Realizing a vision that started more than eight years ago, Niitsitapi Learning Centre (NLC) in partnership with Alberta Health Services (AHS) is pleased to celebrate the official opening of Elbow River Healing Lodge - an on-site wellness clinic offering holistic and primary health care services for NLC students and families.
In the practice of the Blackfoot value of iikakimat, which means to persevere through life's storms, establishing the clinic demonstrates determination, bravery and the power of collective effort and collaborative partnership. The founding NLC community advisory and the AHS Elder Wisdom Council wanted an onsite clinic that provided holistic, primary health care services for students and families from an Indigenous perspective, including extended family in the home.
"The school surveyed families, seeking what supports and services families were looking for and need," said Michelle Ranger, System Principal, Indigenous Education.
"And while families were appreciative of the physician, nurse practitioner, mental health support, dental and vision screening services offered, it was determined there was a need for traditional cultural and holistic supports, including access to Elders, ceremonial support and Indigenous medicines."
Elbow River Healing Lodge is truly intended to reduce access and communication barriers that students and families may be facing to align health, and education needs to better support each student's growth and well-being.
"A child's health and well-being cannot be separated from their family. This clinic, embedded in an Indigenous-focused school, reflects this understanding by collaborating with allied health partners and educators to create a holistic approach to care," said Dr. Matt Ray, medical director of Elbow River Healing Lodge.
"By reducing barriers and enhancing access to healthcare, we're not just supporting individual children; we're fostering stronger, healthier families and communities."
Tracy Rand, Principal of NLC, echoed the importance of breaking down these barriers and the importance of recognizing that clear communication between the school and healthcare providers is essential for supporting students when health needs affect learning.
"To give you a sense of how this clinic will make a difference imagine a child who struggles with regular ear infections, but because their family doesn't have easy access to a doctor, the infection goes untreated leading to missed school days and difficulty focusing on learning," said Rand.
"With access to the wellness clinic, that child alongside their parent can get the care they need right here at school, minimizing disruptions to their learning. This clinic isn't just about providing primary care; it's about culturally responsive care."
The collaboration with Elbow River Healing Lodge represents a step toward truth and reconciliation and directly addresses the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Call to Action #22 . This call to action emphasizes the importance of recognizing and integrating Indigenous healing practices into healthcare services, ensuring that Indigenous peoples receive equitable access to culturally appropriate care. In collaboration with Elbow River Healing Lodge, Calgary Board of Education is not only providing access to Indigenous-centered healthcare but also honouring traditional practices and actively working to reduce healthcare inequities.
Principal Rand noted how important it is for students and families to feel supported in ways that honour their cultural identities.
"When kids feel safe, respected, and understood, it positively impacts their health and their learning. Together, we are breaking down barriers to healthcare, ensuring our students and families have access to the care they need to thrive both in school and beyond. Here's to healthier futures and brighter learning outcomes!"
