Portage College proudly hosted its 20th Annual Round Dance on March 7 at the Lac La Biche campus. This year's event, attended by 500 school children from the region, marked a significant milestone in the college's commitment to promoting Indigenous culture and education.

Among the attendees were students from Light of Christ Catholic School, Kikino, Heart Lake, Aurora Middle School, J.A Williams High School, Goodfish Lake, and Amisk School.

The Round Dance provided a unique educational experience for hundreds of school-aged children between grades 5 and 12, offering them the opportunity to learn about Indigenous culture and ceremonies firsthand.

500 students from Lac La Biche schools, alongside Portage College staff, faculty, and students, joined in the enriching Educational Round Dance on March 7th.

In addition to students, the event also welcomed Portage College students and staff, as well as distinguished guests including Lac La Biche County Council, RCMP, Lac La Biche Peace Officers, Golden Sands Senior Home, Lacalta Lodge, and the Friendship Centre.

Robert Rayko, Cultural Facilitator at Portage College, expressed his gratitude for hosting the Educational Round Dance, stating, "Hosting the Educational Round Dance for the grades 5-12 to give them the opportunity to learn a little about our Cree Culture and experience a part of our Culture is an honour that we get to be a part of as they learn from a Pipe Carrier the drummers and Elders that share their teachings with the children and staff from grades 5-12, and we as a College get to honour the children with a day set for them."

The event featured teachings from a Pipe Carrier, drummers, and Elders, providing students and staff with valuable insights into Indigenous traditions and customs.

The day was dedicated to honouring and celebrating the children's participation in learning and appreciating Indigenous culture. Participants were able to experience the lighting of the traditional pipe and pipe ceremony, partake in the feast, engage in smudging, and witness different styles of song and dance.

Each year the college provides the opportunity to nominate someone to be honoured for the blanket ceremony. This year three people were honoured. Allan Robertson, Dean of the Business Department at Portage College was nominated for his inspiration and for going the extra mile for students and colleagues. Robert Rayko, Indigenous Cultural Facilitator at Portage College was nominated for bringing the Round Dance to Portage College twenty years ago, and for his many contributions over the years towards the successful hosting of many Indigenous ceremonies for students, staff, and community. Kaylee Weigelt has been nominated for her significant impact on the college. A student for 4 years at the College, Kaylee has been a member of the President’s Indigenous Advisory Committee, Students’ Association, and is currently the Board of Governors student member. Thank you to all three honourees.

Allan Robertson, Dean of the Business Department, recognized for his dedication to students and colleagues. Robert Rayko, Indigenous Cultural Facilitator, honored for his pivotal role in bringing the Round Dance to Portage College. And Kaylee Weigelt, a remarkable student leader making a significant impact on our community. Left to Right: Robert Rayko, Allan Robertson, Kaylee Weigelt.

Portage College is thankful to all attendees and contributors for making the 20th Annual Round Dance a resounding success. This event highlights the college's ongoing commitment to promoting intercultural understanding and appreciation for Indigenous culture within the region.

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