RANKIN INLET - Culture Day is proving itself to be a major hit among young students at Leo Ussak Elementary School in Rankin Inlet.

Elder Ollie Ittinuar displays the certificate and gift he received from Cory Qattalik on behalf of Leo Ussak Elementary School in Rankin Inlet this past week for his years of service to the Canadian Rangers. - photo courtesy of Tyrone Power

The school's cultural committee decided to hold one Culture Day a month for the students, with each one focusing on different cultural aspects or traditional skills.

A number of elders will be invited to take part in the program throughout the school year.

Principal Tyrone Power said the students loved taking part in Culture Day this past week.

He said the students were divided into different groups and the five visiting elders spent time with each group.

"We also brought in a few members of our very talented local square-dancing group and that was very popular with the kids, as well," said Power.

"Among the topics the elders covered this month were the drum and drum dancing, skin preparation, and the traditional roles of boys and girls and the responsibilities they had."

Another highlight of the day was the participation of Canadian Ranger and well-known elder Ollie Ittinuar.

Ittinuar was recognized by the Governor General for his long service to the Canadian Rangers earlier this year.

Power said the students took great pride in presenting Ittinuar with an award of their own.

"Ollie spent the day telling the students Ranger stories and it was a big hit.

"Once all the activities were completed, we held an elder's tea in the school gym for the elders to sit down and relax with a little tea, maktaaq and bannock.

"We also had snacks for the kids and, once everyone had a bit to eat, we presented the elders with certificates of appreciation for coming in.

"We made a special presentation to Ollie for his work with the Rangers, and gave him a frosted-glass inukshuk as a present from the school to acknowledge the national recognition he received."

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