Students Learn Ice Fishing at Prince Arthur’s Landing
Today at Prince Arthur’s Landing, students from École Gron Morgan Public School, Algonquin Avenue Public School, and Hammarskjold High School’s KZ Lodge gathered to ice fish at one of Thunder Bay’s most attractive landmarks.
The pond at the War Memorial Park was recently stocked with several hundred fish by the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry (MNDMNRF) for last month’s Family Day celebrations. Hundreds of fish remained uncaught after the statutory holiday, providing this exceptional opportunity for students.
Many students were experienced in the winter sport, having been closely raised with the seasonal family tradition, and indulged in their ability. Students new to the hobby enjoyed trying their hand at securing artificial bait and reeling.
“I haven’t been ice fishing since I was really young, so to be able to get this opportunity to do it again is really fun and I’m really enjoying it,” said Joanne Nodin, student at Hammarskjold High School.
Any caught fish, each ranging from 4 to 7 pounds, would lead to the day’s subsequent activities of filleting and cooking. Hammarskjold High School transported their fire pit to supply the event with cooking means and to engage the students in an onsite traditional ceremony led by Tanya Moses of the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre. Lakehead Public Schools regularly provides students with exposure to experiential and land-based learning and believes that significant learning doesn’t only take place inside the classroom.
“When you talk to kids or when they’ve finished a school year or even a school career, it’s pretty much these events that are the ones they always talk about and that have a huge impact. I think in the difficult times we’ve had, being together outdoors in a really safe environment and having fun and learning at the same time is a really important way to build on our education,” said Ellen Chambers, chair of Lakehead District School Board.
Consistent with all Lakehead Public Schools field trips, onsite student safety was the top priority. Officers with the MNDMNRF presented ice safety instruction and Thunder Bay Fire Rescue provided fire safety education.
“It’s great to see that everybody here is having a good time, and we’re here to make sure everybody’s safe. It’s awesome from a prevention standpoint. We’re going to take a little time with the kids and teach them some fire safety tips and what to do in case of emergency,” said Kyle Solomon, firefighter with Thunder Bay Fire Rescue.
Lakehead Public Schools thanks the Thunder Bay Police Service and the officers of their Community Inclusion Team, a valued partner and important member of our school community, for being present and taking part in today’s activities. Our students continuously benefit from the exemplary role models of all our community partners who generously commit their time and resources to provide the youth of our area with outstanding knowledge and skills to hold and share with their families.