Amanda Pont-Shanks with her kindergarten class of Central Public
School in Grimbsy, ONThe Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Niagara Region Métis Council (NRMC) has been busy educating students in the Niagara region about Métis history, culture and way of life. Council member Amanda Pont-Shanks shared her culture with her kindergarten class at Central Public School in Grimsby. She talked about her sash, its uses, what it means to her and what each colour represents. She also talked about the Métis flag and the voyageurs. Her students loved hearing about Métis travels and even made their own canoe in the block centre!
MNO NRMC President Derrick Pont presented to the primary grades at Jacob Beam Public School in Beamsville. He talked to the students about the life of a Métis fur trapper and shared his traditional knowledge of Métis history and way of life. He gave a very interactive presentation where students were allowed to touch and feel furs, try on regalia, and ask questions about the Métis in Ontario.
Among the attendees included President Derrick Pont’s grandson, Holden Shanks (grade 2), who was thrilled to have his grandpa share his heritage with his class. When Holden was asked, “what is your favorite thing about being Métis?” He responded, “being in parades with grandpa!”
The MNO Niagara Region Métis Council presents to many schools across Niagara. Council members also sit on various education advisory committees such as Brock University and Niagara College.