MISSION, BC – February 14, 2025 – The Fraser Valley Métis Association (FVMA) proudly celebrated the grand opening of tsi’semolet | Nutr raasin aahkikiwaq | Growing Roots Early Learning and Child Care at West Heights Elementary School in Mission. This milestone marks a significant step in providing culturally rooted early learning for children, fostering a strong sense of identity, language, and tradition from a young age.
The ceremony began in a good way with a heartfelt welcome from Elder Phil Sherwood of Leq’á:mel First Nation, grounding the gathering in respect and tradition. Aaron Pete (Chawathil First Nation Councillor, Law Graduate, and Host of Bigger Than Me Podcast) and Vivian Searwar (Mission Public School District Principal of Indigenous Education) officially opened the event, setting an inspiring tone for celebration.
We also take this moment to respectfully acknowledge that tsi’semolet | Nutr raasin aahkikiwaq | Growing Roots Early Learning and Child Care operates on the unsurrendered, traditional, and ancestral lands of the Leq’á:mel, Semá:th, Máthxwi, Sq’éwlets, and Qwó:ltl’el First Nations. These Nations have been the caretakers of this land since time immemorial, and we honour their enduring presence and commitment to the well-being of future generations.
FVMA’s Community-Elect Director Volunteers Pixie Wells and Kelly Penner then shared the Michif song: Wesaketewenowuk (Roots Growing Up), a project in 20219 from the inaugural Indigenous Storyteller Edition, about revitalizing the Métis language of Michif. This song was collaboratively created by Dr. Judy Iseke, Elder Tom McCallum and Singer Song Keeper Andrea Menard in 2019 and perfect for honouring Métis heritage and the children who will be nurtured in this space.
The success of this initiative would not have been possible without the tireless support of many, specifically Siwal Si’wes, the Indigenous Education Department of School District 75 (Mission). Their dedication to Indigenous education and cultural inclusion has helped create a space where children can thrive in a supportive, community-driven environment.
The event was honoured by the presence of distinguished guests, whose support has been invaluable to this project:
Debra Fischer – MNBC Minister Region 4 Director, Minister of Children and Families, and Associate Minister of Elders Elder Maurice Lenglet – MNBC & FVMA Citizen and Wood Crafter & builder of the Metis Red River Cart replica donated to Siwal Si’wes
Oshâwisôniyâwô Mik’sôwak (He is Golden Eagle) / UnKie Pixie Wells – FVMA Community-Elect President MNBC Minister Allan Lavallee – Region 2 Director, Associate Minister of Children and Families, and Associate Minister of Elders Gioia Stokovac – Senior Program Development Officer, Indigenous Programs, Service Canada Christina Grigorenko – Senior Policy Analyst, Employment and Social Development Canada Reann Gasper – MLA for Abbotsford-Mission Adam Calvert – Métis Family Services (MFS) Representative Tracy Loffler – Mission Public School Board Chair Jordan Klassen and Tricia Anderson – Former & Current Principal
and Everyone who shared their support joining us in this amazing journey along the way, we raise our hands high with gratitude 
The event was further enriched by an interactive Métis Le Cheuyer (music spoon) activity, hosted by FVMA’s Community-elect Director Volunteers Pixie Wells and Kelly Penner, engaging attendees in a lively, hands-on cultural experience.
To close the event in a good way with delicious food from the Bannock Queen Bakery, ensuring Elders were served first, reinforcing the Métis values of respect and community care.
A special Maarsii (thank you) to all who contributed to this incredible milestone. This is more than just a daycare—it is a place where our young ones will grow connected to their heritage, supported by community, and nurtured in a culturally rich environment.
