Flex Friday on February 6 brought students from Kindergarten through Grade 12 together for a day centered on culture, teamwork, and hands-on learning. Instead of regular classes, students rotated through interactive stations that connected learning with Way of Life Teaching and community knowledge.

Throughout the day, students moved between activities including Elder and community storytelling, talking stick decorating, Cree language games, and traditional hand games. Each station offered something different — from listening and learning through stories, to creating personal talking sticks, to learning Cree words through movement and friendly competition, and even practicing hand games in preparation for future tournaments.

One highlight was seeing students of different grade levels working together, encouraging one another, and sharing laughs as they learned new skills. The talking stick decorating station was especially popular, allowing students to create meaningful pieces they will later take home. Meanwhile, Cree word relay games and hand games brought energy and excitement, combining culture, language, and physical activity.

Flex Friday continues to show how learning extends beyond the classroom. By bringing students, staff, Elders, and community members together, the day reinforces the importance of culture, cooperation, and community connection in education.

A big thank you goes out to all staff, station leaders, community members, and kitchen staff who helped organize and support the day, making it a meaningful experience for everyone involved.

Events like this remind us that some of the most powerful learning happens when students can move, create, listen, and connect together.

Flex Friday is a great example of Cadotte Lake School living out learning through community and culture.