Gananoque students visit healing lodge as part of Indigenous education

Students across the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) are learning about Indigenous cultures, traditions and contributions through hands-on experiences that continue beyond National Indigenous History Month.

The UCDSB expressed their commitment to embedding Indigenous education into their schools’ learning not just in June, but throughout the entire school year, as shared in a press release issued on Wednesday, June 3, 2026.

Staff and students are provided with partnerships and resources to deepen their understanding and build relationships grounded in reconciliation.

One such opportunity is for students to visit Sweat/Healing Lodges in Maxville and Perth. Most recently, Gananoque Secondary School (GSS) visited the Miitig Healing Lodge in Maxville on Monday, June 1, 2026.

“I had a really fun time. I liked learning about the Indigenous culture and honouring it,” said Grade 8 student Nicholas Offord.

GSS students participated in the lodge teachings and experienced a sweat firsthand. They were guided by Elder Thomas Louttit and residential school survivor and Fire Keeper, Paul Allaire.

“It taught me how to go into my mind and open my heart more,” shared Grade 7 student Ayden Veley.

The students learned how the sweat lodge is a place of healing and its teachings emphasize balance, respect, and interconnectedness. Through hands-on activities, the students learned protocols that guide ceremony and how to help maintain the lodge.

“It brings good to my heart to see young people here,” said Elder Louttit. “I want them to get the feel of a sweat, hear the songs and understand their meaning.”

UCDSB is committed to continuing land-based and experiential learning that complement classroom instruction, the release shared.

Some other hands-on learning offered to UCDSB schools throughout the year include:

• The Indigenous Leadership program (iLead) for self-identified Indigenous students and allies that provides leadership and learning experiences from cultural advisors
• For-credit classes in subjects such as Mohawk Language and Lacrosse
• A three-day cultural camp experience at Thompson Island that connects land-based learning with traditional Indigenous experiences and science
• Regular school-based support from Cultural Advisors providing teachings, mentorship, and community connection