Dear Thetis Islanders,

Thetis Elementary school and the Thetis Island Parents Association (TIPA) are hosting a full day workshop on Thursday, Feb 6th called "Understanding the Village".  It is a participatory workshop on understanding the First Nations culture before and after colonization.

The event will be presented and facilitated by Denise Augustine, Director of Aboriginal Education for our School District and another District Staff member. Thetis Island school children (grades 3 and up), parents, teachers and interested members of the community are encouraged to participate in this powerful learning experience.

This is a full day workshop (8:30-2:30) that includes sharing lunch together as part of the event.  In the morning, the session will focus on the First Nations culture prior to the arrival of colonizers.
After lunch, the session will focus on changes that happened after the arrival of colonizers. The purpose of the workshop is to build cultural connections and understanding in a supportive environment. It is not about blame or shame.

We hope you will join us for this special learning opportunity. There is no fee but donations appreciated to cover lunch. Any offers to assist with lunch (prep, serving, clean up) or bring desserts are welcome, please let us know in advance. RSVP required by Sunday, Feb 2. Please RSVP by email to Arlene Kasting at info@overburyresort.com

--Kelly Bannister (on behalf of our school community)