Local Elder Shares First Nation Culture at St. David School

Students and staff at St. David Catholic School leaned about how traditional First Nation hand drumming represents the heartbeat of mother earth. Elder, teacher, and musician, Verna Hardwick, spent the afternoon with various classes at St. David School teaching students about the importance of the drum in Indigenous cultures. Students learned new songs and had the opportunity to participate in a drumming circle. “It was a beautiful experience not only for my students, but also for myself. Mrs. Hardwick was a wonderful teacher. She encouraged the students to build their self confidence by singing and drumming proudly. She also shared traditional teachings, some Ojibwe words and phrases and most importantly stressed the importance of respect with the students and participants”, stated grade 3/4 teacher Ginny Long.