February 10, 2023—On February 9, more than 80 students and family members gathered for a special PJ’s and Blanket "Thoughtful Thursday" night at Sir John A. Macdonald School. Along with pizza and activities, families had the opportunity to hear award winning Indigenous author Monique Gray Smith, in a live virtual presentation. She read her new book “I Hope”.
Students and families learned about relationships with land, water … and relationships with others. They also learned about having the moral courage do to the right thing. Monique asked families “What are your hopes”? Her presentation was followed up with a question and answer time and a family activity.
Monique Gray Smith is Cree, Lakota and Scottish. She is an award winning author and is well known for her storytelling, spirit of generosity and focus on resilience. She has 9 books ranging for readers across the life span. Monique’s books are used to share wisdom, knowledge, hope and the important teaching that love is medicine.
The evening was part of ongoing learning that the school is engaging in "Thoughtful Thursdays." Over the course of the year, staff and students have been engaging in a variety of Indigenous learning experiences.