees and staff shared information about the division’s ongoing work under the division’s Métis Education Services Agreement with the Rupertsland Institute, and discussed opportunities to further strengthen supports for Métis learners and families. District Captain Hanly also shared perspectives on supporting youth and the importance of building meaningful relationships between schools and communities. The discussion reflected a shared commitment to student success, cultural understanding, and future collaboration while also highlighting opportunities to celebrate and support Indigenous student achievement, including the division’s upcoming Indigenous Graduation celebration.

Pembina Hills looks forward to continuing the conversation and working alongside District Captain Hanly and his colleagues to support Métis students, families, and communities throughout the region.

Pictured Left to Right: PHSD Superintendent Brett Cooper, Trustees David Truckey and Nicholas McCann, District Captain Mike Hanly, PHSD Board Chair Victoria Kane, Vice Chair Judy Lefebvre and Deputy Superintendent Raime Drake.