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At Victory School, we believe that learning about Canadian history, Canadian present-day and Indigenous culture are important educational concepts for our staff and students. 

The Indigenous world view refers to guiding principles and traditional values of Indigenous societies.  It is a holistic process where learning takes place across spiritual, physical, emotional and mental dimensions.  In supporting this work in our school, we will begin offering a daily smudge to all students who are interested.  This will take place in at 9:05 a.m. in our community room which is a well ventilated area. 

Smudging is a tradition, common among many Indigenous people which involves burning of one or more medicines gathered from the Earth.  We will be using Sage.  Smudging allows people to stop, slow down, become mindful and centered.  This allows people to let go of something negative.  The forms of smudging will vary from nation to nation but are considered by all to be a way of cleansing oneself. Smudging is part of "the way things are done and is part of living a good life. 

A smudge is led by a person who has an understanding of what a smudge is and why it is done.  We will be using a shell, and the smoke is pushed forward with an eagle feather.  When we smudge, we first cleanse our hands with the smoke as if we were washing our hands.  We then draw the smoke over our heads, eyes, ears, mouth, and our bodies.  These actions remind us to think good thoughts, see good actions, hear good sounds, speak good words and show the good of who we are.  Students are encouraged to smudge the way they feel comfortable. 

For more information; please see the documents below:

Smudging Protocol and Guidelines.pdf

Smudging Policy.pdf