In 2012, the Parent Legacy Team at Collingwood School’s Wentworth campus supported the vision to honour Indigenous knowledge and principles through the carving of the Wentworth Welcome Pole. This initiative featured Klatle Bhi, a renowned Squamish carver and storyteller, best known for carving the Vancouver 2010 Olympic welcome pole. Following Squamish protocols, Klatle Bhi personally found and selected the red cedar from Vancouver Island.

Over a six-month period, Klatle Bhi became Wentworth’s artist-in-residence and knowledge teacher. During this time, the school was filled with the rich smell of red cedar as he carved the totem, sharing stories and songs that brought the First Peoples Principles of Learning to life.

The Welcome Pole project aimed to promote understanding and respect for First Peoples’ cultures among students and staff, and created a lasting symbol of the school’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation.

The community had the opportunity to contribute to the actual carving of the pole, learned traditional carving techniques and the stories behind the Eagle - ‘Sp'áḵw'us’ in Squamish language. The totem transcended into all aspects of Wentworth, including art classes, student writing, reflections, social studies projects, and social-emotional learning.

The Welcome Pole was raised following local Squamish protocols and ceremony and the story is retold to the Wentworth community at the beginning of each school year as part of the opening of school rituals. Sp'áḵw'us, is the master of the skies, soars to great heights and has great eyesight. It reminds us to lead with honour, honesty, and vision.