Circle Circle Every day you will hear the echo of drums as the elemetary students participate in "Circle". Circle is a cultural activity held every day in our small gym for kindergarten through sixth grade. Children who want to sing and drum are invited to join in a circle in the middle of the floor, while the rest of the children seat themselves along the walls. They sing many types of Northwest coastal songs such as welcoming songs, thank you songs, challenge dance songs, playful songs (one about a jump rope), traveling songs, potlatch songs and eating songs. Some songs even teach the children how to count, name the days of the week and the months in the Southern Puget Salish language.
THE FACTS: There are 26 elementary classes involved in Circle which are divided into two groups of 13 classes. Both groups include Kindergarten through 6th grade. Six classes of pre-school children as young as 3 years old also participate.
BENEFITS: Circle improves self-esteem, pride and self-identity for children. Circle promotes parental involvement because some parents help make shawls, drums and outfits for students. |
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After two
Northwest Coastal songs are sung, the children in
"Circle" exit and the powwow drum group begin
to sing. Everyone is welcome to join in the dancing, no
outfits required. Sometimes guests speakers are invited
to talk to the children to help them learn about respect
for their elders, parents and their culture. 
Every last Friday of the month,
Circle is extended to one hour and a special session is
held in preparation for participation in powwow's in the
area.. Everyone is encouraged to dress in their Powwow or
traditional outfits and dance.