Canyon Student Receives Honouring Spirit Award

"Deacon is at the heart of everything we do within our cultural program," says Aleksander Borucki, Success Coach at Canyon School in Pincher Creek. "His contributions to our school community are immeasurable."

Grade 6 student Deacon Yellowhorn is the recipient of the Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) Honouring Spirit: Indigenous Student Award. He was nominated by Borucki for his outstanding leadership and authentic passion for his Blackfoot cultural heritage. 

The Honouring Spirit: Indigenous Student Award recognizes First Nations, Métis or Inuit students who model strength and commitment in the pursuit of their personal education paths. Each year 12 students are selected out of more than 200 Kindergarten to Grade 12 nominees, for exemplifying remarkable leadership, courage, and dedication to their cultures and education. Yellowhorn and the other award recipients were recognized at an awards ceremony in Edmonton on April 14, 2025.

"Last year, Deacon was a key student in launching our 'Blackfoot Word of the Week' initiative," says Borucki. "He recruited student volunteers, coached them in proper pronunciation, and encouraged students to have confidence in not only Blackfoot pronunciation but public speaking skills as well." 

Yellowhorn also leads the school's drumming circle, bringing invaluable expertise and a willingness to mentor younger students. He often takes on the role of Canyon School's official greeter for visiting Elders and Knowledge Keepers, and has served as a technical support person, participant, and MC during school assemblies.

Canyon School Principal Jessica Ames feels Yellowhorn is very deserving of the Honouring Spirit Award. "Deacon is always willing to make positive contributions to our school. He is a respectful and mature learner who is dedicated to his interests and follows through on his commitments. Canyon School is very fortunate to have him!"

Visit the ASBA Honouring Spirit 2025 awards ceremony website for more information.

Congratulations to Deacon Yellowhorn on receiving the Honouring Spirit: Indigenous Student Award.

Photos: Courtesy of ASBA

ASBA Honouring Spirit Awards 2025