The carving of a Welcome Post is underway at Burnaby North Secondary, under the guidance of Master Carver and Squamish Nation Elder Xwalacktun. When complete, the transformed piece of old growth cedar will greet all who come to the new high school.Ìý
Both staff and students have been carving since the spring of 2021. As they work together, Xwalacktun has also been sharing stories, teachings about culture, and Indigenous learnings.
Ideas for the design came from a collaboration between the school and the artist, with each aspect chosen for its meaning. As the final design takes shape, it will reveal elements of the sky, earth, and sea, as well as a medicine wheel representing the different nations and cultures at the school.
Support for the project was provided by
Work Underway on New Burnaby North Secondary – Posted July 2020
Learn more about Indigenous Education in Burnaby Schools
Indigenous Education: Sharing Stories
Posted November 2021