Darrell Greer
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Oct 12/05) - You couldn't blame students at Leo Ussak elementary school in Rankin Inlet for wording their mixes up earlier this month.

The students were taking part in a special Backwards/Inukshuk Day at the school, and not knowing if you were coming or going was part of the program.

Grade 2 students Suzanne Nattar and Jolene Ayaruaq, right, display the efforts of their work during Backwards/Inukshuk Day at Leo Ussak elementary school in Rankin Inlet earlier this month. - Darrell Greer/NNSL photo

School principal Harold Goobie said the special day was only one of a variety of activities held throughout the year. He said the activities are planned by a spirit committee comprised of educators at the school.

The activities are designed for the promotion of school spirit, creating cultural awareness, promoting staff-student interaction and involvement, and, from time to time, bringing parents to the school for an afternoon of fun.

"These days are held once or twice a month, including a special afternoon dedicated to elders coming into the school to tell stories, teach the students a bit about Inuit culture and tradition and do drum-dancing exhibitions," said Goobie.

"These activities are a big hit with the kids and they really look forward to them.

"Not only do they learn about Inuit culture and tradition, but the program also provides them with a bit of a break from the hum drum of the everyday schedule here at the school." The special events put fun back into learning for the youthful students.

Goobie said teachers notice the difference the days make in developing and increasing a sense of school spirit among students and staff.

He said every class in the school - from kindergarten to Grade 4 - participates in the events.

"Sometimes you'll see variations. During Inukshuk Day they may use styrofoam or even marshmallows rather than real rocks.

"But every student seems to enjoy taking part, whatever the theme of the day may be.

"There's nobody left out, regardless of their ability in any certain category."

Simon Bruce Jr., Grade 2, enjoyed seeing people walk around the school with their T-shirts and hockey jerseys on backwards. He was also proud to build his own tiny Inukshuk.

"I got a little help from my teacher, but I think it looks OK," said Bruce. "It was a lot of fun to make."