Remi Poliquin
Counsel
Traditions Take Center Stage at Dorval Elementary Carnival
by Dan Mullins
Across the snowy grounds of Dorval Elementary, the rhythmic sounds of traditional song filled the air as students gathered for a vibrant celebration of winter.
This year’s Carnival Week offered more than just a break from the classroom; it served as an immersive journey into the Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) and Québecois cultures, blending seasonal festivities with deep-rooted local traditions.
The event was the result of a collaborative effort by the school’s Carnival organizing committee, which included staff members like Grade 6 teacher Danielle Lustgarten. Watching the students engage with the outdoor activities, Lustgarten remarked, “They’re having a great time… they’re really enjoying it.”
Students rotated through the grounds in classroom groups, ensuring everyone experienced the six diverse stations:
- Station 1: Tire sur la neige: A classic winter treat where heated maple syrup was poured over snow and rolled onto sticks.
- Station 2: Ski Buddies: A team-building race where pairs synchronized their movements on wooden skis.
- Station 3: Catch Prey Blindfold Game: A traditional Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) game challenging students to navigate and identify “prey” using only their sense of hearing.
- Station 4: Tree Tapping Workshop: An educational session on traditional sap harvesting and forest stewardship.
- Station 5: Goose Hunting/Make the Stick Jump: A traditional Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot) game of throwing accuracy used traditionally to sharpen skills for hunting small game.
- Station 6: Sled Pull: A physical activity developing coordination and balance as students took turns pulling one another through the snow.
At the “Tire sur la neige” station, a presenter named Ti-Jean kept spirits high with humorous storytelling about the adventures of his grandfather, delivered in a traditional Québécois singing mode. The station became a hub of energy as students participated in a dance-off; those who showed the most rhythm were rewarded with a second helping of the sweet maple treat.
A central focus was the Tree Tapping Workshop, led by Dave McComber, a visitor from the Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) people of Kahnawà:ke. McComber shared the significance of the “Watha”—the Kanien’kéha (the Mohawk language) word for maple tree—and emphasized a deep respect for nature. He explained that traditional practices involve taking only what is needed and treating trees with gratitude. Students learned that it takes roughly 40 gallons of sap to produce just one gallon of syrup, a lesson in both patience and environmental care.
The spirit of cooperation was evident throughout the morning as students engaged in activities rooted in teamwork and sensory awareness. Joining in the rotations were Director General Dr. Cindy Finn and Deborah Dixon, Director of Schools, who both participated alongside students at several stations.
Principal France Poirier reflected on the day’s significance for the Lester B. Pearson School Board community. “It’s about bringing us together and celebrating our community,” she noted.
