Students at Peter Skene Ogden Secondary School (PSO) recently got a hands-on chance to learn about Indigenous dance during their gym classes. Students learned about dance from knowledge keeper Victoria Frank, and local dancers Loghan Archie and Mason Salter demonstrated dances for the students. After the demonstrations, students were invited to try dance moves and participate in a friendship circle dance. PSO Indigenous support worker Angel Smith said she felt that it was important for students to get to try out the dances. “In this case we’re kind of teaching them so [they] know they can participate and learn (as well),” said Smith. “They’ve been very receptive and attentive, which is great.” Smith noted that she also wants to implement more “teaching classes” that allow students to participate in activities such as hand drum building.
