Celebrating Philomene Stevens - Honouring Ancestral Knowledge in the Classroom

Stories hold a unique power to teach, connect, and inspire, and at Banff Elementary School (BES), students in Gr. 2 and 3 recently had the privilege of experiencing this firsthand. As part of a Language Arts and Social Studies unit on storytelling, they explored oral storytelling traditions and their role in transmitting cultural knowledge, history, and values. To deepen their understanding, BES’ Gr. 2 and 3 teachers,  Ralene Anderson, Erin Emro, Melissa Grant, and Amanda Horsley welcomed Knowledge Keepers Tracey Stevens and Cassandra Poucette to their classes to share their perspectives on why storytelling remains essential in Indigenous cultures.

Through their visit, Tracey and Cassandra helped students understand that storytelling is more than entertainment, rather it is a way to honour ancestors, preserve history, and strengthen identity. Stories carry the wisdom of past generations, reinforcing values of respect, responsibility, and resilience. Explaining that oral traditions are dynamic, passed down through generations with the guidance of Elders who ensure their teachings remain relevant while staying true to their original lessons.

To bring these ideas to life, the Knowledge Keepers shared two traditional Indigenous stories. The first was a trickster tale about Iktomi and the geese, which taught students about the importance of trust, intuition, and recognizing when something doesn’t seem right. The second story, about the sun and the moon, explored how different perspectives shape understanding and how respect for others allows for harmony. As students listened, they reflected on the deeper messages within each story, linking them to their own experiences. Gr. 2/3 teacher Ralene Anderson described the experience as a powerful connection between tradition and curriculum, reinforcing the idea that storytelling is a way to preserve history and deepen understanding.

The storytelling unit also included an opportunity to honour the memory of Knowledge Keeper Philomene Stevens – whose wisdom has left a lasting impact on the school division. After reading “Be a Good Ancestor” by Leona Prince, students discussed the life cycles of animals and humans, reflecting on the role of Elders and ancestors in shaping their lives. They reflect on the important lessons they have learned from family members, teachers, and even pets, sharing stories of kindness, resilience, and love. 

To bring their reflections to life, students created written and artistic pieces, which are now proudly displayed in BES’ Den. This visual tribute celebrated their learning, reinforcing the idea that storytelling is not only about remembering the past but also about shaping the future. “Philomene would have been proud of their insights,” said Indigenous Services Coordinator Nadine Dack-Doi. “Philomene encapsulated what it really meant to honour her ancestors and how to work together collaboratively to move Truth and Reconciliation forward,”

By listening, sharing, and creating, students are engaging with history in a way that is meaningful and lasting. Their voices, woven into the ongoing story of learning, will continue to carry these lessons forward.

Celebrating Philomene Stevens (May 7, 1953, - December 31, 2024) – Philomene was a cherished Stoney Nakoda Knowledge Keeper whose guidance deeply enriched the lives of students and staff at Canadian Rockies Public Schools. Her wisdom and dedication helped ensure that the traditions and values of the Stoney Nakoda people were authentically woven into learning experiences, fostering a sense of cultural pride and connection among the entire learning community. Philomene had a rare ability to connect with young people, encouraging them to recognize their strengths and embrace their heritage with confidence. Her teachings will continue to inspire CRPS students and staff for generations to come, a lasting legacy of love, resilience, and cultural preservation. Philomene’s light will be deeply missed, but her impact will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.