Students in the Grade 7 and 8 Ojibway classes at St. Thomas Aquinas High School have welcomed Paul White into his new role as Director of Education.
The classes began with an honour song preformed by Shawana Rae, then students spoke about the 8 Grandfather teachings and what they mean to them.
Teacher Betty Jean Echum said all the students contributed in someway, even if they didn’t feel comfortable speaking at the presentation.
“They wanted to welcome Mr. White to his new role. And even if they weren’t comfortable speaking publicly, they helped in other ways. Like helping to make the Dream Catcher or the sign” she said.
White was presented with:
- The Mishoomis Drum and the Drumstick to keep all his visions, goals, ideas and dreams secure until they are ready to be revealed to the rest of the world
- A Dream Catcher to carry his ambitions for the board and keep them safe like the original legend states by protecting the future visions of the KCDSB
- An Eagle Feather and picture of a feather to remind him that the Creator/God will always be by his side as long he needs him
- And a Medicine wheel key chain to guide him in healing thoughts and steer him in the right direction and path when he starts to feel overwhelmed at times. It will be there to give him a peace of mind when he needs it.
Of the presentation White said “I am humbled and honored with the presentation by the Gr. 7 and 8 students at STAHS. As a team, we will continue to work together to allow our students to achieve success in all areas of their life.”