qaymɩxʷqɛnəmšt – we will all speak our language
A language-first learning space for Tla’amin children
The t̓išosəm ʔayʔaǰuθəm Immersion Program, qaymɩxʷqɛnəmšt, supports young learners to hear, speak, and understand ʔayʔaǰuθəm through daily, immersive experience.
This program is built for Tla’amin children with ʔayʔaǰuθəm-speaking ancestry but extends to all indigenous students with other ancestral backgrounds. If space allows, enrolment is opened further beyond that. Families can choose to enrol in the two full days of learning each week, or have their child remain at their home school full-time.
What We Do
Full language immersion (oral)
Inside the learning space, ʔayʔaǰuθəm is the only language spoken.
huks məmaɬaqɛnəm — no English.
While the primary focus of the program is on oral language acquisition while introducing basic orthography in age-appropriate ways.
Language through experience
Learning happens through:
- Play-based activities
- Outdoor learning
- Movement and music
- Repetition and daily use
- Community-based experiences
The focus is on building fluency and bringing language into everyday life.
Elders in the classroom
Elders are present in the program, sharing language, knowledge, and guidance alongside the teaching team.
Who This is For
- Tla’amin children with ʔayʔaǰuθəm-speaking ancestry
- Kindergarten and Grade 1 learners. *Preschool students participate in some programming and activities but are not enrolled in a full immersion program.
- Families who want their children to grow up hearing and speaking the language
Program Structure
- Maximum 20 students per class
- Two full days
- Shared lunch time for both classes
The teaching team and language staff also meet regularly to plan, strengthen their own language use, and build curriculum together.
Teaching Team
Led by:
- Karina Peters, Certified Teacher
- Koosen Pielle, Instructor
- Alyssa Louie, Instructor Apprentice
Supported by the broader Tla’amin language team and Elders.
Partnership
This program is co-supported and administered by:
- Tla’amin Nation Education Department
- qathet School District 47
What is Immersion?
Immersion means learning by being surrounded by the language.
In this program:
- ʔayʔaǰuθəm is spoken at all times in the learning space
- Students learn by hearing, repeating, and using the language
- Language is connected to actions, place, and daily life
The goal is confidence, understanding, and real-world use of the language.
How to Enroll
Families interested in the qaymɩχʷqɛnəmšt Program can contact the Tla’amin Nation Education Department or qathet School District 47 to learn more about the program, confirm eligibility, and begin the registration process.
Space is limited, and placement will be confirmed with families based on program eligibility, available space, and the child’s grade level.