Carrier language class kicks off (fwd)

[phil cash cash]

Carrier language class kicks off

By Chris Shepherd
Sep 13 2006
http://www.caledoniacourier.com/portals-code/list.cgi?paper=11&cat=59&id=725804&more=

Using the language students of a new Carrier language program want to
master, Nak’azdli elder Catherine Coldwell blessed the first day of
classes.

“The prayer was to open [the students’s] minds and let the spirit into
their hearts so they can learn,” explained Catherine Coldwell, who’s
been informally teaching the language for years.

Coldwell is one of the key instructors in UNBC’s new three-year program
to train First Nations so they in turn can teach the Carrier language
and culture in the classroom.

For students and teachers alike, the new program, fulfills long-time
dream.

Francis Prince is one of the 27 students who’ll be studying in the
classroom at Kwah Hall. He’s taught children before, but he drew on his
skills in making drums and singing and admits he didn’t know enough to
teach more than that.

He’s excited about becoming a better teacher, but also because the
program will keep Carrier culture alive.

Nak’azdli Chief Leonard Thomas agrees. Thomas says the residential
schools, where thousands of First Nations were sent by the federal
government, damaged their culture and heritage.

“I think something like this will help pick up the pieces.”

That will happen because after three years, the students will be
certified to teach Carrier culture and language in B.C. schools.

They’ll also be able to continue on and earn a full teaching degree if
they want.

Learning Carrier will also connect the younger and older generations,
Coldwell says.

“There’s so much we want to tell [the youth.] They can’t grasp it in
English or another language.”