Inuvik (May 20/05) - Thanks to the enthusiasm of Mr. Dayman's Grade 4 class, the recent Regional Historic Fair in Inuvik was able to proceed with the three projects submitted by those students.

From left to right Shayna Greenough, Katrina Koe and Shayna Omilgoituk earned third place for their project about Aulavik National Park. The group was also presented with the Hon. Laurier L. LaPierre O.C. Medal.

Of course, this meant the class locked up first, second and third place, but it in no way diminishes their accomplishments.

Students who co-operated on the Inuvialuit project also earned an RBC Foundation Award for celebration of Aboriginal Heritage.

The other two projects - one on Wood Buffalo National Park and the other on Aulavik National Park - each picked up an Hon. Laurier L. LaPierre O.C. Medal.

"It was a great opportunity for the kids to do some research and learn about the region," said Dayman.

Six students from the class were selected to go to Yellowknife, May 5, 6 and 7, to join 30 others at the Northwest Territories Historic Fair.

For Ryan Ballas-Kuzman, one of those who travelled to Yellowknife, his group's project about the Inuvialuit was of particular significance.

"We did it because we are really interested in learning about our culture," he said.

Shayna Greenough said her group's project about Aulavik National Park was a great learning experience.

"I didn't really know a lot about Aulavik Park and I wanted a challenge."

For the six students who visited Yellowknife, the learning continued with a tour of the Legislative Assembly and the small community of Dettah.

"In Dettah we drum danced and our guide taught us handgames," recalled Skye Day-MacLeod of the adventure.

"He told us that we always have to be honest because the first time you lie, nobody will trust you anymore," added Ballas-Kuzman.

As for the visit to the political centre of the NWT, the students agreed that the Legislative Assembly's steel and glass majesty was "Pretty cool."