Story perspectives

Moose-Hide Lesson Boosts Grades, Reduces Anxiety at Indigenous School

4/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Students at Elsie Fabian School spent an hour scraping a moose hide on Fort McKay First Nation.
The Indigenous-run K-9 school continues its land-based curriculum blending outdoor skills with Cree and Dene language lessons.
Principal Sarah Hiscock reports participants have improved behavior and grades.
Teacher Carleen Spencer and educational assistant Reanna Whiteknife say the sessions lower anxiety and help students share traditional knowledge with families lacking those skills.

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Story summary

Students at Elsie Fabian School spent an hour scraping a moose hide on Fort McKay First Nation.
The Indigenous-run K-9 school continues its land-based curriculum blending outdoor skills with Cree and Dene language lessons.
Principal Sarah Hiscock reports participants have improved behavior and grades.
Teacher Carleen Spencer and educational assistant Reanna Whiteknife say the sessions lower anxiety and help students share traditional knowledge with families lacking those skills.