Comox Valley Schools deepens learning through visits to Kumugwe Big House

Comox Valley Schools students, staff and district leaders have been taking part in meaningful learning experiences at Kumugwe Big House on the K’ómoks First Nation through a collaboration led by the district’s Indigenous Education Department.

The sessions created opportunities for participants to learn directly from Indigenous knowledge holders in a culturally significant space rooted in history, governance and community.

On the first day, English First Peoples and BC First Peoples teachers from throughout the district gathered at Kumugwe Big House for a learning session. Senior leaders from Highland Secondary and G.P. Vanier Secondary also joined the first session.

U’magalis Keisha Everson led teachings on both days, sharing perspectives grounded in identity, culture, language and responsibility. Trevor Hardy and Jessie Everson, whose traditional name is Kwakwax̱olas, also shared teachings connected to land, family and intergenerational knowledge.

On the second day, senior leaders joined English First Peoples 11 students and staff from NIDES, Mark R. Isfeld Secondary and Glacier View Secondary for Big House Teachings.

During the sessions, participants learned about the deep connections between people, place and culture. Participants also learned about the impacts of colonial policies, including the potlatch ban from 1884 to 1951, and the strength of families and communities who protected cultural practices despite criminalization.

Keisha also shared her regalia as a form of visual storytelling, expressing family identity, history and responsibility.

This week, grade 4 students will be attending for an amazing opportunity to witness Big House traditions with Andy Everson and the Kumagwe Cultural Society Dancers.

Participants have been serving as witnesses, carrying what they learned back to their families, schools and communities for further reflection.

These visits reflect Comox Valley Schools’ ongoing work to honour Indigenous voices, strengthen relationships with K’ómoks First Nation and create authentic learning opportunities that connect students and staff to the histories, cultures and lands of this region.