Lakalzap Elementary School Hosts Explorations Summer Camp

With $5,420 in Explorations funding, Lakalzap Elementary School offered an arts camp to three children ranging in age from 12 to 17 in the summer of 2005. The two-week 'Carving Program' gave attendees a chance to carve their own plaque. Varying degrees of skill level meant more experienced carvers mentored the beginners. The village government sponsored one student worker to help with the program. All those who took part found excitement in watching their masterpieces take shape over the two-week camp. The children had not received any Nisga'a art classes prior to this. The exposure enhanced the Nisga'a culture, fostering pride in the village's youth.

Explorations provided students in kindergarten to Grade 7 with opportunities to explore arts, sport and recreation in summer camp settings. The program, which ran from 2005-2008, served students who were otherwise unable to attend summer camps due to location, local resources or financial limitations. Explorations was supported by the Province of British Columbia.