In celebration of Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, St. Paul Education schools proudly hosted two Round Dance gatherings this June—each offering students and staff an opportunity to learn from, participate in, and honour Indigenous traditions. Guided by Cultural Advisor Gloria Half, these events highlighted the power of community, ceremony, and cultural understanding.
The Meaning of the Round Dance
Round Dances symbolize unity, community, and a connection to the land, ancestors, and the Creator. Traditionally, Round Dance ceremonies were held to honour loved ones who had passed on—a memorial practice that still continues today. In more recent years, they have also become a cherished part of gatherings, celebrations, and social events, offering a joyful way to bring people together and celebrate Indigenous culture.
“The circle is sacred in our culture, and the drum represents the heartbeat of Mother Earth, Kîkâwînaw Askiy,” shared Gloria Half, Cultural Advisor for St. Paul Education. “It brings the community together.”
While round dances are typically held during the winter months, St. Paul Education consulted with Senior Elder Advisor Melvin Abraham, who gave his guidance and support to hold one during this season.
At its heart, the Round Dance is about connection—between people, generations, and the land—and it continues to offer healing, joy, and cultural pride to all who participate.
“One of the biggest things about the round dance is that it breaks all those barriers that sometimes divide us. This is the one time we come together and join hands and dance together.”
— Shana Dion, Assistant Dean of First Nations, Métis and Inuit Students, University of Alberta
Glen Avon and St. Paul Regional High School Round Dance
On June 16, Glen Avon School and St. Paul Regional High School partnered to host a Round Dance that welcomed students and staff from St. Paul Alternate Education Centre, Central Office, and members of the broader school community.
Held under sunny skies, the school grounds came alive with the sound of the drum and the warmth of community. The drum group from Saddle Lake, led by Darcy McGilvery, carried the circle with traditional songs passed down by oral tradition through generations—many taught by his grandfather and great-grandfather before him. These songs, some over 100 years old, hold the stories, teachings, and strength of those who came before.
A highlight of the event was the Apple Dance, a fun and engaging tradition where participants dance to earn an apple. The dance celebrates joy, movement, and cultural connection.
The day concluded with a giveaway and closing Round Dance, during which gifts were shared in gratitude—a gesture rooted in respect and generosity within Indigenous tradition.
With the vibrant swirl of ribbon skirts, the heartbeat of the drum, and the joy reflected in students’ faces, the event was filled with spirit and meaning. Following the dancing, attendees gathered for a traditional lunch of bannock and stew, prepared and served by volunteers.
“What I witnessed was amazing—the joy on the children’s faces, the way they embraced the dance,” said Gloria Half. “Even when we were ready to close, students were asking for more. That tells me we succeeded. We created joy and deepened knowledge. Many students already hold that knowledge and carry it with pride—they’re sharing it with others. Next year, we plan to expand and grow this even further.”
F.G. Miller Jr/Sr High and Elk Point Elementary School Round Dance
On June 6, F.G. Miller Jr/Sr High School collaborated with Elk Point Elementary School to host a powerful Round Dance with participation from students, staff, and community members.
The circle was led by a student drum group from Kehewin Cree Nation, introduced by Crystal John. Crystal teaches the cultural drumming program at Kehewin School and brought her students to share their songs and teachings—a meaningful example of cultural continuity and leadership.
The group was led by Terrance Gadwa, a former Elk Point Elementary student and presently in the final year of his Indian Teacher Education Program, whose return to the school made the day especially meaningful for him and the wider school community.
Students proudly wore ribbon skirts and experienced firsthand the teachings of the drum and the circle. The event reflected a strong commitment to cultural learning, connection, and respect. The participating schools and the Kehewin drum group expressed a shared hope to continue this meaningful work—coming together in the spirit of reconciliation and building a strong foundation for future generations.
St. Paul Education is deeply grateful to the drummers, singers, Knowledge Keepers, and community members who supported these events. Through participation in Indigenous traditions such as the Round Dance, students are invited into meaningful learning—grounded in respect, relationship, and reconciliation.
