Photo: Learning IQ in Nunavut schools

Students, staff members and others at Alookie Elementary School in Pangnirtung make a sealskin kamik circle in the school gym Jan. 28 at a seal celebration event following a seal theme at the school that lasted more than two weeks. Alookie principal Lena Metuq explained how the entire school took part in numerous activities pertaining to seal that began with elders carving up four donated seals at the school. Students learned the different parts of the seal from elders and also how to clean, dry and soften sealskin so it can be sewn into garments. They also watched a film on the history of Pangnirtung, Metuq said, so students can understand the town’s evolution. The school’s seal unit ended with a feast where students, staff and community members were invited to show off their sealskin clothing. (PHOTO BY DAVID KILABUK)