The mosaic hanging in Kelliher School is more than a piece of art. It reflects students' knowledge about treaties and helps bridge the gap between First Nations and non-First Nations people in the community.

Forty percent of the school's students come from the nearby Muskowekwan First Nation. When teacher Jaret Ross received an e-mail about the TreatySmarts grant, he thought it would be a great way for students to learn about each other's history.

And he was right.

"It has made students more aware of the treaties, living on reserves, and even residential schools," says Ross.

Grades 7-12 students learned about the treaties in the classroom, and First Nations visual artist Ray Keighley taught artistic techniques related to the mosaic tile project. Participation went beyond the school itself, with parents and guardians learning alongside their children, and community members paying for supplies.

Students contributed their visions for what they wanted the mosaic to look like. Once the design was established, each painted a tile that became part of the final mural.

"Kelliher School now has a beautiful piece of artwork that will remain here for as long as the school does!" Ross says.

TreatySmarts is a program of ArtsSmarts, offered through a partnership among the Saskatchewan Arts Board, SaskCulture Inc., through funding from the Saskatchewan Lotteries Trust Fund for Sport, Culture and Recreation, and the Ministry of Education. ArtsSmarts Saskatchewan belongs to a national network of ArtsSmarts programs across the country.

Photos: Jaret Ross and Laurel Rugland