Foothills Academy Holds School-Wide Ani to Pisi Ceremony Honouring Blackfoot Traditions
Calgary, AB — On June 6, 2025, Foothills Academy Society hosted a meaningful school-wide Ani to Pisi ceremony, bringing together all students and staff in an immersive reenactment of the Blackfoot creation story, Ani to Pisi (the spiderweb).
Foothills Academy Holds School-Wide Ani to Pisi Ceremony Honouring Blackfoot Traditions
Calgary, AB — On June 6, 2025, Foothills Academy Society hosted a meaningful school-wide Ani to Pisi ceremony, bringing together all students and staff in an immersive reenactment of the Blackfoot creation story, Ani to Pisi (the spiderweb).
Led by Elder Roy Bear Chief and students from the Capstone class in Mount Royal University's Child Studies program, the event featured traditional drumming, storytelling, and participation from the entire school community. Students and staff joined together in a powerful performance that celebrated Indigenous culture, knowledge, and community spirit.
A highlight of the day was the presence of Fancy Dancers, who joined the circle and added vibrancy and energy to the ceremony, including a student from Foothills Academy Society.
“This was a truly special opportunity for our students to engage with Indigenous ways of knowing in a respectful and participatory way,” said Ashley Barber, School Principal at Foothills Academy Society. “It allowed us to honour Blackfoot traditions, learn from Elder Roy Bear Chief, and strengthen our connections as a school community.”
Foothills Academy extends heartfelt thanks to Elder Roy Bear Chief, the Fancy Dancers, and everyone who helped make this event possible. Additionally, we would like to thank Elder Hayden Melting Tallow for joining us and performing the blessing before our Ani to Pisi ceremony took place. We would also like to extend our gratitude to Phil Fontaine and Kathleen Mahoney for joining our Ani to Pisi ceremony and for sharing their story about his experiences as a residential school survivor and how together how they achieved the creation of the Indian Residential School Settlement Agreement and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission with our Social Studies students. We are grateful for the time and knowledge shared with us.
About Foothills Academy Society
Foothills Academy Society has been serving children and youth with Learning Disabilities and ADHD since 1979. Through a combination of full-time schooling, community services, and specialized programs, Foothills Academy empowers individuals to reach their full potential in learning and in life. The organization is committed to fostering a community of understanding, support, and advocacy for those with Learning Disabilities and related challenges.
For more information, visit: www.foothillsacademy.org and Global News Calgary
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