kisêwâtisiwin School Profile

kisêwâtisiwin (ki se wât si win) is a Cree word that can be translated into English as the act of being kind.

The new name, which replaces Dan Knott, was chosen by an Indigenous naming committee after consultation with the school community. It was gifted to the school to celebrate the transition away from its former namesake to one that reflects the community’s values of positivity and connection.

A school name is the highest honour Edmonton Public Schools can give. By choosing a word that celebrates goodness, community and inclusivity, Edmonton Public Schools hopes this renaming signifies a kinder path forward for our Division and city.

The land where kisêwâtisiwin is located has a rich Indigenous history. It was a traditional gathering space to many First Nations, Métis and Inuit for everything from travel to trading, hunting and ceremony, and was once the Papaschase Cree reserve. While the area now looks very different than it did before the development of Mill Woods, it is still a gathering space for families of all ethnicities and backgrounds. It is a beautifully diverse community that holds space for many languages, cultures, foods and customs.

kisêwâtisiwin, or kindness, is a universal value upheld and revered by all people. No matter the language it is written or spoken in, the idea of treating people, animals and the environment with kindness bonds us together. Even before the name was chosen, the school’s motto of Do Nice Be Kind had long been featured throughout the building. In fact, kindness was a recurring theme during the renaming process. It was often the first word used by students when asked about their school. Parents and neighbours described the community as a diverse space that welcomes all people. Teachers and school staff spoke of a collaborative and supportive environment, and the naming committee reflected on the warmth and kindness they encountered in the halls. After nearly two years of planning, meetings, learnings and school tours, it became clear that kisêwâtisiwin was the name the school had been searching for.