A former elementary school in Cedar will see new life as a language learning hub for Hul’q’umi’num language learners.
On Thursday, July 21, Snuneymuxw First Nation, in partnership with Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools, officially opened the Snuneymuxw Learning Academy at the former site of Woodbank Elementary School.
In 2018, it was announced the site would offer a variety of programs for the community, including mentorship and youth and elder programming.
“This marks a profound milestone for Snuneymuxw knowledge and for Hul’q’umi’num-speaking people,” said Chief Mike Wyse in a press release. “The SLA building is also home to our Snuneymuxw Traditional Medicines Clinic because to learn is to heal and to heal is to learn.”
The academy in partnered with the Hul’q’umi’num Language and Culture Society and Simon Fraser University Indigenous languages program, and is hosting the Hul’q’umi’num certificate in Indigenous language proficiency cohort in 2022-23, according to the release.
“We are grateful for the Snuneymuxw education team and all those that helped us transition Woodbank into an extraordinary Snuneymuxw-led learning and wellness hub,” said SFN councillor Isaac Thomas during the opening ceremony on July 21. “Today we celebrate a new era of learning and healing together.”
During the opening ceremony, students performed plays, skits, poems and songs in the Hul’q’umi’num language, followed by a feast and official unveiling of the new academy sign.
READ MORE: Snuneymuxw, school district announce deal for old Woodbank school site
mandy.moraes@nanaimobulletin.com
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