Siksika Drumming Traditions: Learning from Alex Scalplock
Bassano School students from the Sikiska Nation have been participating in an important cultural experience this week (and will continue throughout the rest of the year). Organised by our Siksika Liaison, Chasity Daniels, and led by local drumming legend and Knowledge Keeper Alex Scalplock, these sessions are a key part of our commitment to our students' heritage.
Building Connections
For all students, staying involved in cultural traditions is a major part of their identity and their connection to their family history. This year, our male Siksika students are taking the lead in reintroducing drumming, which has been absent from our school since the pandemic. By bringing these sessions directly into the school, we hope to make cultural learning a natural and consistent part of our students' school week.
Respect in the Circle
The drum circle is a place where students show a high level of pride and focus. While checking in on the group, Mr Rodgers was invited to sit in the circle—an honour that allowed him to see firsthand the seriousness and respect the students bring to this part of their culture.
A Shared History
Siksika students have been an integral part of Bassano School for decades. "With almost one-third of our school students from Siksika, we don’t view our Siksika students as guests, but as a core part of our past, present, and future." As a school, we are continually looking for ways to celebrate the traditions of our community, all our students, and to honour Siksika and Blackfoot heritage in a meaningful way. We want to express our sincere appreciation to Alex Scalplock for sharing his time and wisdom with us, and to the Siksika Board of Education for sharing their expertise and resources to help this happen.